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On Davis Row
Nearing the end of a suspended jail sentence should unlock a brighter future for CJ Davis, only the chip on his shoulder is as hard to shift as his bad reputation. Born into a family of career criminals who live down Davis Road, an address the cops have dubbed Davis Row, his name alone is like a rap sheet that makes optimism impossible.
Brand-new parole officer Noah Huxley is determined to see the good in men like CJ. After all, he knows firsthand that bad things can happen to good people. His colleagues mock his doe-eyed optimism, but Noah soon sees CJ's bad attitude and bravado are weapons he uses to keep people at a distance.
Both men know one simple mistake can change a life forever. At first glance, they might seem to be polar opposites. Yet underneath, they're not that different at all.
Brand-new parole officer Noah Huxley is determined to see the good in men like CJ. After all, he knows firsthand that bad things can happen to good people. His colleagues mock his doe-eyed optimism, but Noah soon sees CJ's bad attitude and bravado are weapons he uses to keep people at a distance.
Both men know one simple mistake can change a life forever. At first glance, they might seem to be polar opposites. Yet underneath, they're not that different at all.
366 pages, Paperback
First published November 25, 2017
305 people are currently reading
1918 people want to read
About the author
N.R. Walker
132 books5,239 followersAuthor also writes as A. Voyeur
N.R. Walker is an Australian author, who loves her genre of gay romance. She loves writing and spends far too much time doing it, but wouldn't have it any other way.
She is many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer. She has pretty, pretty boys who she gives them life with words.
She likes it when they do dirty, dirty things...but likes it even more when they fall in love. She used to think having people in her head talking to her was weird, until one day she happened across other writers who told her it was normal.
She’s been writing ever since...
https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAu...
N.R. Walker is an Australian author, who loves her genre of gay romance. She loves writing and spends far too much time doing it, but wouldn't have it any other way.
She is many things; a mother, a wife, a sister, a writer. She has pretty, pretty boys who she gives them life with words.
She likes it when they do dirty, dirty things...but likes it even more when they fall in love. She used to think having people in her head talking to her was weird, until one day she happened across other writers who told her it was normal.
She’s been writing ever since...
https://www.facebook.com/N.R.WalkerAu...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 586 reviews
May 23, 2022
“Well, get used to it. Because I care about you. And it’s about time the rest of the world saw the real CJ Davis.”
Although I haven’t read every book by this author (yet), I don’t doubt this is one of her most slow-burn books out there, as well as one of her angstiest (compared to the rest of her work, at least). Full of second-chances, hope, a lot of first times, and realness, On Davis Row proves to show N.R. Walker’s authenticity in her diverse writing. Known for her fluff, cute, and sweet, low-angst stories, I was surprised to see that she takes on a strong theme like incarceration here.
I’d also like to mention some trigger warnings for child neglect, domestic violence, and substance abuse.
While it may seem like N.R. Walker is one of my favorite authors, most of the books I’ve read from her have been 3-stars. Although don’t get me wrong, I still love NRW’s books and can count on her to deliver sweet stories when I’m in need of one. The Weight of It All, Galaxies and Oceans, Dearest Milton James, the Missing Pieces trilogy, and Exchange of Hearts are my favorites and the only ones I’ve rated 4 stars. I even told one of my closest and best friends that I haven’t fully enjoyed some of the books I’ve read from her (Upside Down and Code Red, more specifically), and it was quite a surprise for her. I can see why though—a lot of my friends know my love for fluff and sweet books with zero drama or low-angst, so even I’ve been shocked when I didn’t have the best reading experience reading exactly that from the queen of fluff herself. But, On Davis Row, despite not being a fluffy read, proved to me why I like the balance–fluff and wholesome to distract me from my hectic schedule, and angst to show me that life and love is hard but beautiful. I can’t say if this has mixed reviews from my friends, but I’m pleased to say I enjoyed almost every second I spent reading it, despite how I was a little hesitant at first because I wasn’t fully immersed.
Walker takes on a different theme here, and one I don’t think is written on enough: incarceration. With his suspended jail sentence almost coming to an end, CJ Davis is trying his best to continue moving forward. He attends his required meetings, takes care of his pops, stays out of trouble, and makes the most he can of work. But with him he carries an unwanted bad reputation due to his family of criminals, which causes people to think the worst of him. But when his case file is assigned to his new and young parole officer, CJ wasn’t expecting for him to care so much. New to town, young, and new to the job, Noah Huxley is a parole officer who hopes to make a change. When he’s assigned the case of CJ Davis, he isn’t surprised to see the chip on his shoulder, considering everything he’s been through. But through CJ’s hard exterior hides a man who wants to be loved and taken care of. Noah makes it a goal to show CJ he cares about him, and no matter where he hopes their new friendship takes him, Noah isn’t giving up on showing CJ his second chance.
I have to say that the first thing I appreciated from this the most is how Walker approached the message of the story. She uses a common theme in many individuals who are put in jail facilities despite being innocent, all because of misunderstood situations or reputations. In this case, CJ is a misunderstood character. With a father and his brothers locked up for different reasonings ranging from violence, assault, and theft, CJ had a rough childhood. Growing up without love and acceptance, his childhood was full of violence, neglect, and alcoholism. Adding on to that, CJ is also illiterate. He wasn’t able to make it past the seventh grade, and it takes him until his 20s to begin learning again. I liked this approach being used because it showed how common it is for people to be misunderstood, as well as situations, and taking away the freedom they had. In my opinion, the author went on to show how much guilt is placed on individuals who shouldn’t be feeling that way. It shows how much the “justice system” is lacking.
See, the reason why CJ was put on probation was because he was caught taking drugs. Specifically, he was caught with enough ingredients to cook methamphetamine. Yet, as we learn about why CJ did it, it turns out he broke into a chemist to get medication for his pops. The reason he got everything he got was because all the labels looked at the same. In his defense, he couldn’t tell them apart because he can’t read, so he took what he could get without knowing what they were. CJ’s story is ignored because of who he is: a Davis. So, with the bad reputation he already has due to his family, assumptions are made about him. Adding on to that, because he was caught breaking into a chemist, the assumption that he was/is a drug addict is also placed. Therefore, without really knowing him or trying to know him, people judge him without actually knowing him, his story, and everything he’s gone through. In other words, a book is judged by its cover.
“They see my beat-up face and assume I’m some troublemaker. But I don’t do nothin’ wrong. I try, every day, to be a good person. To help out and take care of Pops, ya know? I don’t ask for nothin’. I don’t have anything and I don’t blame the world for that. I don’t think nobody owes me a goddamn thing. I’m just trying to get through each fucking day.”
It’s so easy to love Walker’s characters, as far as I’ve seen. Even with the books I haven’t entirely enjoyed or loved, I remember how attached I can be to some of her characters. They always have their own characteristics that make them shine through. Both CJ and Noah had their own individualistic personality that I couldn’t help but root for both, as a couple and individuals. CJ and his grumpiness as he tries his best to prove the world wrong about him. Besides his pops and his boss, he’s lonely. He’s isolated and has no hope of people seeing him for who he really is. And then there’s Noah and his optimistic self. He wants to show CJ that there is more in life and prove to him there are people who love him. While he’s new to town, it’s not difficult for him to blend in, make new connections, and have a new start. The two are extremely different in backgrounds, family histories, and personalities, but after a couple clashes, the two start finding light in each other’s dark tunnels.
Yet, while I loved these two, I can’t help but feel like the winning point here was the romance (which, to be fair, for a romance novel is usually the goal, but characters being lovable is always a win). I always mention how much I adore slow-burn romance that shows the tension, longing, and pining of the characters simply because it shows the development of the feelings the characters start developing. Where steam is lacking here, the emotional aspect of the two replaces it, and you won’t hear me complaining about it. It’s definitely a hurt/comfort book, and it’s seen in every interaction CJ and Noah have. I can’t say how many times my heart broke for CJ, and I can’t say how much appreciation I had for Noah. In between these scenes, the two were like a puzzle–every interaction was leading towards their growth that filled in a hole. With CJ being the hurting character and Noah being the comforting one, there are a lot of gaps they fill in. Like CJ going out of his way to help CJ getting his license; giving him an old phone and teaching him how to call and text; showing him the comfort of hugs; trying to put himself in his shoes; being extremely patient with how CJ struggled to read and write; constantly reminding him that he shouldn’t be ashamed for his struggles.
“Because ain’t no one believed in me before now.”
The two were friends first, and the friendship Noah showed CJ he wanted felt progressed in such a natural way. I thought their attraction towards each other started off just like any crush/attraction starts off, and even appreciated how the two didn’t make a move towards the other very early on. What made it more believable for me was how CJ didn’t trust Noah easily. His grumpiness was extremely visible in how little he really cared. What added to the slow-burn was the rule Noah put for the both of them, and that was that he would kiss CJ in three weeks (because CJ’s sentence was over in three weeks). Even though he admitted this when he was drunk, he didn’t take back his words or regret what he said. Instead, he reaffirmed them. A couple days had passed between the two that caused the attraction to grow. In between these scenes, the two have a few friendly and domestic moments that make their chemistry grow. Every interaction they had after Noah’s confession was simply adorable. I loved seeing how Noah started becoming a sort of home for CJ, even though it also broke my heart. As someone who absolutely loves hugs (physical touch is one of my love languages), I can’t imagine how CJ felt when Noah started embracing him. My heart simply broke for him. He was not used to any sort of physical affection that when Noah first started touching him, whether it was hugging or holding hands, CJ was weirded out and felt strange. I don’t doubt that Noah would be understanding if they were things CJ didn’t like, but he started becoming used to it that he found it so comforting. How he would simply let go of everything and let himself be held was honestly agonizing. In all honesty, I could feel the emotions he started going through as he felt this new kindness.
Without pulling away, I said, “I’ve wanted to hug you for a while.”
Still, with his arms by his sides, he asked, “Why?”
“Because sometimes people hug as a way of saying things are gonna be okay.”
The only complaint about this is the small hypocrisy it felt like Noah had when he read CJ’s entire case file and found out how and why he was arrested. I was on CJ’s side during this time, simply because I couldn’t understand how and why Noah was so upset at finding out about the possibility that CJ was a drug addict. While it wasn’t the case, if it were true, I didn’t understand how and why Noah was upset when his job is literally related to that. It makes me wonder how different the relationship would have been if CJ were a drug addict or had a history of using drugs. Would Noah treat him differently? Would he still have gone out of his way to help him? Would he still find all the resources he did and help CJ, as a friend and as his parole office? If CJ did have a history with drugs and was lying to Noah, I can’t say I would blame him, mostly because that would be his past and it would be one he is trying to move from. It seemed to me like Noah’s sympathy towards CJ was only there if CJ were innocent. So if CJ weren’t as innocent as Noah thought he was, what would change? Would Noah have a different picture of him overall?
But of course, true N.R. Walker style, there was no miscommunication or unnecessary drama. Both CJ and Noah handled this in a mature and understanding way.
Aside from that, I loved everything about this. Despite the niggle being something that made me ponder on the thoughts I began to have, it didn’t falter my enjoyment and the mood of the book too much not only because none of it was true, but also because the relationship overall developed in a way I loved. In the end, On Davis Row is, without a doubt, a new favorite from this author. I never really know what to expect from her besides easy writing and romance with no drama, but her ability to write a variety of different topics and genres always amazes me.
“But it’s to just keep people away, right?” Noah took another drink and shot me a look to dare and argue. “You figure if you look like you’re gonna bite, people will stay away. But that’s not really who you are. You’re a diamond in the rough, CJ Davis.”
November 25, 2017
~4.5~
Davis Row is nothing but a dirt road leading to a broken-down house where several generations of Davis men have come and gone. And everyone knows you can't trust a Davis; they're nothin' but druggies, criminals, and losers.
CJ Davis works part-time at an auto shop, where he helps the elderly owner any way he can. He also takes care of his Pops, who has emphysema. CJ is on probation but keeps his head down. He has no dreams for the future; he takes it day by day.
Then a new parole officer shows up. Noah is young and idealistic. He isn't jaded and truly wants to make a difference.
But CJ is having none of that. CJ knows better than to trust anyone, particularly someone like Noah, with his fancy suits, big vocabulary, and sharp cheekbones.
On the surface, CJ and Noah are nothing alike, but appearances can be deceiving. Noah hasn't had an easy life either, and he SEES CJ like no one else, sees CJ's struggles, the secrets he holds close to his heart; he sees how hard CJ works, how clever he is despite his lost childhood, the hurt and abuse.
Their professional boundaries (after all, Noah is CJ's parole officer and holds all the power) blur, and Noah becomes more than a friend. He boosts CJ up when others would tear him down.
Then CJ's cruel, deadbeat father gets out of prison, and CJ's peaceful life with Pops, his gentle flirtations with Noah, come to a screeching halt.
What this book lacks in steam, it more than makes up for in love and sweetness. The epilogue is glorious, and I absolutely loved that Walker included both men's POV.
I adored Pops and Mr. Barese. CJ's relationship with both men, the mutual support and respect, brought tears to my eyes.
On Davis Row is a poignant, slow burn story about family, love, and second chances. It's about hope and perseverance, and having someone in your corner.
Davis Row is nothing but a dirt road leading to a broken-down house where several generations of Davis men have come and gone. And everyone knows you can't trust a Davis; they're nothin' but druggies, criminals, and losers.
CJ Davis works part-time at an auto shop, where he helps the elderly owner any way he can. He also takes care of his Pops, who has emphysema. CJ is on probation but keeps his head down. He has no dreams for the future; he takes it day by day.
Then a new parole officer shows up. Noah is young and idealistic. He isn't jaded and truly wants to make a difference.
But CJ is having none of that. CJ knows better than to trust anyone, particularly someone like Noah, with his fancy suits, big vocabulary, and sharp cheekbones.
On the surface, CJ and Noah are nothing alike, but appearances can be deceiving. Noah hasn't had an easy life either, and he SEES CJ like no one else, sees CJ's struggles, the secrets he holds close to his heart; he sees how hard CJ works, how clever he is despite his lost childhood, the hurt and abuse.
Their professional boundaries (after all, Noah is CJ's parole officer and holds all the power) blur, and Noah becomes more than a friend. He boosts CJ up when others would tear him down.
Then CJ's cruel, deadbeat father gets out of prison, and CJ's peaceful life with Pops, his gentle flirtations with Noah, come to a screeching halt.
What this book lacks in steam, it more than makes up for in love and sweetness. The epilogue is glorious, and I absolutely loved that Walker included both men's POV.
I adored Pops and Mr. Barese. CJ's relationship with both men, the mutual support and respect, brought tears to my eyes.
On Davis Row is a poignant, slow burn story about family, love, and second chances. It's about hope and perseverance, and having someone in your corner.
Fierce, strong, safe, and everything—everything—I needed. I melted against him and could literally feel him mending the broken pieces of my heart, putting me back together again.
I didn't ever want to let him go.
February 7, 2022
4.5 stars
This was adorable!
Re-read 2/2022: This was my very first book by N.R. Walker and it was interesting to see how I would feel about it 4 years later, after having read so many of this author's other books.
I'm happy to say that I enjoyed it just as much, and I actually remembered almost all of it. That's what happens when a story stays with you. 🙂
The romance is a very slow burn one, low on steam but high on emotions – my favorite kind, and this author does it so well. There's also some angst, , but I didn't find the story too heavy. It's sweet and heartwarming.
This was adorable!
Re-read 2/2022: This was my very first book by N.R. Walker and it was interesting to see how I would feel about it 4 years later, after having read so many of this author's other books.
I'm happy to say that I enjoyed it just as much, and I actually remembered almost all of it. That's what happens when a story stays with you. 🙂
The romance is a very slow burn one, low on steam but high on emotions – my favorite kind, and this author does it so well. There's also some angst, , but I didn't find the story too heavy. It's sweet and heartwarming.
June 1, 2024
🚨I'D LIKE TO REPORT A CRIME🚨
because this book got absolutely fucking MURDERED by that narrator, BROTHER eeeeeeuggggggghhhhhhhhw.
The narrator literally went full Australian-accented nasal infection on this audio. It was mix somewhere between crying, whinging and needing to blow his nose all simutaneously and IT WAS DREADFUL.
The inflections and tone of voice used, made CJ sound like an ABSOLUTE twatwaffle.
And Noah and his "saviour complex" WAS WEIRD especially when he was all "I'm so good at my job, I wont judge, i'll do things differently, i'll be better than the rest of the parole officers before me" and then proceeds to... fail to read his clients file, fall inlove with him, and then HAVE A LITERAL FUCKING SOOK WHEN HE READS THE FILE AND GETS A BAMBOOZLE THAT HIS CLIENT DID A CRIME????
Noah face when he reads the file and see's that CJ did an actual crime:
Fuck, NR walker is the queen of inconsistency for me.
Some books SLAP.
Some books CRAP.
I give 3 stars, because maybe with a spoon full of sugar and a different narrator, this book might have done down easier.
June 22, 2019
I waited to write my review because I was so emotional right after finishing this story. I didn’t want to rate it based on the feels I had. I have a HUGE book hangover. I was gutted, the entire time I was reading, I had a sense of foreboding throughout the book!! CJ broke my heart again and again. He just couldn’t get a break until Noah, he was ever so sweet, came along. One of the best books I’ve ever read, simply fantastic!! I’m a bonafide fan of this author!!!
November 18, 2017
On Davis Row was exactly what I expected it to be. An excellent story told in Walker's way.
I liked that it wasn't "fluff." What CJ and Noah have both been through couldn't ever equate to fluff. Our MCs have both been through hell, and are now deserving of the good that life has to offer.
CJ is a Davis. That means something in this tiny little town. All the Davis men are awful people and spend more time in jail than out of it. At least, that's what the townspeople think.
And although CJ does have an arrest on his record, he's a truly good person. He's been dealt a really shitty hand in life, and can't catch a break. Until he meets Noah, his new parole officer.
Noah believes in his role. He believes in keeping offenders out of jail and integrating them into their communities. He believes that sometimes, all it takes is one person, one person to believe in the good in someone. One person to offer a hand, to offer another way.
The hurt/comfort theme had the potential to become very overwhelming to the story. But it didn't. Walker balanced well between that and the sexy banter. The story definitely needed the levity.
Noah knows he can't get involved with one of his cases. But CJ is only on parole for another 4 weeks. He can last that long, right?
This story is about underestimated power.
The power within, that sometimes just needs a catalyst.
The power of someone, for once, saying that they believe in you.
The power of friendship.
The power of offering someone a chance.
The power of a hug.
The power of love.
I liked that it wasn't "fluff." What CJ and Noah have both been through couldn't ever equate to fluff. Our MCs have both been through hell, and are now deserving of the good that life has to offer.
CJ is a Davis. That means something in this tiny little town. All the Davis men are awful people and spend more time in jail than out of it. At least, that's what the townspeople think.
And although CJ does have an arrest on his record, he's a truly good person. He's been dealt a really shitty hand in life, and can't catch a break. Until he meets Noah, his new parole officer.
Noah believes in his role. He believes in keeping offenders out of jail and integrating them into their communities. He believes that sometimes, all it takes is one person, one person to believe in the good in someone. One person to offer a hand, to offer another way.
The hurt/comfort theme had the potential to become very overwhelming to the story. But it didn't. Walker balanced well between that and the sexy banter. The story definitely needed the levity.
Noah knows he can't get involved with one of his cases. But CJ is only on parole for another 4 weeks. He can last that long, right?
This story is about underestimated power.
The power within, that sometimes just needs a catalyst.
The power of someone, for once, saying that they believe in you.
The power of friendship.
The power of offering someone a chance.
The power of a hug.
The power of love.
November 23, 2017
On Davis Row is a beautifully written, heartwarming story about second chances and learning that you are more than your family name. In fact, your family doesn't have to be those that are blood related, at all. That particular theme is one of my favorites, because most of the people I consider my family aren't blood related to me, but I know they have my back and I have theirs. That's what family really means.
CJ Davis was dealt a rotten hand in life. All four of his older brothers and his father are no good criminals, all in prison. CJ's only relative that is worth anything is Pops, who raised him the best he could. Now CJ cares for Pops, who is getting up there in age and is chronically ill. Even still, "everyone" knows that those Davis men are no good, so no matter how hard CJ tries to do the right thing -- and he succeeds, dammit -- he still gets lumped in with his brothers and father, because CJ made a mistake a couple years ago and is now on parole.
Noah Huxley is a brand new parole officer. Noah wants to make a difference and he's determined to not treat his parolees as irredeemable. He wants them to succeed and get their lives back on track. He wants to help them. His fellow parole officers see Noah as a dreamer, but they're content to let him do his best. Maybe he's naive, but Noah really feels that everyone deserves a chance to be a law-abiding, productive member of society and he knows that for so many, they've been dealt awful hands and are just trying to survive. But Noah's life hasn't been all rainbows and kittens, either. He knows what loss feels like and he knows that second chances don't come easy.
I loved On Davis Row. CJ has come so far, all on his own. He's never been like his brothers and father and every bit of progress he managed was because he was so determined to be better. Even still, he slipped through every crack in system. He can barely read and write, he has no certifications, but he's good with mechanical things and, since he was 14, he's been working at a local auto repair. CJ only has two people in his court -- Pops and his boss at the auto shop. Once Noah gets to know CJ, a little -- and CJ doesn't make it easy -- he has Noah in his court, too. And Noah has resources to actually help CJ succeed.
On Davis Row had the perfect amount of angst that fit both Noah's and CJ's background, without ever becoming overwhelming. Noah and CJ have to navigate the waters of their relationship very carefully because, like it or not, Noah is CJ parole officer and fraternization is more than just frowned upon. But as they get to know each other, they become friends and then more because some things are just inevitable. Two men, both in need of some healing. Both in need of someone just for them. And a wonderful HEA that made me so proud.
Recommended!
-----------------------------------
ARC of On David Row was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
CJ Davis was dealt a rotten hand in life. All four of his older brothers and his father are no good criminals, all in prison. CJ's only relative that is worth anything is Pops, who raised him the best he could. Now CJ cares for Pops, who is getting up there in age and is chronically ill. Even still, "everyone" knows that those Davis men are no good, so no matter how hard CJ tries to do the right thing -- and he succeeds, dammit -- he still gets lumped in with his brothers and father, because CJ made a mistake a couple years ago and is now on parole.
Noah Huxley is a brand new parole officer. Noah wants to make a difference and he's determined to not treat his parolees as irredeemable. He wants them to succeed and get their lives back on track. He wants to help them. His fellow parole officers see Noah as a dreamer, but they're content to let him do his best. Maybe he's naive, but Noah really feels that everyone deserves a chance to be a law-abiding, productive member of society and he knows that for so many, they've been dealt awful hands and are just trying to survive. But Noah's life hasn't been all rainbows and kittens, either. He knows what loss feels like and he knows that second chances don't come easy.
I loved On Davis Row. CJ has come so far, all on his own. He's never been like his brothers and father and every bit of progress he managed was because he was so determined to be better. Even still, he slipped through every crack in system. He can barely read and write, he has no certifications, but he's good with mechanical things and, since he was 14, he's been working at a local auto repair. CJ only has two people in his court -- Pops and his boss at the auto shop. Once Noah gets to know CJ, a little -- and CJ doesn't make it easy -- he has Noah in his court, too. And Noah has resources to actually help CJ succeed.
On Davis Row had the perfect amount of angst that fit both Noah's and CJ's background, without ever becoming overwhelming. Noah and CJ have to navigate the waters of their relationship very carefully because, like it or not, Noah is CJ parole officer and fraternization is more than just frowned upon. But as they get to know each other, they become friends and then more because some things are just inevitable. Two men, both in need of some healing. Both in need of someone just for them. And a wonderful HEA that made me so proud.
Recommended!
-----------------------------------
ARC of On David Row was generously provided by the author, in exchange for an honest review.
November 27, 2018
My dear husband died this summer and I’m just getting back into reading after having been gone for 2 years. (I didn’t read while he was sick either.) I’ve always been leery of angsty books (depression sucks) but now more than ever I need a positive vibe with minimal heartbreak in my books. Davis Row was super angst filled (IMO) and I had a hard time finishing the book. I think I basically finished the book because CJ suffered so much I NEEDED his HEA.
I love the Goddess Ms. Walker and 95% of her books, but I need to be extra careful with my reading material right now so my mental health doesn’t take a tumble.
I’ll probably try this again in a few years. I loved Noah to bits and him alone will guarantee and re-read.
I love the Goddess Ms. Walker and 95% of her books, but I need to be extra careful with my reading material right now so my mental health doesn’t take a tumble.
I’ll probably try this again in a few years. I loved Noah to bits and him alone will guarantee and re-read.
June 30, 2022
Don't judge a book by its cover. And don't judge a man by his bad boy image.
CJ Davis is 24 years old and on parole. He works as a mechanic and takes care of his aging grandfather, trying to get a grip on his life while the other men in his family (his dad, his brothers) are spending their lives in prison.
New and highly motivated corrections officer Noah Huxley is CJ's new parole officer. Even though CJ is not too keen on talking to the handsome new guy, Noah manages to coax CJ out of his shell and shows him that having certain weaknesses, such as his trouble reading, are nothing to be ashamed of.
CJ's chip on his shoulder is his own worst enemy and it takes a lot of empathy and friendship to make CJ see the light.
But instead of friendship, both guys find so much more in each other.
It's a beautiful romance. I loved both guys so much. CJ is a sweetheart and not even the obligatory misunderstanding - when Noah assumed that CJ was a meth cook - could take anything away from this story.
The character development was picture book perfect and so satisfying.
I enjoyed this book so much!!!
5 stars!!
CJ Davis is 24 years old and on parole. He works as a mechanic and takes care of his aging grandfather, trying to get a grip on his life while the other men in his family (his dad, his brothers) are spending their lives in prison.
New and highly motivated corrections officer Noah Huxley is CJ's new parole officer. Even though CJ is not too keen on talking to the handsome new guy, Noah manages to coax CJ out of his shell and shows him that having certain weaknesses, such as his trouble reading, are nothing to be ashamed of.
CJ's chip on his shoulder is his own worst enemy and it takes a lot of empathy and friendship to make CJ see the light.
But instead of friendship, both guys find so much more in each other.
It's a beautiful romance. I loved both guys so much. CJ is a sweetheart and not even the obligatory misunderstanding - when Noah assumed that CJ was a meth cook - could take anything away from this story.
The character development was picture book perfect and so satisfying.
I enjoyed this book so much!!!
5 stars!!
April 30, 2021
3.75 Stars
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novel. Lately, Ms. Walker’s books didn't really work out for me but I’m glad I gave this one a chance, it was enjoyable. It wasn’t strong on the romance (those 3 weeks were really frustrating) or even a steamy sexy read but still, it was good. It’s low on angst, slow burn with a touch of humor with adorable characters. Overall, it was a good read and hope you like it as well!
Told in dual POV, 1st person, it’s a standalone novel. Lately, Ms. Walker’s books didn't really work out for me but I’m glad I gave this one a chance, it was enjoyable. It wasn’t strong on the romance (those 3 weeks were really frustrating) or even a steamy sexy read but still, it was good. It’s low on angst, slow burn with a touch of humor with adorable characters. Overall, it was a good read and hope you like it as well!
July 1, 2025
Sometimes, it only takes one person to change a life.
This is the story of Noah - a new parole officer looking for a fresh start, running from a traumatic past. And CJ - a young man born into a violent, criminal family in a town that never gave him a chance. A town where his last name alone is enough to doom him. He’s caught in a cycle he can’t break; at least not on his own.
It’s a really compelling and original pairing that I haven’t really come across yet, and the forbidden-ness, and the yearning, and the caring for each other as well as the steadfast conviction that CJ deserves better was really lovely to read.
But hear me out: the romance didn’t quite do it for me. Mostly because… well, Noah’s energy was just a bit off.
There’s a definite power imbalance here. CJ is literally dependent on Noah - emotionally, socially, legally - and Noah’s saviour complex goes unchecked the entire time. He’s also wildly unprofessional (and so inappropriate with his ‘I’m gonna kiss you in two weeks and you’re gonna beg me for it’ without CJ really giving him the go-ahead). And then there’s the fact that he didn’t even read CJ’s full case file before jumping in and then had the AUDACITY to be shocked when CJ had a criminal past, going all like ‘boohooo, did he lie to me???’
Like… my guy, no. He didn’t lie to you. You literally met him AS HIS FUCKING PAROLE OFFICER 😂😂. What exactly did you think he was on parole for? Baking too many cookies?! I rolled my eyes so hard at that lol
But here’s the thing: I still really enjoyed this book. And the reason is CJ. And Pops. And the central, heartbreaking question it asks:
“What does it take to break the cycle?”
That’s where the book shines, at least for me.
CJ’s arc is so powerful and deeply emotional. You really feel how trapped he is - not just by the justice system, but by the legacy of his last name, by his abusive father, by the weight of everyone else’s expectations that he’ll screw up, and by the lack of choices he’s ever been given. But instead of turning bitter, he stays soft in the places that matter. He’s loyal, kind, quietly determined, and just trying his damn best to claw his way out of a life he didn’t choose. Watching him try and grow after everything he’s been through, was absolutely gut-wrenching and inspiring.
And then there’s Pops. Oh my god, Pops. The way he shows up for CJ again and again, with all his genuine love and care, without expecting anything in return was so precious. Their relationship was the emotional anchor of the entire book for me. The way they move through so much hardship, and still manage to create this tiny, fragile sense of home together? It was beautiful. It’s rare to see a platonic, familial love written with that much tenderness and weight, and that moved me way more than the romance did. I could’ve read 300 pages of just CJ and Pops rebuilding their lives (with no Noah in sight), carving out something hopeful from the wreckage. That’s how much I cared about them.
So yeah, the 4 stars are for CJ and Pops, who will stay with me for a while, I’m sure of it 🧡
PS: I listened to the audiobook because the author mentioned it might not be free on Audible much longer, so if you always wanted to go for it, now’s your chance (but fair warning… it’s narrated by Joel Leslie. So, yeah. 🙄).
This is the story of Noah - a new parole officer looking for a fresh start, running from a traumatic past. And CJ - a young man born into a violent, criminal family in a town that never gave him a chance. A town where his last name alone is enough to doom him. He’s caught in a cycle he can’t break; at least not on his own.
It’s a really compelling and original pairing that I haven’t really come across yet, and the forbidden-ness, and the yearning, and the caring for each other as well as the steadfast conviction that CJ deserves better was really lovely to read.
But hear me out: the romance didn’t quite do it for me. Mostly because… well, Noah’s energy was just a bit off.
There’s a definite power imbalance here. CJ is literally dependent on Noah - emotionally, socially, legally - and Noah’s saviour complex goes unchecked the entire time. He’s also wildly unprofessional (and so inappropriate with his ‘I’m gonna kiss you in two weeks and you’re gonna beg me for it’ without CJ really giving him the go-ahead). And then there’s the fact that he didn’t even read CJ’s full case file before jumping in and then had the AUDACITY to be shocked when CJ had a criminal past, going all like ‘boohooo, did he lie to me???’
Like… my guy, no. He didn’t lie to you. You literally met him AS HIS FUCKING PAROLE OFFICER 😂😂. What exactly did you think he was on parole for? Baking too many cookies?! I rolled my eyes so hard at that lol
But here’s the thing: I still really enjoyed this book. And the reason is CJ. And Pops. And the central, heartbreaking question it asks:
“What does it take to break the cycle?”
That’s where the book shines, at least for me.
CJ’s arc is so powerful and deeply emotional. You really feel how trapped he is - not just by the justice system, but by the legacy of his last name, by his abusive father, by the weight of everyone else’s expectations that he’ll screw up, and by the lack of choices he’s ever been given. But instead of turning bitter, he stays soft in the places that matter. He’s loyal, kind, quietly determined, and just trying his damn best to claw his way out of a life he didn’t choose. Watching him try and grow after everything he’s been through, was absolutely gut-wrenching and inspiring.
And then there’s Pops. Oh my god, Pops. The way he shows up for CJ again and again, with all his genuine love and care, without expecting anything in return was so precious. Their relationship was the emotional anchor of the entire book for me. The way they move through so much hardship, and still manage to create this tiny, fragile sense of home together? It was beautiful. It’s rare to see a platonic, familial love written with that much tenderness and weight, and that moved me way more than the romance did. I could’ve read 300 pages of just CJ and Pops rebuilding their lives (with no Noah in sight), carving out something hopeful from the wreckage. That’s how much I cared about them.
So yeah, the 4 stars are for CJ and Pops, who will stay with me for a while, I’m sure of it 🧡
PS: I listened to the audiobook because the author mentioned it might not be free on Audible much longer, so if you always wanted to go for it, now’s your chance (but fair warning… it’s narrated by Joel Leslie. So, yeah. 🙄).
December 11, 2017
*4,5 stars*
N.R. Walker just knows how to write two supercute guys and turn on the emotions.
However, don't expect this to be easy going all the way! 'On Davis Row' also touches upon serious themes like domestic abuse, illiteracy and defamation.
I LOVED the slow burn between Noah and CJ, and the snail pace of their developing relationship. It not only adds tension and a good amount of UST to the book (as does the countdown of CJ's parole, which got me all uptight and convinced me something had to happen to mess it up for him) but also shows that these two guys are two responsible, thinking and very caring adults.
The author does a stellar job at describing CJ's journey from emotionally and socially totally withdrawn to confident, loving and successful. And Noah's optimism and honesty just swept me away. Both men are totally loveable and huggable (and oh, those hugs had me tear up a couple of times!))
Low on steam, but absolutely brilliant on feels and character development!
Highly recommended.
N.R. Walker just knows how to write two supercute guys and turn on the emotions.
However, don't expect this to be easy going all the way! 'On Davis Row' also touches upon serious themes like domestic abuse, illiteracy and defamation.
I LOVED the slow burn between Noah and CJ, and the snail pace of their developing relationship. It not only adds tension and a good amount of UST to the book (as does the countdown of CJ's parole, which got me all uptight and convinced me something had to happen to mess it up for him) but also shows that these two guys are two responsible, thinking and very caring adults.
The author does a stellar job at describing CJ's journey from emotionally and socially totally withdrawn to confident, loving and successful. And Noah's optimism and honesty just swept me away. Both men are totally loveable and huggable (and oh, those hugs had me tear up a couple of times!))
Low on steam, but absolutely brilliant on feels and character development!
Highly recommended.
December 16, 2021
Please, send me a Noah. Gift me a Noah. I need a Noah.
"There will be days where you'll want to punch something and days you'll want to cry, I get that. And some days you'll need to be around people and days when you'll need some space, and I'll understand that too."
I love this book so much! I knew this book would heal me in some ways.
I like how genuine the characters are. I love how warm the writing is. I love how everything has been so difficult for both of them but also how they're there for each other till the end.
I felt so sad about how broken CJ was before he met Noah. And Noah.
Yes, exactly. I mean he's my perfect fictional character.
Trigger warnings for extreme domestic violence, and child abuse.
I love how the chemistry is both hot and soft, if it makes sense.
I guess I will need an N. R. Walker book for the rest of my life.
"There will be days where you'll want to punch something and days you'll want to cry, I get that. And some days you'll need to be around people and days when you'll need some space, and I'll understand that too."
I love this book so much! I knew this book would heal me in some ways.
I like how genuine the characters are. I love how warm the writing is. I love how everything has been so difficult for both of them but also how they're there for each other till the end.
I felt so sad about how broken CJ was before he met Noah. And Noah.
Yes, exactly. I mean he's my perfect fictional character.
Trigger warnings for extreme domestic violence, and child abuse.
I love how the chemistry is both hot and soft, if it makes sense.
I guess I will need an N. R. Walker book for the rest of my life.
November 26, 2017
I loved this to pieces. Review to come.
September 8, 2022
It is difficult to redeem yourself when your whole family is a criminal but not all apples are rotten. Thanks to a sweet parole office that gives you the power and makes you believe in yourself.
Love this hurt/comfort
Re read 2022: this is still one of my favourite books
Love this hurt/comfort
Re read 2022: this is still one of my favourite books
February 11, 2018
3.5 stars I liked this but didn’t love it. It was way too slow burn for me and I really just didn’t feel the connection with these characters like I usually do when reading this author. It was still a decent read though. I loved Pops. He added so much to this story.
January 31, 2019
Audio 2.5 stars
Story - 3.75 stars
Story - 3.75 stars
January 5, 2018
If I had to use only a few words : all these feels…poignant, swooning and melting…right on spot for me.
I don’t have anything to add about NR Walker’s writing : she has a lot of fans and I am among them.
But tbh, I was not tempted by the blurb : CJ is a grumpy mechanic on probation, living in a poor neighbourhood and with a bad reputation. A few weeks before the end of his regular control visits and drug tests, he meets his new parole officer, Noah, full of enthusiasm and so willing to help his parolees to be back on the right tracks.
So, I went for it just because it was written by NR Walker. And **BAM** : no theatrics, not a lot of steam, but the feels…THE FEELS !!
Poverty, domestic violence, illiteracy, preconceived judgements, loneliness. It might sound very angsty, but no : it was approached realistically and was not overwhelming : just poignant. Last year, I stumbled on too many books where authors went ballistic just to pull on the readers’ emotions that it was just eye-rolling : it was not the case here.
And to counter balance all this : the power of seeing somebody and not relying on rumors, of encouraging somebody, of having faith. And most of all, the power of a touch…That is my undoing. As I said, not a lot of steam, but so many “hug” moments and all the attached feels, perfectly described….
I loved the story, I loved Noah and CJ, I loved the development of their relationship, a slow-burn so delicious, and I loved their HEA.
Highly recommended.
**Note for Ariana : thank you so, so much for this Christmas gift : it was absolutely perfect <3**
I don’t have anything to add about NR Walker’s writing : she has a lot of fans and I am among them.
But tbh, I was not tempted by the blurb : CJ is a grumpy mechanic on probation, living in a poor neighbourhood and with a bad reputation. A few weeks before the end of his regular control visits and drug tests, he meets his new parole officer, Noah, full of enthusiasm and so willing to help his parolees to be back on the right tracks.
So, I went for it just because it was written by NR Walker. And **BAM** : no theatrics, not a lot of steam, but the feels…THE FEELS !!
Poverty, domestic violence, illiteracy, preconceived judgements, loneliness. It might sound very angsty, but no : it was approached realistically and was not overwhelming : just poignant. Last year, I stumbled on too many books where authors went ballistic just to pull on the readers’ emotions that it was just eye-rolling : it was not the case here.
And to counter balance all this : the power of seeing somebody and not relying on rumors, of encouraging somebody, of having faith. And most of all, the power of a touch…That is my undoing. As I said, not a lot of steam, but so many “hug” moments and all the attached feels, perfectly described….
I loved the story, I loved Noah and CJ, I loved the development of their relationship, a slow-burn so delicious, and I loved their HEA.
Highly recommended.
**Note for Ariana : thank you so, so much for this Christmas gift : it was absolutely perfect <3**
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February 10, 2020
Wow, 'On Davis Row' was a good story, both when it came to the romance as well as the background story of the main character, CJ. He's a survivor with capital letters, and I love to read about such underdogs. Learning about his hardships was part of the enjoyment of the story, so I'll refrain from spoiling any story details.
The young Parole Officer, Noah, is a sweet guy with the heart in the right place. The way he helps CJ out is awesome, very uplifting to read about. But I have to say in a real life scenario I'd struggle big time with Noah's professional ethics, or rather lack thereof. Getting romantically involved with a parolee would not ok to me, irl, as it's abuse of a position of power. Noah argues that voicing but not acting on his attraction makes it ok, but I disagree. But yeah, as this is a romance novel I could allow this issue a pass while still enjoying the story.
For the most part I absolutely adored this story and can see myself re-reading it at some point. The finale was perhaps a bit too perfect, with every single problem going away neat and tidy. And the romance at the end also got a teeny, tiny bit too cheesy. But I did love the epilogue—pure perfection.
The young Parole Officer, Noah, is a sweet guy with the heart in the right place. The way he helps CJ out is awesome, very uplifting to read about. But I have to say in a real life scenario I'd struggle big time with Noah's professional ethics, or rather lack thereof. Getting romantically involved with a parolee would not ok to me, irl, as it's abuse of a position of power. Noah argues that voicing but not acting on his attraction makes it ok, but I disagree. But yeah, as this is a romance novel I could allow this issue a pass while still enjoying the story.
For the most part I absolutely adored this story and can see myself re-reading it at some point. The finale was perhaps a bit too perfect, with every single problem going away neat and tidy. And the romance at the end also got a teeny, tiny bit too cheesy. But I did love the epilogue—pure perfection.
February 4, 2019
Endearing and heartfelt!
There was very little that was pretty in this book, but it was overflowing with kindness, goodness and heart.
It portrayed the bleak life of CJ, who on account of his family, has endured unending prejudice and abuse. It’s not pretty, but he is a good man.
His parole officer, Noah, sees the good in him and something else. Slowly he breaks through the hard walls that CJ has raised over the years and the two forge a strong bond—one that is tested by not only CJ’s past, but by his present.
Worry not, dear readers, these two have a solid HEA, even if I was waiting for the other show to drop the entire time an mess everything up.
This was a great read with a fine narration by Joel Leslie (even if it was hard to distinguish between the two MCs from time to time).
There was very little that was pretty in this book, but it was overflowing with kindness, goodness and heart.
It portrayed the bleak life of CJ, who on account of his family, has endured unending prejudice and abuse. It’s not pretty, but he is a good man.
His parole officer, Noah, sees the good in him and something else. Slowly he breaks through the hard walls that CJ has raised over the years and the two forge a strong bond—one that is tested by not only CJ’s past, but by his present.
Worry not, dear readers, these two have a solid HEA, even if I was waiting for the other show to drop the entire time an mess everything up.
This was a great read with a fine narration by Joel Leslie (even if it was hard to distinguish between the two MCs from time to time).
November 20, 2024
Re-read!
5 stars
Loved this so, so much. These guys both had such pure hearts and were so perfect for each other. Noah is probably one of my favourite characters ever. Maybe almost too perfect but I really want to believe that people like him exist. And CJ was such a good soul despite all of the shitty things in his life. The slow build of their relationship was beautifully done. Highly recommended.
5 stars
Loved this so, so much. These guys both had such pure hearts and were so perfect for each other. Noah is probably one of my favourite characters ever. Maybe almost too perfect but I really want to believe that people like him exist. And CJ was such a good soul despite all of the shitty things in his life. The slow build of their relationship was beautifully done. Highly recommended.
October 16, 2023
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes & tags down below.
Worthless. Trouble. Good for nothing. I’d heard it all before. It was all I’d ever heard.
I have genuinly lost count of the amount of times I’ve read or listened to this book. It is definitely one of my favorite N.R Walker books, and one of my favorites overall. There’s very few happy and good vibes in this in the normal sense until quite late, but the feeling of hope that slowly builds is really special. Noah has experienced true tragedy in his life, yet he’s optimistic and spends his time trying to make life better for others. One of those he tries to help is our other main character, CJ. He is so freaking prickly and angry. Life has dealt him a shit hand, and he’s just trying to endure it. Behind that wall of prickliness, he’s a touch starved sweetheart that just needs someone to help him and care for him. He deserves the world.
He put a cigarette between his lips and I was transfixed. Smoking was a filthy habit, but I’d never wanted to be a cigarette so much in my life.
The MCs are a probation officer and probationer, and the sexual tension that builds when they’re waiting for CJ’s probation to be over so that they can be together is *magnifique*. I love both main characters to death, but CJ holds a special place in my heart. He’s barely making any money, his entire family is incarcerated except for Pops (who is chronically ill), and when his dad isn’t in jail, he’s abusive. He can’t read or write, and yet he’s so kind and does his best to care for Pops. How could you *not* love him?
Every time I hugged him, he held on for dear life. I loved it, truly I did, but it tugged at my heartstrings, reminding me of all the things he’d missed. Of all the things he’d been deprived of.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Probationer
Probation officer
Poverty
Illiterate MC
Slow burn
Closeted MC
Coming out
Touch starved MC
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Housefire
Death of a parent (present, few details)
Domestic violence (father/son)
Mentions of car accident (past)
Mentions of death of family (past)
Side character with chronic illness
Mentions of suicide (family member, past)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: Noah goes on a date with someone else before the MCs get together. They kiss, but immediately realize there’s only friendship there.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile, but both have strong preferences and don’t switch on page.
“[…] They see my beat-up face and assume I’m some troublemaker. But I don’t do nothin’ wrong. I try, every day, to be a good person. To help out and take care of Pops, ya know? I don’t ask for nothin’. I don’t have anything and I don’t blame the world for that. I don’t think nobody owes me a goddamn thing. I’m just trying to get through each fucking day.”
Worthless. Trouble. Good for nothing. I’d heard it all before. It was all I’d ever heard.
I have genuinly lost count of the amount of times I’ve read or listened to this book. It is definitely one of my favorite N.R Walker books, and one of my favorites overall. There’s very few happy and good vibes in this in the normal sense until quite late, but the feeling of hope that slowly builds is really special. Noah has experienced true tragedy in his life, yet he’s optimistic and spends his time trying to make life better for others. One of those he tries to help is our other main character, CJ. He is so freaking prickly and angry. Life has dealt him a shit hand, and he’s just trying to endure it. Behind that wall of prickliness, he’s a touch starved sweetheart that just needs someone to help him and care for him. He deserves the world.
He put a cigarette between his lips and I was transfixed. Smoking was a filthy habit, but I’d never wanted to be a cigarette so much in my life.
The MCs are a probation officer and probationer, and the sexual tension that builds when they’re waiting for CJ’s probation to be over so that they can be together is *magnifique*. I love both main characters to death, but CJ holds a special place in my heart. He’s barely making any money, his entire family is incarcerated except for Pops (who is chronically ill), and when his dad isn’t in jail, he’s abusive. He can’t read or write, and yet he’s so kind and does his best to care for Pops. How could you *not* love him?
Every time I hugged him, he held on for dear life. I loved it, truly I did, but it tugged at my heartstrings, reminding me of all the things he’d missed. Of all the things he’d been deprived of.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Probationer
Probation officer
Poverty
Illiterate MC
Slow burn
Closeted MC
Coming out
Touch starved MC
⚠️⚠️ Content warning ⚠️⚠️
Housefire
Death of a parent (present, few details)
Domestic violence (father/son)
Mentions of car accident (past)
Mentions of death of family (past)
Side character with chronic illness
Mentions of suicide (family member, past)
⚠️⚠️⚠️ Book safety ⚠️⚠️⚠️
Cheating: No
OM/OW drama: Noah goes on a date with someone else before the MCs get together. They kiss, but immediately realize there’s only friendship there.
Third-act breakup: No
POV: 1st person, dual POV
Genre: Contemporary romance, M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Versatile, but both have strong preferences and don’t switch on page.
“[…] They see my beat-up face and assume I’m some troublemaker. But I don’t do nothin’ wrong. I try, every day, to be a good person. To help out and take care of Pops, ya know? I don’t ask for nothin’. I don’t have anything and I don’t blame the world for that. I don’t think nobody owes me a goddamn thing. I’m just trying to get through each fucking day.”
June 6, 2023
N.R. Walker is one of my favourite romance authors, and On Davis Row is one of my favs from her. It hits you right in the feels with our character's circumstances and history, while also being really romantic and having well crafted character arcs and growth.
___
CJ Davis who has four weeks left of his parole. His family life is far from good with his dad and older brothers spending more time in prison than not. It's not all bad, CJ has his Pops who he loves and cares for. As well as a job in Mr Barese's garage. Mr Barese really cares for CJ and looks out for him where he can. I love Pops and Mr Barese for being there for CJ.
The main conflict of the book is CJ's father, who gets out of prison early on in the book. Violent, his presence is a tangible weight that falls over the house. He's such a terrible person. A real villain who's mission it seems is to make CJ and Pops life miserable.
Our other main character is Noah Huxley, fresh on the job as a parole officer. He inherits CJ's case from the previous guy who left the job. Noah has a personal reason for going into this line of work. He truly wants to help the people he's assigned to.
There's a good bit of friction between CJ and Noah for a while. CJ doesn't know if he can trust Noah, he believes Noah is just like the other parole officers who are just in it for the steady paycheck. But Noah is determined to help CJ, and seeing the trust grow between them was beautiful.
And of course this is a romance after all, CJ and Noah begin to develop feelings for one another. But it's decided that they'll wait out the four weeks that are left of on CJ's parole before entering into a romantic relationship.
___
CJ Davis who has four weeks left of his parole. His family life is far from good with his dad and older brothers spending more time in prison than not. It's not all bad, CJ has his Pops who he loves and cares for. As well as a job in Mr Barese's garage. Mr Barese really cares for CJ and looks out for him where he can. I love Pops and Mr Barese for being there for CJ.
The main conflict of the book is CJ's father, who gets out of prison early on in the book. Violent, his presence is a tangible weight that falls over the house. He's such a terrible person. A real villain who's mission it seems is to make CJ and Pops life miserable.
Our other main character is Noah Huxley, fresh on the job as a parole officer. He inherits CJ's case from the previous guy who left the job. Noah has a personal reason for going into this line of work. He truly wants to help the people he's assigned to.
There's a good bit of friction between CJ and Noah for a while. CJ doesn't know if he can trust Noah, he believes Noah is just like the other parole officers who are just in it for the steady paycheck. But Noah is determined to help CJ, and seeing the trust grow between them was beautiful.
And of course this is a romance after all, CJ and Noah begin to develop feelings for one another. But it's decided that they'll wait out the four weeks that are left of on CJ's parole before entering into a romantic relationship.
September 5, 2021
4 solid stars ⭐️ I was looking for a book that gave me an angsty vibe, and hold my attention until the end. Then, @Nicole recommended this book to me, and I should say I was hooked to the story from the start and that it was the perfect match for what I wanted.
This story was heart-wrenching and emotional. Family, friendship, home in our lives made us feel like we're being loved. But there might be some people who are craving for a small human touch but got nothing in their lifetime.
On Davis Row was the story of two highly likable characters who found themselves relying on each other when life was going to be nothing but hell.
Noah was the new parole officer, and CJ was his parolee. Noah still was his young age, when he was appointed as the position and he wanted to make every parolee’s life more pleasant. He understood his responsibility as a parole officer, and he determined to make his job more preferable while giving something to the community.
Since his childhood, CJ didn't know what was called happy. He had a traumatic childhood, making it more miserable he had a family which fucked up right from the start too.
When CJ met Noah, CJ didn't give a pleasant vibe around him, more likely a ‘fuck you’ attitude towards him. He didn't trust anyone because never in his life had he felt loved or affectionate by anyone.
But Noah saw right through him and he probably understood how much CJ had been suffering throughout his lifetime. Noah wanted to make everything right for CJ because he knew that CJ should have deserved better.
“CJ Davis was a puzzle I wanted to solve. I wanted to see how his pieces fit, how they interlocked, to see what bigger picture they made.”
I can understand what Noah try to do, and I appreciate his honesty and generous attitude even though his past also was most likely to be taunting him constantly. When CJ pushed him, Noah pushed back. Because he knew that he was more or less the same as CJ because both of their past lives weren't exactly satisfactory but filled with a lot of agonies.
At first, CJ held his guard tight as possible. But slowly, the vulnerability in CJ made his soul bare in front of Noah without so much a fight. I liked how CJ peeled every layer of him for Noah, and let his guard down. When he got to know the real CJ, he had no clue of what was like to walk in CJ’s shoes, what he’d been through, the life he’d lived, and the shitty childhood he’d suffered.
“He wanted to know more of me. He wanted me. Not just physically, but he wanted me, CJ Davis. I’d never thought, not for one minute, that I’d find that with anyone.”
These two had some delicious chemistry going on, and I was happy to see these two got a HEA. The epilogue was something. They deserve it.
Recommended ❤️
This story was heart-wrenching and emotional. Family, friendship, home in our lives made us feel like we're being loved. But there might be some people who are craving for a small human touch but got nothing in their lifetime.
On Davis Row was the story of two highly likable characters who found themselves relying on each other when life was going to be nothing but hell.
Noah was the new parole officer, and CJ was his parolee. Noah still was his young age, when he was appointed as the position and he wanted to make every parolee’s life more pleasant. He understood his responsibility as a parole officer, and he determined to make his job more preferable while giving something to the community.
Since his childhood, CJ didn't know what was called happy. He had a traumatic childhood, making it more miserable he had a family which fucked up right from the start too.
When CJ met Noah, CJ didn't give a pleasant vibe around him, more likely a ‘fuck you’ attitude towards him. He didn't trust anyone because never in his life had he felt loved or affectionate by anyone.
But Noah saw right through him and he probably understood how much CJ had been suffering throughout his lifetime. Noah wanted to make everything right for CJ because he knew that CJ should have deserved better.
“CJ Davis was a puzzle I wanted to solve. I wanted to see how his pieces fit, how they interlocked, to see what bigger picture they made.”
I can understand what Noah try to do, and I appreciate his honesty and generous attitude even though his past also was most likely to be taunting him constantly. When CJ pushed him, Noah pushed back. Because he knew that he was more or less the same as CJ because both of their past lives weren't exactly satisfactory but filled with a lot of agonies.
At first, CJ held his guard tight as possible. But slowly, the vulnerability in CJ made his soul bare in front of Noah without so much a fight. I liked how CJ peeled every layer of him for Noah, and let his guard down. When he got to know the real CJ, he had no clue of what was like to walk in CJ’s shoes, what he’d been through, the life he’d lived, and the shitty childhood he’d suffered.
“He wanted to know more of me. He wanted me. Not just physically, but he wanted me, CJ Davis. I’d never thought, not for one minute, that I’d find that with anyone.”
These two had some delicious chemistry going on, and I was happy to see these two got a HEA. The epilogue was something. They deserve it.
Recommended ❤️
November 30, 2017
A pesar de no ser una gran fan de la autora, al final siempre termino leyéndola, no me emociona pero a veces es justo lo que necesitas, ese toque dulce que le caracteriza.
En esta ocasión, esta ha sido una de sus historias que más me ha gustado. Aunque sigue siendo protagonista la dulzura, y algunas situaciones son difíciles de creer, aquí el angst está también ligeramente presente, toda esa combinación junto con unos personajes absolutamente adorables y un buen slow burn han hecho que disfrutara muchísimo el libro.
Un winner para mi.
En esta ocasión, esta ha sido una de sus historias que más me ha gustado. Aunque sigue siendo protagonista la dulzura, y algunas situaciones son difíciles de creer, aquí el angst está también ligeramente presente, toda esa combinación junto con unos personajes absolutamente adorables y un buen slow burn han hecho que disfrutara muchísimo el libro.
Un winner para mi.
July 20, 2018
Oh my I loved that one. How they need each other is just perfectly described. You feel they need to hug CJ through the pages ❤️ big love to the author
June 1, 2024
One of the things I love about listening to Joel Leslie narrate is the way he draws the emotions out and really makes the listener feel invested in what's happening.
He provides clear and distinguishable character voices, and he performs the text in a way that had me completely sucked into the story and anxious for what happens next, which is a real gift because I've already read this book, but Joel made it seem like I was meeting Noah and CJ for the first time and the way he performed this made me fall even more in love with the characters and story.
The narration by Joel Leslie took a story I'd liked and transformed it into one I loved. Such a great job on this performance.
On Davis Row is a quiet, slower paced love story about second chances and finding your strength from within and from the people who support you. Told from both Noah and CJ's first person points of view there's a lovely thread of hurt/comfort throughout this story, both because of Noah's past and CJ's entire life.
On Davis Row is a quiet romance with medium angst, a bit of a slow burn, an absolutely wonderful happy ending, and great narration.
Audio copy of On Davis Row provided by the author in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
November 25, 2017
4.5 stars.
This was a heartbreaking novel that tugs at all your heartstrings. I felt stuff I haven't in a very long time and I loved every second of it. Noah and CJ are polar opposites yet their chemistry is crazy hot. Their connection is undeniable and the relationship they had really did something to me.
The way they just seemed to get each other and their hugs. *melts heart*
CJ really did break my heart. Aside from his pops, the shop he works at and Noah he's been dealt with a shitty hand in life and everything just goes wrong for him.
This is a beautiful slow burn romance with second chances, family, friends, and discovering yourself.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This was a heartbreaking novel that tugs at all your heartstrings. I felt stuff I haven't in a very long time and I loved every second of it. Noah and CJ are polar opposites yet their chemistry is crazy hot. Their connection is undeniable and the relationship they had really did something to me.
Fierce, strong, safe, and everything — everything — I needed. I melted against him and could literally feel him mending the broken pieces of my heart, putting me back together again.
I didn't ever want to let him go.
The way they just seemed to get each other and their hugs. *melts heart*
CJ really did break my heart. Aside from his pops, the shop he works at and Noah he's been dealt with a shitty hand in life and everything just goes wrong for him.
This is a beautiful slow burn romance with second chances, family, friends, and discovering yourself.
An arc was provided in exchange for an honest review.
January 6, 2018
4/5 stars
I only began delving into the world of M/M romance this year, and I have been loving every minute of it. This book only strengthened my growing obsession with M/M romance as it was sweet, emotional and heartwarming. I was expecting a more angst-filled story, but I was surprised with the path that this book took, away from what I was expecting. The story was much more gut-wrenching than I expected, which made for one emotional ride. I was addicted to this story from the very beginning, as both of the characters were dynamic, intriguing and loveable. I also really loved how this book was set in Australia and it was enjoyable to read the familiar slang, which I don't often find in the books I read. I highly recommend On Davis Row, especially for lovers of this genre.
Nobody ever expected CJ Davis to have a bright future. He is poor and living in a run-down town. His entire family have a long history of criminal offences, with his immediate family being in prison. To further his unfortunate circumstances, CJ himself is on a suspended sentence from jail. His reputation amongst the police and his town are bad and he is dubbed to be on 'Davis Row', a nickname given to his family and the very street he lives on. It seems that CJ has almost given up on trying to clear his name, except for the fact that he is responsible for looking after his Pop.
Noah Huxley is a brand new, fresh faced patrol officer. His optimism is often mistaken for naivety by his new co-workers, but Noah won't let that http him from trying his best to rehabilitate his parolees. Among his parolees is CJ Davis, who has a huge chip on his shoulder, but nonetheless Noah sees him differently than the other officers. Despite his bad rap, Noah wants to help CJ into a better future and is hopeful that CJ is different from his criminal family. Instead of turning away from his bad attitude, Noah works away at breaking through the armour that CJ constantly wears. Noah goes above and beyond for this particular parolee, which may have something to do with his growing personal attachment to CJ.
I am so pleasantly surprised with how this book turned out. This was definitely an impulse read for me, and I had absolutely no expectations going into this book. Despite this, I had a seriously enjoyable time reading this book and delving into this gorgeous relationship. This book was surprisingly emotional and touching, which I wasn't expecting at all. Some moments were just so sad I was closed to tears, and others were just so beautiful that it made my heart flutter. CJ was definitely not in a good position at the start of this book, and his growth through the novel was amazing to read about. I was fully invested in this story right from the beginning, as I felt so much for these two men.
Reading the synopsis of this book, I was convinced that CJ would be your usual 'bad boy' type character. Now, I enjoy this trope as much as the next romance reader, but I am also really happy when this book diverged from this more cliche path. CJ definitely had a chip on his shoulder, but he was complex and much more vulnerable than I expected. As Noah got to know CJ more, his softer and sweeter side was revealed, making him such a loveable character. CJ also spent so much time looking after his Pop, the reader could tell from very really on that he was good natured and very kind. In the relationship sense, he was also less dominant than Noah, which I didn't expect to be the case. All in all, I just fell in love with CJ and couldn't help but want the best for him from the very beginning.
This was definitely a character driven novel. The plot was strong and steady throughout the book, but the characters were what kept me hooked. Both Noah and CJ were immensely likeable and interesting characters as well as being quite unique , especially for this genre. Their relationship only grew stronger throughout the novel, keeping me captivated in their story. They had such a strong emotional connection, but there was also an inferno of chemistry between the pair. This was brought on by the forbidden aspect of the story, which I enjoyed a lot.
Of course, I also appreciated the Australian aspect of the story. It is very rare that I read books set in my country, and I am sure that I can count them on one hand. In this way, I just really enjoyed the use of more colloquial Australian slang which had me grinning at the familiarity of it.
“If he was fire, I was gasoline. As soon as we touched, we became something else.”
I only began delving into the world of M/M romance this year, and I have been loving every minute of it. This book only strengthened my growing obsession with M/M romance as it was sweet, emotional and heartwarming. I was expecting a more angst-filled story, but I was surprised with the path that this book took, away from what I was expecting. The story was much more gut-wrenching than I expected, which made for one emotional ride. I was addicted to this story from the very beginning, as both of the characters were dynamic, intriguing and loveable. I also really loved how this book was set in Australia and it was enjoyable to read the familiar slang, which I don't often find in the books I read. I highly recommend On Davis Row, especially for lovers of this genre.
Nobody ever expected CJ Davis to have a bright future. He is poor and living in a run-down town. His entire family have a long history of criminal offences, with his immediate family being in prison. To further his unfortunate circumstances, CJ himself is on a suspended sentence from jail. His reputation amongst the police and his town are bad and he is dubbed to be on 'Davis Row', a nickname given to his family and the very street he lives on. It seems that CJ has almost given up on trying to clear his name, except for the fact that he is responsible for looking after his Pop.
Noah Huxley is a brand new, fresh faced patrol officer. His optimism is often mistaken for naivety by his new co-workers, but Noah won't let that http him from trying his best to rehabilitate his parolees. Among his parolees is CJ Davis, who has a huge chip on his shoulder, but nonetheless Noah sees him differently than the other officers. Despite his bad rap, Noah wants to help CJ into a better future and is hopeful that CJ is different from his criminal family. Instead of turning away from his bad attitude, Noah works away at breaking through the armour that CJ constantly wears. Noah goes above and beyond for this particular parolee, which may have something to do with his growing personal attachment to CJ.
"Fierce, strong, safe, and everything — everything — I needed. I melted against him and could literally feel him mending the broken pieces of my heart, putting me back together again."
I am so pleasantly surprised with how this book turned out. This was definitely an impulse read for me, and I had absolutely no expectations going into this book. Despite this, I had a seriously enjoyable time reading this book and delving into this gorgeous relationship. This book was surprisingly emotional and touching, which I wasn't expecting at all. Some moments were just so sad I was closed to tears, and others were just so beautiful that it made my heart flutter. CJ was definitely not in a good position at the start of this book, and his growth through the novel was amazing to read about. I was fully invested in this story right from the beginning, as I felt so much for these two men.
Reading the synopsis of this book, I was convinced that CJ would be your usual 'bad boy' type character. Now, I enjoy this trope as much as the next romance reader, but I am also really happy when this book diverged from this more cliche path. CJ definitely had a chip on his shoulder, but he was complex and much more vulnerable than I expected. As Noah got to know CJ more, his softer and sweeter side was revealed, making him such a loveable character. CJ also spent so much time looking after his Pop, the reader could tell from very really on that he was good natured and very kind. In the relationship sense, he was also less dominant than Noah, which I didn't expect to be the case. All in all, I just fell in love with CJ and couldn't help but want the best for him from the very beginning.
“I couldn’t explain it—I didn’t know the words—but there were sparks, heat, fire; consuming, raging fire. I wanted him like I’d never wanted anyone, or anything, ever."
This was definitely a character driven novel. The plot was strong and steady throughout the book, but the characters were what kept me hooked. Both Noah and CJ were immensely likeable and interesting characters as well as being quite unique , especially for this genre. Their relationship only grew stronger throughout the novel, keeping me captivated in their story. They had such a strong emotional connection, but there was also an inferno of chemistry between the pair. This was brought on by the forbidden aspect of the story, which I enjoyed a lot.
Of course, I also appreciated the Australian aspect of the story. It is very rare that I read books set in my country, and I am sure that I can count them on one hand. In this way, I just really enjoyed the use of more colloquial Australian slang which had me grinning at the familiarity of it.
March 27, 2022
4.5 rounded up. You were all right! I inhaled this one, it was amazing and really hit the spot. The relationship development is stellar in this one. It is slow but meaningful and genuine. You can feel the love and heat between them. I really loved both MCs and don't get me started on Pops. I wish we had gotten to know about his background but it was great. The plot moved along nicely and you can't help but feel for both guys. My only niggle is spoilery . The ending made me tear up so I highly recommend this one. You can count on NR Walker to deliver. I'm pacing myself going through her backlist but I'm quickly running out of books.
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