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Tigers and Devils #4
Tigers on the Way
Sequel to Tigers on the Run
Documentary producer Simon and ex-footballer Declan are taking some big steps toward a lasting life together. They’ve bought a house, and they’ll need it for the family they plan to start. Their friend, Nyssa, has made the generous offer to be their surrogate, and Declan couldn’t be more excited about the idea of a baby.
Simon knows fatherhood is a huge commitment, and though it’s daunting, he sees how much Dec wants it, and he’s sure that together, they can succeed in anything—despite the worries nagging at him.
But just as their new life is taking shape, a health scare disrupts their plans at the worst possible moment. With time running short, Simon and Dec will have to bare their fears and doubts to each other so they can face them before their world changes forever.
It might mean a literal leap of faith.
Documentary producer Simon and ex-footballer Declan are taking some big steps toward a lasting life together. They’ve bought a house, and they’ll need it for the family they plan to start. Their friend, Nyssa, has made the generous offer to be their surrogate, and Declan couldn’t be more excited about the idea of a baby.
Simon knows fatherhood is a huge commitment, and though it’s daunting, he sees how much Dec wants it, and he’s sure that together, they can succeed in anything—despite the worries nagging at him.
But just as their new life is taking shape, a health scare disrupts their plans at the worst possible moment. With time running short, Simon and Dec will have to bare their fears and doubts to each other so they can face them before their world changes forever.
It might mean a literal leap of faith.
236 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2019
46 people are currently reading
519 people want to read
About the author
Sean Kennedy
43 books1,014 followersSean Kennedy lives in the second-most isolated city in the world, thinks there are thylacines still out in the wild, and eagerly awaits the return of Twin Peaks in 2017.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 122 reviews
April 5, 2024
This was the most romantic and the most touching and emotional in the series. Unfortunately it’s also the last one . I laughed and cried and got mad and then laughed again and so on because, of course…Simon and Declan 🥹🥹🥹🥹. I wish more ppl read this wonderful series .
I also wonder why the author stopped writing..
I also wonder why the author stopped writing..
March 5, 2022
3.5 Stars!!
What a send off for Simon and Declan!
These two have made a commitment and have taken the next step into adulthood, having decided to become dads. Aww. So one would only expect when it comes to Simon and his neuroses, he’s his own worst enemy. Everyone and their quirky selves makes an appearance along with a health scare, a run in with a ghost, and a psychic getting up in their business.
This goes without saying that this has all the snark you could want, and I was highly entertained and admittedly, got choked up a few times with the sentimental emotions that Simon and Declan go through.
A very life affirming grand finale for these two!
What a send off for Simon and Declan!
These two have made a commitment and have taken the next step into adulthood, having decided to become dads. Aww. So one would only expect when it comes to Simon and his neuroses, he’s his own worst enemy. Everyone and their quirky selves makes an appearance along with a health scare, a run in with a ghost, and a psychic getting up in their business.
This goes without saying that this has all the snark you could want, and I was highly entertained and admittedly, got choked up a few times with the sentimental emotions that Simon and Declan go through.
A very life affirming grand finale for these two!
August 1, 2024
4.5 Stars
My personal favourite of the Tigers and Devils series, this fourth instalment brought ALL THE FEELS, reminding me exactly why Simon and Dec will always be one of my favourite M/M couples.
Almost a decade into their very publicized relationship, Simon Murray and his ex-AFL superstar fiancée, Declan Tyler, are in a great place both personally and professionally.
Simon now has his own documentary film company that’s finding its feet and Dec is busy running his LGBT focused youth program to great success. Upgrading to a bigger home is just the beginning for these two lovebirds, who soon plan to extend their family by having a child of their own through surrogacy.
All in all, things are going great for the couple—that is, until Simon suffers a serious health crisis that rattles their happy and peaceful existence and throws all their grand future plans into question.
I loved the trajectory of this story. Although I hated seeing Simon go through his health scare, I appreciated the seriousness of the matter and found the way it played out both emotional and realistic. Even though the experiences and the contradictory reactions had Si and Dec at odds at times, it was always crystal clear where they were coming from and how much each character loved the other.
While dealing with health and wellness to a large degree, this book was still very much a feel-good, positive-vibe romance, with some great little (and grand) moments between Si and Dec, and also between each of them and their dearest friends and family, all of whom make plenty of appearances, perfectly rounding out the large cast of Aussie characters.
Once again, I adored the Melbourne setting. There really is something to be said about books written by people who so intimately know the people and places you yourself intimately know. As a romance reader and a Melbourne girl, born and raised, I can honestly say I never get the chance to read decent romances set in my home city, so this series sits in a special place of my heart that I treasure and adore.
Although this story wrapped up Si and Dec’s story in a very perfect and satisfying way, I still wouldn’t say no to reading more about them, as it’s always a welcomed treat for me to revisit beloved book couples, if given the chance.
If you haven’t read this series, be sure to give it some consideration. You might just fall in love with Si and Dec the way I have. <3
My personal favourite of the Tigers and Devils series, this fourth instalment brought ALL THE FEELS, reminding me exactly why Simon and Dec will always be one of my favourite M/M couples.
Almost a decade into their very publicized relationship, Simon Murray and his ex-AFL superstar fiancée, Declan Tyler, are in a great place both personally and professionally.
Simon now has his own documentary film company that’s finding its feet and Dec is busy running his LGBT focused youth program to great success. Upgrading to a bigger home is just the beginning for these two lovebirds, who soon plan to extend their family by having a child of their own through surrogacy.
All in all, things are going great for the couple—that is, until Simon suffers a serious health crisis that rattles their happy and peaceful existence and throws all their grand future plans into question.
I loved the trajectory of this story. Although I hated seeing Simon go through his health scare, I appreciated the seriousness of the matter and found the way it played out both emotional and realistic. Even though the experiences and the contradictory reactions had Si and Dec at odds at times, it was always crystal clear where they were coming from and how much each character loved the other.
While dealing with health and wellness to a large degree, this book was still very much a feel-good, positive-vibe romance, with some great little (and grand) moments between Si and Dec, and also between each of them and their dearest friends and family, all of whom make plenty of appearances, perfectly rounding out the large cast of Aussie characters.
Once again, I adored the Melbourne setting. There really is something to be said about books written by people who so intimately know the people and places you yourself intimately know. As a romance reader and a Melbourne girl, born and raised, I can honestly say I never get the chance to read decent romances set in my home city, so this series sits in a special place of my heart that I treasure and adore.
Although this story wrapped up Si and Dec’s story in a very perfect and satisfying way, I still wouldn’t say no to reading more about them, as it’s always a welcomed treat for me to revisit beloved book couples, if given the chance.
If you haven’t read this series, be sure to give it some consideration. You might just fall in love with Si and Dec the way I have. <3
January 4, 2019
Simon and Declan are one of my favorite couples, and it's like spending time with old friends to watch them go through another chapter in their lives. As the author points out in the forward, marriage equality has now finally come to Australia, but this story is set before that time. (Which gives us the pleasure of anticipating another book or two for these guys.)
Although the love between Simon and Dec is strong and solid, that doesn't mean they don't have arguments, misunderstandings, worries and lack of communication. Simon is still sharp and sarcastic, and all too likely to handle difficult moments by pushing people away and hiding emotions with a joke or a deflection. Declan is still a bit likely to take things at face value and not see the vulnerability Simon is covering up. They hurt each other without meaning to, in very realistic ways.
There is a lot of humor threaded through the story, some of it Simon lobbing dark jokes, as they face strains related to major upheavals in their lives. They deeply want the child Nyssa is offering to carry for them, but like every other parent, they (and particularly Simon) go through moments of wondering if they can really be everything a child needs. And the health scare highlights the differences in how they cope with hard times. (As an optimistic introvert, I'm with Simon all the way, even as I can see Dec's point.) But the love between them shines through, in every moment of stress and of joy, even when they're angry at each other.
We get a little time with favorite secondary characters (notably Roger and Fran) but this book is very much about the relationship these two men are building, and how it is both stressed and made stronger by what they go through. The level of emotion is well-judged, neither trivialized not angsty, and there were times when I sympathized more with each of the guys, keeping me engaged with both of them. A very good addition to the series, and makes me eager for more.
Although the love between Simon and Dec is strong and solid, that doesn't mean they don't have arguments, misunderstandings, worries and lack of communication. Simon is still sharp and sarcastic, and all too likely to handle difficult moments by pushing people away and hiding emotions with a joke or a deflection. Declan is still a bit likely to take things at face value and not see the vulnerability Simon is covering up. They hurt each other without meaning to, in very realistic ways.
There is a lot of humor threaded through the story, some of it Simon lobbing dark jokes, as they face strains related to major upheavals in their lives. They deeply want the child Nyssa is offering to carry for them, but like every other parent, they (and particularly Simon) go through moments of wondering if they can really be everything a child needs. And the health scare highlights the differences in how they cope with hard times. (As an optimistic introvert, I'm with Simon all the way, even as I can see Dec's point.) But the love between them shines through, in every moment of stress and of joy, even when they're angry at each other.
We get a little time with favorite secondary characters (notably Roger and Fran) but this book is very much about the relationship these two men are building, and how it is both stressed and made stronger by what they go through. The level of emotion is well-judged, neither trivialized not angsty, and there were times when I sympathized more with each of the guys, keeping me engaged with both of them. A very good addition to the series, and makes me eager for more.
April 4, 2024
Re-read
Still agree with my original review! I would happily read another four books about Simon and Dec. I cried the whole way through this again and I feel so attached to Simon Murray. Definitely one of my all time favourite characters and series.
*******
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that it ended! Simon is one of my favourite characters ever and he made me cry so much in this one. Simon and Dec are so well suited. I'd read so many books about these guys and their friends.
Still agree with my original review! I would happily read another four books about Simon and Dec. I cried the whole way through this again and I feel so attached to Simon Murray. Definitely one of my all time favourite characters and series.
*******
The only thing I didn't like about this book is that it ended! Simon is one of my favourite characters ever and he made me cry so much in this one. Simon and Dec are so well suited. I'd read so many books about these guys and their friends.
January 1, 2019
4.5 stars!
Simon and Declan is one of my first MM couples that I read almost a decade ago. They ALWAYS have special place in my heart. I’m trying not to spoil much in this review, because I think the joy of reading Simon and Declan this time around, is to experience the ups and downs that happen along with them.
If you have read book #3, you know that Simon’s good friend Nyssa suggested the idea of surrogacy to Simon and Declan. In this book, they are taking that next step – which also include buying a new house! – to expand their family. As always Simon entertains me with how he approaches this new phase on his life. The scene where both men go to the clinic to deposit their sperm, for example, is such delight to read.
BUT, prepare yourself because there’s a surprise coming as well. The blurb of this book mentions health scare, so that’s all I can say about what kind of surprise it is. But, it was something that made me sit up and paid attention.
What if you are not sure about what you want, but before you’re comfortable with your decision, the option is taken away from you?
This book explored that – from Simon’s perspective, with his trademark of snark. His way of dealing with it may frustrate you as a reader, just like it does Declan and Simon’s family and friends. But that what makes Simon, Simon, you know? And I won’t have it any other way.
When I reached the ending, I thought, "this was a book with story line that I didn't know I needed". It made me think about that difficult journey for same-sex couple to get their family. Personally, I thought it was the best Simon's and Declan's book so far, in terms of seeing how they grew up as individuals and as a couple.
I really hope that Kennedy will finally get to the historic December 2017 timeline, when Australia parliament finally legalized same-sex marriage in the Land Down Under. Just FYI, this book sets in 2016.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
Simon and Declan is one of my first MM couples that I read almost a decade ago. They ALWAYS have special place in my heart. I’m trying not to spoil much in this review, because I think the joy of reading Simon and Declan this time around, is to experience the ups and downs that happen along with them.
If you have read book #3, you know that Simon’s good friend Nyssa suggested the idea of surrogacy to Simon and Declan. In this book, they are taking that next step – which also include buying a new house! – to expand their family. As always Simon entertains me with how he approaches this new phase on his life. The scene where both men go to the clinic to deposit their sperm, for example, is such delight to read.
BUT, prepare yourself because there’s a surprise coming as well. The blurb of this book mentions health scare, so that’s all I can say about what kind of surprise it is. But, it was something that made me sit up and paid attention.
What if you are not sure about what you want, but before you’re comfortable with your decision, the option is taken away from you?
This book explored that – from Simon’s perspective, with his trademark of snark. His way of dealing with it may frustrate you as a reader, just like it does Declan and Simon’s family and friends. But that what makes Simon, Simon, you know? And I won’t have it any other way.
When I reached the ending, I thought, "this was a book with story line that I didn't know I needed". It made me think about that difficult journey for same-sex couple to get their family. Personally, I thought it was the best Simon's and Declan's book so far, in terms of seeing how they grew up as individuals and as a couple.
I really hope that Kennedy will finally get to the historic December 2017 timeline, when Australia parliament finally legalized same-sex marriage in the Land Down Under. Just FYI, this book sets in 2016.
A Guest Review for The Blogger Girls
The ARC is provided by the publisher for an exchange of fair and honest review. No high rating is required for any ARC received.
August 9, 2024
I so wanted my first completed read of 2019 to be the great forerunner of wonderful reads to come for the rest of the year...if Tigers on the Way is any indication, I'm chuffed to bits to say that there won't be as many re-reads in my immediate future 🤞.
I'm not going into any great detail really...just know that Simon is finally having to pull his big boy pants up and face the future head on because of...reasons, SERIOUS reasons. Some of the decisions made at this time are questionable to say the least, but emotions and feelings are running the sh*t show that evolves...and Simon still isn't particularly used to behaving like an actual grown-up 🙄. Dec is just Dec...sighs 💖 [just like Otter Thompson 💖], and Roger and Fran are as wonderful [and silly] as usual. Nyssa, Simon's former PA and his and Dec's friend and surrogate, and her family feature quite strongly in this one obviously AND just because I can, I'm posting this pic below to give some indication of what Si and Dec get up to whilst visiting Nyssa and her family in NZ [hopefully one of these days, I'll do exactly the same thing]. 5 stars from me, and thank you so much Sean for this unexpected but very welcome Xmas present AND of course the hint of more Simon and Dec stories to come...yay!! 💖💜💛💚💙
I'm not going into any great detail really...just know that Simon is finally having to pull his big boy pants up and face the future head on because of...reasons, SERIOUS reasons. Some of the decisions made at this time are questionable to say the least, but emotions and feelings are running the sh*t show that evolves...and Simon still isn't particularly used to behaving like an actual grown-up 🙄. Dec is just Dec...sighs 💖 [just like Otter Thompson 💖], and Roger and Fran are as wonderful [and silly] as usual. Nyssa, Simon's former PA and his and Dec's friend and surrogate, and her family feature quite strongly in this one obviously AND just because I can, I'm posting this pic below to give some indication of what Si and Dec get up to whilst visiting Nyssa and her family in NZ [hopefully one of these days, I'll do exactly the same thing]. 5 stars from me, and thank you so much Sean for this unexpected but very welcome Xmas present AND of course the hint of more Simon and Dec stories to come...yay!! 💖💜💛💚💙
January 19, 2022
I just... I just... I just!!! Love!!!
This entire cast of characters drew me in during the first story of this series and they continue their gloriously bossy ways here in the fourth.
Simon n Dec, the depths of their love *and* their friendship, they're all in the most capable and caring hands of this author. There are no barriers, nuttin, that come between me and them, and I'm the better for it. :D
Maggie the cat is a master. Y'all know it's the truth.
Roger and Fran are the best friends *and* foils to Simon and Declan. The teasing, the honesty, and the unconditional support they all bandy about make me feel so good. That's the crux of it, I feel good when spending time with these peeps. Even when they're hurting, or they've hurt each other, or feel hopeless or lost, I still feel good... because I get it. And Kennedy makes sure that I can, and do. That's a top notch storyteller, yo.
Nyssa and her hubby, Paddy, Coby and Jasper - yes, even Jasper -, various parents and siblings, they're all walking literary adverts for meaty characterization.
This story is one of the best in making me wanna let the tears roll while cackling with the belly laughs in the same joyous hiccup-y moment.
The only ONLY "disappointment" in this story is that more of these characters didn't get more page time. More Maggie! More Simon's fam! More Roger n Simon!
More everything! But this is the kinda letdown I'll suffer every damn day of the week if I get to exist inside a story and with characters like this.
Oh also, the bantering is top notch. Tops, I tells ya, tops.
Just like Dec, I wanna do this again!
This entire cast of characters drew me in during the first story of this series and they continue their gloriously bossy ways here in the fourth.
Simon n Dec, the depths of their love *and* their friendship, they're all in the most capable and caring hands of this author. There are no barriers, nuttin, that come between me and them, and I'm the better for it. :D
Maggie the cat is a master. Y'all know it's the truth.
Roger and Fran are the best friends *and* foils to Simon and Declan. The teasing, the honesty, and the unconditional support they all bandy about make me feel so good. That's the crux of it, I feel good when spending time with these peeps. Even when they're hurting, or they've hurt each other, or feel hopeless or lost, I still feel good... because I get it. And Kennedy makes sure that I can, and do. That's a top notch storyteller, yo.
Nyssa and her hubby, Paddy, Coby and Jasper - yes, even Jasper -, various parents and siblings, they're all walking literary adverts for meaty characterization.
This story is one of the best in making me wanna let the tears roll while cackling with the belly laughs in the same joyous hiccup-y moment.
The only ONLY "disappointment" in this story is that more of these characters didn't get more page time. More Maggie! More Simon's fam! More Roger n Simon!
More everything! But this is the kinda letdown I'll suffer every damn day of the week if I get to exist inside a story and with characters like this.
Oh also, the bantering is top notch. Tops, I tells ya, tops.
Just like Dec, I wanna do this again!
January 3, 2019
Returning to the "Tigers and Devils" series by Sean Kennedy is like catching up with old friends. Fran and Roger are busy with their kids, Nyssa has volunteered to be a surrogate for Simon and Dec, and almost eight years on, Dec and Simon are still madly in love and driving each other crazy at times:
We are left at the end of the book with them on the cusp of a new phase of their lives, and I sincerely hope we get another episode into their lives (and possible marriage since this book is set in 2016 prior to Australia passing their same-sex marriage law in in 2017.) 5 stars and a recommended read for "Tigers on the Way."
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
"You're up to something," he said over lunch. "I don't know what it is, but I guess I'll find out soon enough."Dec and Simon have bought a new house (a converted firehouse with the fireman's pole ... and possibly a ghost) and are ready to embark on parenthood when Simon's health scare shakes them to the core:
"I'm not up to anything." I replied, trying to look as innocent as possible sipping my coffee. "I'm just trying to make your life easier."
"Why start now?" he mused.
It was banter like this that sustained us, and often showed the true emotion we felt for each other. When Dec said why start now, what he meant was "I like our life together. I wouldn't want any other person in the world, just you."
If it was happening to Dec. It almost made my knees buckle beneath me, and I finally understood how he felt. The thought of the person I loved more than anybody in the world and who I relied upon for so many things to get through this life - the thought of Dec being sick without a single thing I could do about it - made me want to vomit.I don't want to reveal too much but it's worth every tear and every moment you want to knock Simon alongside the head and tell him to stop being so goddamned unreasonable: "I hated exposing my feelings to my family. It was all part of growing up in the closet. You got so used to safeguarding your own truth, it was actually injurious to your mental health if you being letting go." The thing I love about Dec and Simon is that they are gloriously imperfect (well, Simon more than Dec, definitely) but they are perfect for each other.
We are left at the end of the book with them on the cusp of a new phase of their lives, and I sincerely hope we get another episode into their lives (and possible marriage since this book is set in 2016 prior to Australia passing their same-sex marriage law in in 2017.) 5 stars and a recommended read for "Tigers on the Way."
I received an ARC from Dreamspinner Press in exchange for an honest review.
Review posted at Gay Book Reviews - check it out!
April 14, 2019
As far as I am concerned, there can never be enough stories about Simon, the snarky documentary producer, and Declan, the hunky ex-AFL player, not to mention all their friends and quirky family. I’ve said it before and it is still true, so the publication of this fourth book made me very happy. While their relationship is pretty secure, except for the occasional wobble that every couple goes through, I couldn’t help but worry about issues caused by a serious health scare. I mean, how do you deal with that as a couple? The author’s perspective was completely true to Simon and Declan’s characters, very realistic, and by the time Simon got to actually be understanding about Declan’s reactions, I was really worried. True to the essence of this series, one major crisis is not all Simon and Declan have to deal with, and the result is an emotional roller coaster of the first degree.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
Please find my full review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
January 4, 2019
5 stars
So good! It's pretty amazing that the fourth book in a series could make me smile and laugh so much (and shed a few tears too)!
So good! It's pretty amazing that the fourth book in a series could make me smile and laugh so much (and shed a few tears too)!
January 6, 2019
I wanted to love this. I was so excited for it. Unfortunately more things didn't work for me than what did. It was great to see Simon and Declan and their friends again and some of the scenes were heart warming. Some were funny.
Most of it though was not good for me. The plot went on and on and I was bored and skimmed huge parts from 30% on.
Simon was a jerk. Normally I find Simon's snark really funny. As someone is a snarky asshole myself, I can relate to him in a lot of ways. In this though he was just mean. Declan is really struggling and repeatedly asks Simon to take things more seriously but he doesn't. He makes Declan cry more than once with his harshness.
There were excessive "I love you's". Seriously. They said it at least every page, maybe more. I'm too lazy to search how many times but it felt like 100x.
There were quite a few editing issues. Normally I overlook these but I was already annoyed so they kept standing out. Plus, this wasn't an ARC. I paid for this. I expect better from a mainstream publisher.
There was lot's of social justice warrioring. If you're up for a lecture on toxic masculinity or any number of other things you'll find them here. I can't really fault an author for this. It's their book, their right, but it annoys the ever loving F out of me. It's just preaching to the choir imo. I read to escape all this. Especially in the turbulent world we're in right now. I realize many don't agree w me so if you dig that in your books you may enjoy this aspect of it.
All this stuff happens. All of it leading up to the kid part. Then it stops right before that happens. Seriously? I read all that to get to the kid part but then don't get to see it? I gotta call BS on that.
You should probably take this review with a grain of salt as it looks like most people loved this. For me though? This was a giant fail. I'm only giving it three starts cuz it's Dec and Simon.
Most of it though was not good for me. The plot went on and on and I was bored and skimmed huge parts from 30% on.
Simon was a jerk. Normally I find Simon's snark really funny. As someone is a snarky asshole myself, I can relate to him in a lot of ways. In this though he was just mean. Declan is really struggling and repeatedly asks Simon to take things more seriously but he doesn't. He makes Declan cry more than once with his harshness.
There were excessive "I love you's". Seriously. They said it at least every page, maybe more. I'm too lazy to search how many times but it felt like 100x.
There were quite a few editing issues. Normally I overlook these but I was already annoyed so they kept standing out. Plus, this wasn't an ARC. I paid for this. I expect better from a mainstream publisher.
There was lot's of social justice warrioring. If you're up for a lecture on toxic masculinity or any number of other things you'll find them here. I can't really fault an author for this. It's their book, their right, but it annoys the ever loving F out of me. It's just preaching to the choir imo. I read to escape all this. Especially in the turbulent world we're in right now. I realize many don't agree w me so if you dig that in your books you may enjoy this aspect of it.
All this stuff happens. All of it leading up to the kid part. Then it stops right before that happens. Seriously? I read all that to get to the kid part but then don't get to see it? I gotta call BS on that.
You should probably take this review with a grain of salt as it looks like most people loved this. For me though? This was a giant fail. I'm only giving it three starts cuz it's Dec and Simon.
January 9, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Simon and Declan are back and it is glorious! Sean Kennedy has released the fourth book in his Tigers & Devils series, Tigers on the Way. The story picks up a short time after their engagement and is set prior to Australia approving same sex marriage. The guys have decided to stop putting their lives on hold when it comes to having children. Fans of this series will remember sweet, slightly otherworldly Nyssa, Simon’s former work partner, who has agreed to be their surrogate. With Simon’s usual flair for making anything funny and Declan as the straight man foil, we watch the two navigate some pretty choppy waters to achieve fatherhood. As Simon warns us in the Forward, there is no miracle marriage here, but there is a story that tears off racing toward a breathless finish.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Simon and Declan are back and it is glorious! Sean Kennedy has released the fourth book in his Tigers & Devils series, Tigers on the Way. The story picks up a short time after their engagement and is set prior to Australia approving same sex marriage. The guys have decided to stop putting their lives on hold when it comes to having children. Fans of this series will remember sweet, slightly otherworldly Nyssa, Simon’s former work partner, who has agreed to be their surrogate. With Simon’s usual flair for making anything funny and Declan as the straight man foil, we watch the two navigate some pretty choppy waters to achieve fatherhood. As Simon warns us in the Forward, there is no miracle marriage here, but there is a story that tears off racing toward a breathless finish.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
December 29, 2019
Medical warning:
Children:
I enjoyed getting to spend time again with Simon and Dec. They're the same doofuses they were back in Tigers & Devils, but they've also grown much more mature in their relationship. Don't get me wrong, Simon can still be a stubborn git. But they work through their problems together, and even when they were fighting and disagreeing, there was never any doubt they were in it for the long haul. They found various ways of showing their support and love for each other, even when things got tense.
I thought the first half was stronger than the second half. Once the medical issues were dealt with, the story felt like it lost some of its punch and focus. The grocery story psychic and possible ghost haunting certainly didn't help, though the gang pretending to be Scooby Doo was a funny bit. Simon had a lot to come to terms with in the second half, so having these distractions maybe was a way for him to do that, but it made the story feel less cohesive for me. It also didn't help that there were characters from the Micah series that popped up now and again, and I haven't read any of those.
Still, the guys end in a good, solid place, ready to embark on the next adventure in their life, and I look forward to reading it someday.
Children:
I enjoyed getting to spend time again with Simon and Dec. They're the same doofuses they were back in Tigers & Devils, but they've also grown much more mature in their relationship. Don't get me wrong, Simon can still be a stubborn git. But they work through their problems together, and even when they were fighting and disagreeing, there was never any doubt they were in it for the long haul. They found various ways of showing their support and love for each other, even when things got tense.
I thought the first half was stronger than the second half. Once the medical issues were dealt with, the story felt like it lost some of its punch and focus. The grocery story psychic and possible ghost haunting certainly didn't help, though the gang pretending to be Scooby Doo was a funny bit. Simon had a lot to come to terms with in the second half, so having these distractions maybe was a way for him to do that, but it made the story feel less cohesive for me. It also didn't help that there were characters from the Micah series that popped up now and again, and I haven't read any of those.
Still, the guys end in a good, solid place, ready to embark on the next adventure in their life, and I look forward to reading it someday.
January 19, 2019
*enf* (mutter)
This book is as good as the rest in the series, and in much the same vein as the rest of the series, so if you love the earlier ones, you will like (or love) this.
This book has many elements that press my buttons. Reproduction, Babies and children and related emoting, football and related emoting, and stupid inappropriate friends and family and related emoting.
So, yuck, basically.
This book is as good as the rest in the series, and in much the same vein as the rest of the series, so if you love the earlier ones, you will like (or love) this.
This book has many elements that press my buttons. Reproduction, Babies and children and related emoting, football and related emoting, and stupid inappropriate friends and family and related emoting.
So, yuck, basically.
March 5, 2019
Tigers on the Way
BY Sean Kennedy
Dreamspinner Press, 2019
Five stars
Yikes, I bought the first book in this series, “Tigers and Devils,” in 2012, which was first published in 2009…long before I owned a Kindle or started writing reviews. So clearly, for Sean Kennedy, whoever he really is in his isolated town in Australia, this story is a long, slow burn.
The saga of Declan Tyler and Simon Murray started out in a classic gay romance way. A decade after that first book was published, their story has moved far, far away from the “closeted celebrity jock falls for nerdy gay film buff” paradigm of the first book. The thing is, all the good stuff about that first book – its humor, its emotional weight, its tender, detailed characterization of Dec, Simon, and all their friends and family – has carried on. Everything that gave this book its impact for me has simply matured and ripened.
Seven years into their relationship, Simon and Declan find themselves in a position lots of gay couples have faced – the desire to have children, to make a family of more than two. Declan’s celebrity status still has its effect on their daily lives, but they’re used to that. It is still only 2016, before Australia finally legalized same-sex marriages, and so our two still-young men have to face this goal as my husband and I did, without the benefit of legal sanction of their relationship.
Wanting to be a parent is not an automatic decision, especially when it involves a lot of hard work and complicated emotional choices. Especially not when a medical surprise adds a painful shift in perspective. How lovely it is to see two men in their early thirties still considering themselves to be boys (and not maundering about getting old, blah blah blah), and thinking seriously about the ramifications of parenthood. But also how lovely to see them bolstered by their straight friends from way back in book one – friends who now have families of their own, and who have incorporated Declan and Simon into their lives as deeply as anyone could wish.
Declan is still kind of an unfairly awesome jock god, and Simon is still kind of an insecure pissy jerk (sometimes). However, instead of a seven-year-itch in their relationship, we see that it has solidified into something that will stand the test of time. As the plotline moves them toward fatherhood, the main action is really their interactions with each other and their friends, as they face fears, fight and make up, and settle into a deeper understanding of what it means to be a couple.
There is no on-page sex, so this is not m/m. This is real life (in Australia!) at its romantic best.
BY Sean Kennedy
Dreamspinner Press, 2019
Five stars
Yikes, I bought the first book in this series, “Tigers and Devils,” in 2012, which was first published in 2009…long before I owned a Kindle or started writing reviews. So clearly, for Sean Kennedy, whoever he really is in his isolated town in Australia, this story is a long, slow burn.
The saga of Declan Tyler and Simon Murray started out in a classic gay romance way. A decade after that first book was published, their story has moved far, far away from the “closeted celebrity jock falls for nerdy gay film buff” paradigm of the first book. The thing is, all the good stuff about that first book – its humor, its emotional weight, its tender, detailed characterization of Dec, Simon, and all their friends and family – has carried on. Everything that gave this book its impact for me has simply matured and ripened.
Seven years into their relationship, Simon and Declan find themselves in a position lots of gay couples have faced – the desire to have children, to make a family of more than two. Declan’s celebrity status still has its effect on their daily lives, but they’re used to that. It is still only 2016, before Australia finally legalized same-sex marriages, and so our two still-young men have to face this goal as my husband and I did, without the benefit of legal sanction of their relationship.
Wanting to be a parent is not an automatic decision, especially when it involves a lot of hard work and complicated emotional choices. Especially not when a medical surprise adds a painful shift in perspective. How lovely it is to see two men in their early thirties still considering themselves to be boys (and not maundering about getting old, blah blah blah), and thinking seriously about the ramifications of parenthood. But also how lovely to see them bolstered by their straight friends from way back in book one – friends who now have families of their own, and who have incorporated Declan and Simon into their lives as deeply as anyone could wish.
Declan is still kind of an unfairly awesome jock god, and Simon is still kind of an insecure pissy jerk (sometimes). However, instead of a seven-year-itch in their relationship, we see that it has solidified into something that will stand the test of time. As the plotline moves them toward fatherhood, the main action is really their interactions with each other and their friends, as they face fears, fight and make up, and settle into a deeper understanding of what it means to be a couple.
There is no on-page sex, so this is not m/m. This is real life (in Australia!) at its romantic best.
March 28, 2019
Tigers on the Way
Why did I let this sit on my shelf for more than one hour? I had forgotten the goodness that is Simon Murray and his partner, former “footie” Declan Tyler. All the feels I had when reading their previous three stories came rushing back within the first 10% of starting this new adventure with them.
I read the first two books in 2012 and the third when it came out in 2015, and I can say nearly the same thing about each of them: there’s a depth of emotion and shared moments of love and unity between these two men. Simon and Declan are unforgettable simply because they are so very real—rock steady, down to earth guys who bring life to the pages of my e-reader and take me away to their world during the time they share a glimpse of their lives with me.
In this one, the men suffer a health scare at the same time they are planning to expand their family with the help of Simon’s BFF, Nyssa and her husband Paddy. Coby is still on-scene as Simon’s assistant in his new business and his partner, Jasper, even makes an appearance. In fact, there’s somewhat of a reconciliation between Simon and Jasper, though neither would admit to ever becoming close to the other. Roger and Fran, and a host of secondary characters from past stories play an important role as all come together to lend a shoulder to Simon and Dec as they reach the lowest of lows and the highest of highs.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the humor in this story. Honestly, I laughed so hard, tears rolled down my cheeks and I couldn’t catch my breath—and not just once—frequently throughout the story. Sean Kennedy’s humor, mostly shown through Simon, comes through loud and clear. It’s life on life’s terms, but it’s not a pity party, by any means.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series to all lovers of MM romance.
#established couples, #humor, #hurt-comfort, #non-explicit, #sports, #surprises
Why did I let this sit on my shelf for more than one hour? I had forgotten the goodness that is Simon Murray and his partner, former “footie” Declan Tyler. All the feels I had when reading their previous three stories came rushing back within the first 10% of starting this new adventure with them.
I read the first two books in 2012 and the third when it came out in 2015, and I can say nearly the same thing about each of them: there’s a depth of emotion and shared moments of love and unity between these two men. Simon and Declan are unforgettable simply because they are so very real—rock steady, down to earth guys who bring life to the pages of my e-reader and take me away to their world during the time they share a glimpse of their lives with me.
In this one, the men suffer a health scare at the same time they are planning to expand their family with the help of Simon’s BFF, Nyssa and her husband Paddy. Coby is still on-scene as Simon’s assistant in his new business and his partner, Jasper, even makes an appearance. In fact, there’s somewhat of a reconciliation between Simon and Jasper, though neither would admit to ever becoming close to the other. Roger and Fran, and a host of secondary characters from past stories play an important role as all come together to lend a shoulder to Simon and Dec as they reach the lowest of lows and the highest of highs.
I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the humor in this story. Honestly, I laughed so hard, tears rolled down my cheeks and I couldn’t catch my breath—and not just once—frequently throughout the story. Sean Kennedy’s humor, mostly shown through Simon, comes through loud and clear. It’s life on life’s terms, but it’s not a pity party, by any means.
I highly recommend this book and the entire series to all lovers of MM romance.
#established couples, #humor, #hurt-comfort, #non-explicit, #sports, #surprises
January 4, 2019
Great story. Always love Declan and Simon. Lots that's particularly pertinent to me.
First read of 2019. Great start.
First read of 2019. Great start.
January 18, 2019
Super loved this!!! RTF!!!
August 20, 2020
This is book four in Dec and Simon's adventures and they definitely came a long way. I surely would not advise starting from this book. You will miss well, a lot. Seven or eight years of relationship building, of life lived together , of friendships. Start with book one, basically, you won't regret that.
Having said all that, this was probably the last book I am reading about them. I know that if there ever was a fictional couple for whom talking about their feelings made sense, these guys would be that couple. For Simon's cracking up jokes and making sarcastic commentary in general had always been his way of dealing with life, but Declan learned to be more open and Simon learned to do the same and not always with jokes. I like that, but there is always a question of when enough is enough and I am sorry but I had reached that point here. I thought the topic of them dealing with the impending fatherhood was *great* , I totally think couples should discuss that, but once again how much they should discuss it?
I think the worst part was not even a discussion, but the fact that while after the fact continued conversation was very real, it was also kind of silly because the intrigue was lost. You are having these babies guys, and Simon 's struggle has an answer already, it will be fine. I am not explaining myself well. I actually read it pretty fast, and I thought health scare was done very well - also important topic, also everybody stressed, but that did not go into overdrive for me as the children topic went even if it is blended together eventually.
Grade: C+/B-
Having said all that, this was probably the last book I am reading about them. I know that if there ever was a fictional couple for whom talking about their feelings made sense, these guys would be that couple. For Simon's cracking up jokes and making sarcastic commentary in general had always been his way of dealing with life, but Declan learned to be more open and Simon learned to do the same and not always with jokes. I like that, but there is always a question of when enough is enough and I am sorry but I had reached that point here. I thought the topic of them dealing with the impending fatherhood was *great* , I totally think couples should discuss that, but once again how much they should discuss it?
I think the worst part was not even a discussion, but the fact that while after the fact continued conversation was very real, it was also kind of silly because the intrigue was lost. You are having these babies guys, and Simon 's struggle has an answer already, it will be fine. I am not explaining myself well. I actually read it pretty fast, and I thought health scare was done very well - also important topic, also everybody stressed, but that did not go into overdrive for me as the children topic went even if it is blended together eventually.
Grade: C+/B-
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 3, 2019
It was a wonderful read in keeping with the tradition of Tigers and Devils series by the great Sean Kennedy.
Simon and Declan are now embarking on the next stage of their lives, parenthood. Simon, though scared of the prospect, willing to take steps on this path along with Declan who really wanted this.
The health scare plot give ways to exploring the scares, the insecurities, the vulnerabilities, as well as how it effects their families and the couple dynamics. It did keep me guessing what it would be and who would it happened to.
The health scare itself
Simon and Dec also
What I love about this series is that Simon and Declan talked to each other. However, this big issue rocked even with their solid relationship. It did give the gravitas of to the issues they were facing and that they were also not perfect. They argue, fight, aired out their inner demons which hurt and heal each other. This is something that I did not see often in this genre. Since most books are about how the MCs met and ended just as they started their relationship. Not many get sequel which delved deep into the relationships of one couple. It was a good reminders that even a couple who had solid relationship still need to work together to stay together. As their communications broke down quite a bit once the health scare started, compound by the parenthood issue. This time the problems were not quite external as much as each other.
There are also a cavalcade of characters from previous books and we get to see how their lives were so far.
If you like the previous books, you will also like this book. If you are curious, the first book of this series is also an excellent book.
Simon and Declan are now embarking on the next stage of their lives, parenthood. Simon, though scared of the prospect, willing to take steps on this path along with Declan who really wanted this.
The health scare plot give ways to exploring the scares, the insecurities, the vulnerabilities, as well as how it effects their families and the couple dynamics. It did keep me guessing what it would be and who would it happened to.
The health scare itself
Simon and Dec also
What I love about this series is that Simon and Declan talked to each other. However, this big issue rocked even with their solid relationship. It did give the gravitas of to the issues they were facing and that they were also not perfect. They argue, fight, aired out their inner demons which hurt and heal each other. This is something that I did not see often in this genre. Since most books are about how the MCs met and ended just as they started their relationship. Not many get sequel which delved deep into the relationships of one couple. It was a good reminders that even a couple who had solid relationship still need to work together to stay together. As their communications broke down quite a bit once the health scare started, compound by the parenthood issue. This time the problems were not quite external as much as each other.
There are also a cavalcade of characters from previous books and we get to see how their lives were so far.
If you like the previous books, you will also like this book. If you are curious, the first book of this series is also an excellent book.
January 9, 2019
This was a lot of fun! I'd forgotten how much I enjoy Simon's snarky humor and Declan's steadfast devotion. The secondary characters are also back and so funny, too!
There is no steam in this - and I missed that aspect - I think a little bit would have helped - we don't need a ton but...
I really enjoyed watching the couple navigate Simon's health scare and the decision to become fathers. I really liked how that was handled.
I was worried, given the length of this, that I was going to be bored - I tend to find sequels like this can be tedious - but I wasn't and I can really recommend this to all the fans from the original books.
I will say that I do think it could have been edited a bit tighter and that there are some parts of this that could have been deleted :) IMHO
4 of 5 stars
There is no steam in this - and I missed that aspect - I think a little bit would have helped - we don't need a ton but...
I really enjoyed watching the couple navigate Simon's health scare and the decision to become fathers. I really liked how that was handled.
I was worried, given the length of this, that I was going to be bored - I tend to find sequels like this can be tedious - but I wasn't and I can really recommend this to all the fans from the original books.
I will say that I do think it could have been edited a bit tighter and that there are some parts of this that could have been deleted :) IMHO
4 of 5 stars
May 19, 2019
I, just, I just love Simon and Declan and their journey through life so much.
They love each other so much. They argue, they have miscommunications, they are pissed/angry at each other but through everything you feel the love they each have for each other.
I had to laugh out loud so much during reading due to the snarkiness of Simon (and Declan - Simon is rubbing off on him!) and just the way the book is written.
The story about the health scare and all the fears due to that and due to becoming parents? *hugs them both so much* I so get Simon and his fears, reactions and needs. But, I also understand Declan so well.
I love Simon so much. His snark. His awesomeness. His insecurities. His vulnerable side. His Simon-ness. My heart ached and joyed with him trough the book.
Declan is an amazing person and the way he loves Simon? <3
Yeah, I love this book so much. <3
They love each other so much. They argue, they have miscommunications, they are pissed/angry at each other but through everything you feel the love they each have for each other.
I had to laugh out loud so much during reading due to the snarkiness of Simon (and Declan - Simon is rubbing off on him!) and just the way the book is written.
The story about the health scare and all the fears due to that and due to becoming parents? *hugs them both so much* I so get Simon and his fears, reactions and needs. But, I also understand Declan so well.
I love Simon so much. His snark. His awesomeness. His insecurities. His vulnerable side. His Simon-ness. My heart ached and joyed with him trough the book.
Declan is an amazing person and the way he loves Simon? <3
Yeah, I love this book so much. <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 14, 2019
Simon and Dec... man, this brings back memories! They were one of my first ever OTPs 😉
2013, was it? I’m happy they’re still around! 😊
Their banter is what makes them irresistible and one of the most entertaining couples! ❤️
2013, was it? I’m happy they’re still around! 😊
Their banter is what makes them irresistible and one of the most entertaining couples! ❤️
January 9, 2019
I love spending time with Simon and Declan. All the snark makes it fun, all the secondary characters seem like my friends, too. But best is all the love.
January 7, 2019
God, Sean Kennedy has done it again!
I love this book. I love it. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and then made me laugh while I was wiping the snot off my face. This book made me look like an absolute loon and I love it. This series is always such an adventure to me. It gives me so much and I come out of it always thoughtful, and hopeful and in awe.
Anyway, spoilers ahead folks!
This addition has me bursting in the seams with so many strong emotions. Especially because Sean Kennedy also threatened to off SIMON MURRAY.
Well, I knew in the back of my mind that Simon was going to be fine. I had faith. But seeing Dec's helplessness was an uppercut to the face. Simon I think was trying his best to be his flippant and funny self about the whole thing which I totally get. Sometimes we just gotta do the things we need to do to cope. But gosh did Declan break my heart. Like, I knew as a reader that Simon was gonna be okay (denial is so strong y’all. In the blurb it said it was a health scare. A scare. I clung to that) but Declan didn’t know that. Just thinking about what he must’ve been feeling, how scared he must have been when they didn’t know the results yet makes my heart ache for him. Thinking about it now is bringing tears into my eyes.
And Simon! Broke my heart ten times more. I love, love, love Simon Murray so much and watching (reading) him struggle with his health, with his sterility, with his place/role in the whole surrogacy process just obliterated me. I am sentient space dust, using up my remaining energy to write this review.
Sean Kennedy makes me feel so so so much for his characters it’s stupid. I love a book that makes me care for the characters to a point where I’m bawling at the thought of them not having the life they want to have and all because I genuinely want them to be happy. Nothing says good effective writing any more than when it makes you stupid mad when everything is working against them.
They went through so much in this book, too. So, so much. But it shows that while they've both grown as individuals, asking for help is always tough and the feeling of helplessness is always suffocating. But by now we know Simon and Declan so well that I found myself just cheering for them to hash out whatever needs to be said. They pull through together and each time they do I always feel so proud of them.
But… I must say… The kiss in the rain was absolutely poignant too. How it called back to the first time they met hidden underneath the tree, to out in the open in the rain where anyone could see them. It made me think back to everything they conquered hand in hand. They grew so much together and to finally see them comfortable, brave and defiant in the street with no care in the world… It’s to show they know they deserve that freedom too. They didn’t have to earn that freedom because a straight couple could have done that without any fear. They didn't have to earn getting to kiss outside in the rain! But they're braver, stronger and fuck the world! They deserve it and more and they deserve to live and love and have a family. They know now not to take anything for granted! They’ve been through so much FOR THAT KISS IN THE RAIN!!! I’M SCREAMING!!! It’s just so bittersweet and — God!!! That kiss in the rain punched me in the gut. I was full-on sobbing, overtaken by the urge to just see them fucking happy.
This book felt the same yet so different from the other books??? Yes it was still kickass funny, still full of shenanigans (Ghosts??? In Tigers and Devils?? It’s more likely than you think!) but it was also somber. Mature? Down to earth. Grounded. I loved Simon and Declan in this book so much. If they were amazing in the first 3 books, they’re downright breathtaking in this one. This was a book about them and while I mourn the fact that there wasn’t a lot of Abe, Lisa and Coby and the rest of the gang, I was just so happy to have Simon and Dec spend this book together. Gosh I’m thinking about that kiss in the rain again. Sniff.
Just yeah. Wow this is going to be a book report but mmm. Yeah, I’m gonna sit in the corner and cry. Read this book again. Probably also make a playlist because damn do I need it after this. Sean Kennedy please accept responsibility. I’m a fucking wreck.
Tigers on the Way is amazing. Read it. Read it again. Read the entire fucking series. I am so mad!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH SEAN KENNEDY I HOPE YOU HAVE AN AMAZING 2019.
PS: I hope Sean Kennedy knows that he already owns my soul.
I love this book. I love it. It made me laugh, it made me cry, and then made me laugh while I was wiping the snot off my face. This book made me look like an absolute loon and I love it. This series is always such an adventure to me. It gives me so much and I come out of it always thoughtful, and hopeful and in awe.
Anyway, spoilers ahead folks!
This addition has me bursting in the seams with so many strong emotions. Especially because Sean Kennedy also threatened to off SIMON MURRAY.
Well, I knew in the back of my mind that Simon was going to be fine. I had faith. But seeing Dec's helplessness was an uppercut to the face. Simon I think was trying his best to be his flippant and funny self about the whole thing which I totally get. Sometimes we just gotta do the things we need to do to cope. But gosh did Declan break my heart. Like, I knew as a reader that Simon was gonna be okay (denial is so strong y’all. In the blurb it said it was a health scare. A scare. I clung to that) but Declan didn’t know that. Just thinking about what he must’ve been feeling, how scared he must have been when they didn’t know the results yet makes my heart ache for him. Thinking about it now is bringing tears into my eyes.
And Simon! Broke my heart ten times more. I love, love, love Simon Murray so much and watching (reading) him struggle with his health, with his sterility, with his place/role in the whole surrogacy process just obliterated me. I am sentient space dust, using up my remaining energy to write this review.
Sean Kennedy makes me feel so so so much for his characters it’s stupid. I love a book that makes me care for the characters to a point where I’m bawling at the thought of them not having the life they want to have and all because I genuinely want them to be happy. Nothing says good effective writing any more than when it makes you stupid mad when everything is working against them.
They went through so much in this book, too. So, so much. But it shows that while they've both grown as individuals, asking for help is always tough and the feeling of helplessness is always suffocating. But by now we know Simon and Declan so well that I found myself just cheering for them to hash out whatever needs to be said. They pull through together and each time they do I always feel so proud of them.
But… I must say… The kiss in the rain was absolutely poignant too. How it called back to the first time they met hidden underneath the tree, to out in the open in the rain where anyone could see them. It made me think back to everything they conquered hand in hand. They grew so much together and to finally see them comfortable, brave and defiant in the street with no care in the world… It’s to show they know they deserve that freedom too. They didn’t have to earn that freedom because a straight couple could have done that without any fear. They didn't have to earn getting to kiss outside in the rain! But they're braver, stronger and fuck the world! They deserve it and more and they deserve to live and love and have a family. They know now not to take anything for granted! They’ve been through so much FOR THAT KISS IN THE RAIN!!! I’M SCREAMING!!! It’s just so bittersweet and — God!!! That kiss in the rain punched me in the gut. I was full-on sobbing, overtaken by the urge to just see them fucking happy.
This book felt the same yet so different from the other books??? Yes it was still kickass funny, still full of shenanigans (Ghosts??? In Tigers and Devils?? It’s more likely than you think!) but it was also somber. Mature? Down to earth. Grounded. I loved Simon and Declan in this book so much. If they were amazing in the first 3 books, they’re downright breathtaking in this one. This was a book about them and while I mourn the fact that there wasn’t a lot of Abe, Lisa and Coby and the rest of the gang, I was just so happy to have Simon and Dec spend this book together. Gosh I’m thinking about that kiss in the rain again. Sniff.
Just yeah. Wow this is going to be a book report but mmm. Yeah, I’m gonna sit in the corner and cry. Read this book again. Probably also make a playlist because damn do I need it after this. Sean Kennedy please accept responsibility. I’m a fucking wreck.
Tigers on the Way is amazing. Read it. Read it again. Read the entire fucking series. I am so mad!!
THANK YOU SO MUCH SEAN KENNEDY I HOPE YOU HAVE AN AMAZING 2019.
PS: I hope Sean Kennedy knows that he already owns my soul.
February 7, 2020
As much as I felt for Simon in this one, I wanted to smack him upside the head just as much. I get how scared he was, how much didn't want to admit it, but I understood where Declan was coming from as well. He was just as scared and their ways of dealing with things were so different it put them in conflict. Of course Nyssa was going to come through for them with their surrogacy plans and well that brings up a whole new crop of fears for Simon even with as much as he wants it.
I appreciated the tension in this one as these guys dealt with a whole new round of things the world had to throw at them. They struggled at time, but eventually the got to talking to each other and working things out. There was a lot going on and all at once. It through their normally semi-ordered world (with Simon how ordered can it really be ;)) around and left them working to find a new balance. This story really made Simon and Declan deal with a lot of things and their interpersonal relations. Of course their friends were around, but this was really about the two men as they took this big step forward in their lives.
I appreciated the tension in this one as these guys dealt with a whole new round of things the world had to throw at them. They struggled at time, but eventually the got to talking to each other and working things out. There was a lot going on and all at once. It through their normally semi-ordered world (with Simon how ordered can it really be ;)) around and left them working to find a new balance. This story really made Simon and Declan deal with a lot of things and their interpersonal relations. Of course their friends were around, but this was really about the two men as they took this big step forward in their lives.
March 31, 2019
4.5 Star review by The Blogger Girls
I love the Tigers and Devils books and was convinced the series was over a while back. I wasn’t expecting that I would ever get another Simon and DeClan sighting again…and then along comes this little bundle of joy. From the blurb, we understand that the natural progression of family would include a little Simon or DeClan lookalike, but what I didn’t expect was the rabbit hole it went down in the process. I am not usually a fan of romance novels with babies or kids, but I couldn’t resist another visit with my favorite Aussies. Who can resist the siren call of these two? Not me, that’s for sure, and this book turned out to be so much different than I’d expected…in a good way.
And here you thought I would continue the review discussing the challenges of fatherhood and nappy changing. And you would be dead wrong. This is not the book for that, and the way this one ended, I am near certain that this series is still not over. That would be a yay from me.
Instead, this time it is DeClan craving to be a dad, and Simon craving to keep DeClan to himself. That sounds a bit selfish, but in reality, Simon is just a bit scared and not convinced a baby is what they need. He is near dead set against it, until…..(Spoiler). Nope, not telling you. What we get is maelstrom of emotions for our guys. What once seemed to be that natural progression was now threatened. Simon and DeClan have dealt with some nasty situations in the past, but this one will determine if the two are actually standing at the end. I admit, I was having all sorts of feels during this story, and I completely understand where both guys were coming from. It was a bit scary there for a while.
What I can tell you is that our boys are still together, stronger than ever, and I really hope there is another book.
Overall Impression: I Loved It
*I purchased my own, personal copy of this book for review.*
I love the Tigers and Devils books and was convinced the series was over a while back. I wasn’t expecting that I would ever get another Simon and DeClan sighting again…and then along comes this little bundle of joy. From the blurb, we understand that the natural progression of family would include a little Simon or DeClan lookalike, but what I didn’t expect was the rabbit hole it went down in the process. I am not usually a fan of romance novels with babies or kids, but I couldn’t resist another visit with my favorite Aussies. Who can resist the siren call of these two? Not me, that’s for sure, and this book turned out to be so much different than I’d expected…in a good way.
And here you thought I would continue the review discussing the challenges of fatherhood and nappy changing. And you would be dead wrong. This is not the book for that, and the way this one ended, I am near certain that this series is still not over. That would be a yay from me.
Instead, this time it is DeClan craving to be a dad, and Simon craving to keep DeClan to himself. That sounds a bit selfish, but in reality, Simon is just a bit scared and not convinced a baby is what they need. He is near dead set against it, until…..(Spoiler). Nope, not telling you. What we get is maelstrom of emotions for our guys. What once seemed to be that natural progression was now threatened. Simon and DeClan have dealt with some nasty situations in the past, but this one will determine if the two are actually standing at the end. I admit, I was having all sorts of feels during this story, and I completely understand where both guys were coming from. It was a bit scary there for a while.
What I can tell you is that our boys are still together, stronger than ever, and I really hope there is another book.
Overall Impression: I Loved It
*I purchased my own, personal copy of this book for review.*
March 29, 2024
4.8
This was probably the best-liked sequel of all the sequels in the series. I loved how everything had such a *heart* to it, from the medical issues to the parents. Declan and Tyler went through some serious hardships and i am so HAPPY with the way they handled every situation. There was so many kinds of heightened emotions all snowballed into this book, esp bc medical scares and parenting always invoke them. But they were treated with the sensitivity and care they deserved, along with dealing with the controversial issues that come with parenting by homosexual relationships.
This book was written before the gay marriage was passed in Australia, so you could see how gay people before then were forced to live a half-life and live in fear of not having authority over their own family. It was heartbreaking to read, because that's still the reality in some countries like mine (India). But this book laid out all those intricacies of the complex issues that straight people never have to give a thought to, and so well-written too. I loved again how Declan and Simon are as a couple together, so understanding of each other, so compassionate of the other, balancing each other out. Even though they had certain hiccups here that literally every couple faces, they didn't let those embitter themselves or their relationship. It was such a strong one.
There were slight confusion in a couple of places like, where a wrong name was written mistakenly, or during a conversation, so the editing maybe should've been better, but they weren't definitely important.
Anyway, their relationship had such a soothing air to it, like i could read about it all day and feel the security and love of it wrap over me in a hug. It had a warmth to it that maybe comes only with a series and being with the characters for four books.
I wish i could see their wedding tho. 😭
This was probably the best-liked sequel of all the sequels in the series. I loved how everything had such a *heart* to it, from the medical issues to the parents. Declan and Tyler went through some serious hardships and i am so HAPPY with the way they handled every situation. There was so many kinds of heightened emotions all snowballed into this book, esp bc medical scares and parenting always invoke them. But they were treated with the sensitivity and care they deserved, along with dealing with the controversial issues that come with parenting by homosexual relationships.
This book was written before the gay marriage was passed in Australia, so you could see how gay people before then were forced to live a half-life and live in fear of not having authority over their own family. It was heartbreaking to read, because that's still the reality in some countries like mine (India). But this book laid out all those intricacies of the complex issues that straight people never have to give a thought to, and so well-written too. I loved again how Declan and Simon are as a couple together, so understanding of each other, so compassionate of the other, balancing each other out. Even though they had certain hiccups here that literally every couple faces, they didn't let those embitter themselves or their relationship. It was such a strong one.
There were slight confusion in a couple of places like, where a wrong name was written mistakenly, or during a conversation, so the editing maybe should've been better, but they weren't definitely important.
Anyway, their relationship had such a soothing air to it, like i could read about it all day and feel the security and love of it wrap over me in a hug. It had a warmth to it that maybe comes only with a series and being with the characters for four books.
I wish i could see their wedding tho. 😭
January 17, 2019
This is a book without A-story and with way too many B stories. While there are many things happening, there is, as far as I am concerned, no discernible pattern of a story. There is no tension of what happens next. It is just a pile of events which are held together in a coherent form by the likeable "realness" of the two MCs, which is the greatest asset of this book. This book feels like reading what happened to the characters after their story had ended, a kind of overblown epiloque.
It doesn't mean it is not fun. The the second half the book is a series of sketches parodying various pop cultural phenomena - Scooby-Doo for instance. Some of these are really hilarious, however, it is no replacement for a real story.
It doesn't mean it is not fun. The the second half the book is a series of sketches parodying various pop cultural phenomena - Scooby-Doo for instance. Some of these are really hilarious, however, it is no replacement for a real story.
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