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Santori Trilogy #1
Santori
Listening Length: 7 hours and 29 minutes.
The Kage saga continues....
Michael Kage Santori has just inherited a thriving hotel and millions of dollars. He's poised to become an MMA champion. Things couldn't be better between him and his college boy lover, Jamie Atwood - especially in the bedroom, where Jamie is more than eager to let Kage take out his aggressions on him.
Kage seems to have it all, but success and happiness have come at a steep price. After all of the childhood trauma he endured at the hands of his controlling uncle, Peter Santori, it's a miracle Kage has any shred of sanity left. And now, because of him, Jamie is a murderer.
More than anything, Kage wants to be good. He wants the be the kind of man who is worthy of Jamie's love, but fate has other ideas. His uncle's legacy has a stranglehold on him, and it keeps dragging him further and further down a rabbit hole from which there seems no escape. Worst of all...Kage knows he's going to pull Jamie down right along with him, and he would rather die than let that happen.
The Kage saga continues....
Michael Kage Santori has just inherited a thriving hotel and millions of dollars. He's poised to become an MMA champion. Things couldn't be better between him and his college boy lover, Jamie Atwood - especially in the bedroom, where Jamie is more than eager to let Kage take out his aggressions on him.
Kage seems to have it all, but success and happiness have come at a steep price. After all of the childhood trauma he endured at the hands of his controlling uncle, Peter Santori, it's a miracle Kage has any shred of sanity left. And now, because of him, Jamie is a murderer.
More than anything, Kage wants to be good. He wants the be the kind of man who is worthy of Jamie's love, but fate has other ideas. His uncle's legacy has a stranglehold on him, and it keeps dragging him further and further down a rabbit hole from which there seems no escape. Worst of all...Kage knows he's going to pull Jamie down right along with him, and he would rather die than let that happen.
8 pages, Audible Audio
First published December 15, 2017
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 129 reviews
February 13, 2019
Audio - JF Harding, baby!!! So all the fucking stars!!
Story - 4.5 stars
No surprise that I was more excited about the narrator than I was about the actually story, especially after the let down that was book 3 of the Kage series. It was my intention to wait for the entire Santori series before starting but that when out the window because....JFH.
Anyway, I am loving this series. Jamie is needy. Kage is possessive. These guys burn up the sheets!!! And some very interesting, unexpected revelations are brought to light. Oh and Steve is still funny as hell. I hope he gets a story of his own!
Story - 4.5 stars
No surprise that I was more excited about the narrator than I was about the actually story, especially after the let down that was book 3 of the Kage series. It was my intention to wait for the entire Santori series before starting but that when out the window because....JFH.
Anyway, I am loving this series. Jamie is needy. Kage is possessive. These guys burn up the sheets!!! And some very interesting, unexpected revelations are brought to light. Oh and Steve is still funny as hell. I hope he gets a story of his own!
November 4, 2021
4 stars.
Kage is being such a little dickhead. i really hope he comes clean about everything to Jamie soon.
i am actually obsessed with Gio/Peter, but omg, knowing that they don't have a happy ending makes everything terrible.🤣
the fact that the author is making me feel bad for such a horrible person is very conflicting, but i suppose that's the beauty of books. i guess we'll be able to see exactly how Peter became the Peter we knew in the first series.
anyways this was a little slow for me in the beginning, but once Kage found Peter's journal, i was officially obsessed again. can't wait to read more!
Kage is being such a little dickhead. i really hope he comes clean about everything to Jamie soon.
i am actually obsessed with Gio/Peter, but omg, knowing that they don't have a happy ending makes everything terrible.🤣
the fact that the author is making me feel bad for such a horrible person is very conflicting, but i suppose that's the beauty of books. i guess we'll be able to see exactly how Peter became the Peter we knew in the first series.
anyways this was a little slow for me in the beginning, but once Kage found Peter's journal, i was officially obsessed again. can't wait to read more!
November 12, 2019
Audiobook - 5+++++ Stars
Story 2.5 stars
It's me! not the book.
JF Harding's voice is gorgeous. The story on the other hand? Pffft, i don't understand why it exists. After Kage series book 3, i thought we had closed that chapter and this one will show Kage and Jamie's relationship growth, i was wrong! we are back to the start with Kage keeping unnecessary secrets from Jamie, they are not communicating while all the time Kage saying that he is afraid Jamie will see him as weak if he tells him the truth.... Ummm?
Talk about fillers...
I was about to DNF then the young Peter Santori and Gio story started and i was like yay! Peter got himself a Daaaaddddyyy!!
At this point i don't care about Kage and Jamie they can go be babies all they want. Why are they even in this series? This should have been Peter and Gio series. I will be listening to the rest just to know about sweet young Peter and what turned him into the horrible adult. I have my suspicions but i will let the story prove me wrong or right.
Anyway don't mind me, this is a case of everyone loved it but me.
Story 2.5 stars
It's me! not the book.
JF Harding's voice is gorgeous. The story on the other hand? Pffft, i don't understand why it exists. After Kage series book 3, i thought we had closed that chapter and this one will show Kage and Jamie's relationship growth, i was wrong! we are back to the start with Kage keeping unnecessary secrets from Jamie, they are not communicating while all the time Kage saying that he is afraid Jamie will see him as weak if he tells him the truth.... Ummm?
Talk about fillers...
I was about to DNF then the young Peter Santori and Gio story started and i was like yay! Peter got himself a Daaaaddddyyy!!
At this point i don't care about Kage and Jamie they can go be babies all they want. Why are they even in this series? This should have been Peter and Gio series. I will be listening to the rest just to know about sweet young Peter and what turned him into the horrible adult. I have my suspicions but i will let the story prove me wrong or right.
Anyway don't mind me, this is a case of everyone loved it but me.
January 5, 2018
4 Stars!
The Kage trilogy was one of my favorite series that I had read last year so was when I saw this book floating around in my feed I had a total fan-girl moment. It wasn't embarrassing, just bit of a "yes!!!" scream. OK, there might have been a fist pump. Anyways.. I was really happy to see there was not only another book, but that it was going to be another trilogy. I am one of the reader's who felt the story was unfinished when the first series ended. I wanted more. Now I got more and I was happy with what I got. But not 5 star happy.
There are a lot of ups and downs in Kage's and Jamie's relationship in this book. Kage is keeping secrets and Jamie is frustrated with the secrets and how much distance is starting to grow between them. Jamie is missing Kage "The Fighter". He's not so much loving the "Businessman Kage". I'm with Jamie on this one. I completely understand the need Kage has wanting to succeed with the business's he's inherited after the passing of his shady Uncle Peter. The problem I have with him is that he holds things back from Jamie which is annoying because it only ends up making unnecessary drama between the two of them. You can feel the distance growing between our guys and it's frustrating. I'm sure there will be a breaking point in the book that will follow.
Peter... I have mixed feelings about what progressed with this man in this book. I wasn't pleased that this man took up so much space in this book. But to confess, I was completely interested in what the author had wrote. But there is no way I am going to sympathize with this man. Why? One name. Evan.
I am looking forward to the next book. Hopefully things move along in a quicker pace and more things are revealed and our men get it together.
Happy reading dolls! xx
The Kage trilogy was one of my favorite series that I had read last year so was when I saw this book floating around in my feed I had a total fan-girl moment. It wasn't embarrassing, just bit of a "yes!!!" scream. OK, there might have been a fist pump. Anyways.. I was really happy to see there was not only another book, but that it was going to be another trilogy. I am one of the reader's who felt the story was unfinished when the first series ended. I wanted more. Now I got more and I was happy with what I got. But not 5 star happy.
There are a lot of ups and downs in Kage's and Jamie's relationship in this book. Kage is keeping secrets and Jamie is frustrated with the secrets and how much distance is starting to grow between them. Jamie is missing Kage "The Fighter". He's not so much loving the "Businessman Kage". I'm with Jamie on this one. I completely understand the need Kage has wanting to succeed with the business's he's inherited after the passing of his shady Uncle Peter. The problem I have with him is that he holds things back from Jamie which is annoying because it only ends up making unnecessary drama between the two of them. You can feel the distance growing between our guys and it's frustrating. I'm sure there will be a breaking point in the book that will follow.
Peter... I have mixed feelings about what progressed with this man in this book. I wasn't pleased that this man took up so much space in this book. But to confess, I was completely interested in what the author had wrote. But there is no way I am going to sympathize with this man. Why? One name. Evan.
I am looking forward to the next book. Hopefully things move along in a quicker pace and more things are revealed and our men get it together.
Happy reading dolls! xx
May 15, 2019
4.5 Stars!!
More of Kage and Jamie..............
Jamie and Kage now have to find their new normal after the horrific things that happened in Kage Unmasked. For Jamie the struggle is even harder as he comes to terms with the fact he killed a man.
So Jamie heads back to college while Kage stays in Vegas to learn how the new business he just inherited is run. When Kage goes to visit Jamie at his parents house one of the funniest scenes I have ever read plays out, I mean I had tears I was laughing so hard.
I knew I liked Stephen one of the hotels receptionists who had befriended Jamie in earlier books. I was so happy we got more of him in this one and I liked him even more.
As Kage tries to figure out his new business he finds a diary of his infamous uncle Peter Santori, we are then taken back in time and told Peter's story from his POV.
I really liked getting the start of Peter's story, although I was a little bummed that meant we got less of Kage and Jamie.
More of Kage and Jamie..............
Jamie and Kage now have to find their new normal after the horrific things that happened in Kage Unmasked. For Jamie the struggle is even harder as he comes to terms with the fact he killed a man.
So Jamie heads back to college while Kage stays in Vegas to learn how the new business he just inherited is run. When Kage goes to visit Jamie at his parents house one of the funniest scenes I have ever read plays out, I mean I had tears I was laughing so hard.
I knew I liked Stephen one of the hotels receptionists who had befriended Jamie in earlier books. I was so happy we got more of him in this one and I liked him even more.
As Kage tries to figure out his new business he finds a diary of his infamous uncle Peter Santori, we are then taken back in time and told Peter's story from his POV.
I really liked getting the start of Peter's story, although I was a little bummed that meant we got less of Kage and Jamie.
December 19, 2017
Can't wait...just please give me strength if this author has cliffhangers. She is the queen of just leaving you hanging by a cliff, with only one finger holding you up...
Not sure I will survive cliffhangers in this series....I won't have the next book ready to go.....
Not sure I will survive cliffhangers in this series....I won't have the next book ready to go.....
April 17, 2022
3.7 stars. The most interesting thing about this book started towards the end, when kage started reading Peter santori's diary. Ended up with the best part! I sincerely hope that Jamie will become more useful in the next books, he has finished college and is able to work on his specialization. Jamie can't just be Kage's boyfriend, he needs more memorable moments than having sex with Kage. I love Kage and Jamie and I want the best for them.
August 28, 2020
3.5 stars rounded down.
First thing: let me tell all you Kage series fans, this is NOT about Michael Kage any more, not really. It's about Peter Santori, the asshole uncle who DIED in the first series, thrown off the balcony by Jamie in self-defense.
But that's not why I give this book 3 stars. The main reason is that it's kinda ruining my glow from the first series. Kage is unrecognizable to me. He's like Santori "reborn" which is the point, bc that's the title of the next book. And no longer Michael Kage. Everything I liked about him is NOT present here. He's become a watered down version of what I loved in his own series.
Then there's Jamie. Come ON! You just graduated college, you're an adult, you have initiative (like when you were an intern for Michael) and suddenly you have no aim in your own life living as Kage's PET. Dependent on him for everything including setting up a freaking BLOG??? What is WRONG with you??? I am not a fan of Jamie. I wasn't a huge fan of him from the first series, and now even less so.
THAT's why it's 3 stars.
The whole transition into Peter Santori's life is not such a big deal for me. I'm interested enuf to keep reading. But I am VERY disappointed in the way the MCs from the first series are devolving... right from the start, just not true to character.
This is my new Michael Kage...
First thing: let me tell all you Kage series fans, this is NOT about Michael Kage any more, not really. It's about Peter Santori, the asshole uncle who DIED in the first series, thrown off the balcony by Jamie in self-defense.
But that's not why I give this book 3 stars. The main reason is that it's kinda ruining my glow from the first series. Kage is unrecognizable to me. He's like Santori "reborn" which is the point, bc that's the title of the next book. And no longer Michael Kage. Everything I liked about him is NOT present here. He's become a watered down version of what I loved in his own series.
Then there's Jamie. Come ON! You just graduated college, you're an adult, you have initiative (like when you were an intern for Michael) and suddenly you have no aim in your own life living as Kage's PET. Dependent on him for everything including setting up a freaking BLOG??? What is WRONG with you??? I am not a fan of Jamie. I wasn't a huge fan of him from the first series, and now even less so.
THAT's why it's 3 stars.
The whole transition into Peter Santori's life is not such a big deal for me. I'm interested enuf to keep reading. But I am VERY disappointed in the way the MCs from the first series are devolving... right from the start, just not true to character.
This is my new Michael Kage...
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January 21, 20234 stars for Kage/Jamie's story and 2 stars for Gio/Peter. not a fan of the latter atm, but who knows. it could change in the other two books. for now though, Kage/Jamie still has me hooked with their ott possessiveness and jealousy relationship. i do wish Kage would stop with the secrets and just let Jamie in for once in the "dark" part of his life. i know he wants to protect Jamie and not taint him with the bad, but Jamie is his boyfriend, not his child. he deserves to know that part of Kage's life just as much as the good side. 😩
June 2, 2022
Yea ok.... Unfortunately I think I agree with those who say this just isn't necessary....Kage and Jamie are just a little too annoying, especially in Kage's "I can't tell him to protect ". It's pretty old and not at all a creative way to make relationship drama. Then there's Peter and Gio and yes, this relationship is more interesting of the two, but I'm not really interested in seeing this sweet kid becoming a fucked up adult... So I'm going to leave the rest of the series.
I have never abandoned a series once started,but there are just so many books I actually want to read.
The audiobook is still great and the sex is obviously, possessive and hot and I love it. Hence the 3 stars.
Pre reading book
Oh this is a suprise! And a perfect chance to reread the trilogy and find out if I still like it as much as I did the first time round.
I have never abandoned a series once started,but there are just so many books I actually want to read.
The audiobook is still great and the sex is obviously, possessive and hot and I love it. Hence the 3 stars.
Pre reading book
Oh this is a suprise! And a perfect chance to reread the trilogy and find out if I still like it as much as I did the first time round.
May 2, 2019
3.5 stars but I'm rounding up because the inserted story of young Peter Santori is fascinating.
I didn't think I'd like this one as much as I did. I hate it when MCs keep secrets from each other or lie to each other so I am not a happy camper with Michael Kage. But I enjoyed so many parts of this book. The interactions with Jamie's family were wonderful. And, again, learning about young Santori was mind blowing. So, yes, I'm rounding up to four stars. :-) and on to the next in the series.
*An Audible Romance Package pick with a great narrator in J.F. Harding.
I didn't think I'd like this one as much as I did. I hate it when MCs keep secrets from each other or lie to each other so I am not a happy camper with Michael Kage. But I enjoyed so many parts of this book. The interactions with Jamie's family were wonderful. And, again, learning about young Santori was mind blowing. So, yes, I'm rounding up to four stars. :-) and on to the next in the series.
*An Audible Romance Package pick with a great narrator in J.F. Harding.
February 5, 2018
4 Stars! A fantastic follow up to the Kage Trilogy!
What we have here is a failure to communicate......at least Kage does. Yes, Kage, our favorite MMA fighter is back. That sexy MFer along with Jaime and his willing, dirty self.
Hmmmmm HOT sex aside, Kage is now running his dead uncle’s empire. Jaime finishes school and is back with Jaime. Peter Santori was not much of an uncle to Kage and had some shady dealings. Kage wants to keep all of the “bad” from Jaime. To protect him. So he doesn’t tell him about the threats he’s been getting or why he’s so stressed. Jaime doesn’t buy it, but takes what he can from Kage.
I HATE non-communication tropes, but here some of it makes sense, but a lot doesn’t. I want to smack you upside the head, Kage, you twit, for lying and not talking with Jaime!
There’s a sketchy therapist in there that seems to me a little too convenient to for Jaime to find. And then there are the old journals from his uncle Peter which truly begin a new story of sorts, for a good part of the book. It’s quite interesting, really, and gives insight into the Alcazar Hotel and and interesting side of uncle Peter Kage never knew about.
This book is great! The sex is HOT and messy, and there’s a lot of stuff going on. I’m so looking forward to the next book and hoping that Kage confides in Jaime before he loses him.
What we have here is a failure to communicate......at least Kage does. Yes, Kage, our favorite MMA fighter is back. That sexy MFer along with Jaime and his willing, dirty self.
Hmmmmm HOT sex aside, Kage is now running his dead uncle’s empire. Jaime finishes school and is back with Jaime. Peter Santori was not much of an uncle to Kage and had some shady dealings. Kage wants to keep all of the “bad” from Jaime. To protect him. So he doesn’t tell him about the threats he’s been getting or why he’s so stressed. Jaime doesn’t buy it, but takes what he can from Kage.
I HATE non-communication tropes, but here some of it makes sense, but a lot doesn’t. I want to smack you upside the head, Kage, you twit, for lying and not talking with Jaime!
There’s a sketchy therapist in there that seems to me a little too convenient to for Jaime to find. And then there are the old journals from his uncle Peter which truly begin a new story of sorts, for a good part of the book. It’s quite interesting, really, and gives insight into the Alcazar Hotel and and interesting side of uncle Peter Kage never knew about.
This book is great! The sex is HOT and messy, and there’s a lot of stuff going on. I’m so looking forward to the next book and hoping that Kage confides in Jaime before he loses him.
May 7, 2019
4.5 stars rounded down because...still no 1/2 stars here on GR.
Well that was a bit of a surprise...
'Santori' is the first book in the series of the same name that picks up where the original series 'Kage' by Maris Black leaves off.
When it came to the 'Kage' trilogy I devoured the audio books and couldn't wait to dive into 'Santori' the next part of this story and so far I'm not disappointed that I did. While the story has turned out to be very different than I'd expected it continues to be every bit as interesting, sexy and scintillating as the original stories.
My only real issue with this book was the sense of frustration that I experienced with both Jaime and Kage...
Let's start with Kage. Honestly the man needs to stop telling Jaime how sheltered and naive he is and then perpetuating it by keeping things from him. How can anyone be expected to not be sheltered and naive when the people in their lives continually keep things from them and create an environment where they only see the sunshine and rainbows. But having said that I want Jaime to stop acting like a little kid...sorry, but getting drunk because your partner isn't giving you the attention you think they should isn't the behavior of a mature, responsible adult and this has been Jaime's go to behavior on more than one occasion.
It's pretty clear that Kage and Jaime are going through a rough patch right now but really, what couple hasn't faced it's share of challenges? I maybe frustrated with their behavior at present but my interest and enthusiasm for this series definitely hasn't waned and I'm very much looking forward to hearing what happens next for this couple.
Well that was a bit of a surprise...
'Santori' is the first book in the series of the same name that picks up where the original series 'Kage' by Maris Black leaves off.
When it came to the 'Kage' trilogy I devoured the audio books and couldn't wait to dive into 'Santori' the next part of this story and so far I'm not disappointed that I did. While the story has turned out to be very different than I'd expected it continues to be every bit as interesting, sexy and scintillating as the original stories.
My only real issue with this book was the sense of frustration that I experienced with both Jaime and Kage...
Let's start with Kage. Honestly the man needs to stop telling Jaime how sheltered and naive he is and then perpetuating it by keeping things from him. How can anyone be expected to not be sheltered and naive when the people in their lives continually keep things from them and create an environment where they only see the sunshine and rainbows. But having said that I want Jaime to stop acting like a little kid...sorry, but getting drunk because your partner isn't giving you the attention you think they should isn't the behavior of a mature, responsible adult and this has been Jaime's go to behavior on more than one occasion.
It's pretty clear that Kage and Jaime are going through a rough patch right now but really, what couple hasn't faced it's share of challenges? I maybe frustrated with their behavior at present but my interest and enthusiasm for this series definitely hasn't waned and I'm very much looking forward to hearing what happens next for this couple.
May 16, 2019
You know I love me some Kage and Jamie but for this, they took a deservedly second place to the fascinating story of the young Peter Santori. They've had three full books to themselves so this sharing of page time done here didn't bother me at all. In fact, I think it should've been 40% Kage+Jamie, 60% Young Peter Santori. It was so good that When his portion ended I internally screamed NOOOOOOOO!
As you may imagine, there's NO way I won't be continuing this series. None at all.
Oh and as usual, JF Harding was wonderful with the narration. Somebody give that guy a medal!!
As you may imagine, there's NO way I won't be continuing this series. None at all.
Oh and as usual, JF Harding was wonderful with the narration. Somebody give that guy a medal!!
December 18, 2017
4.5 stars
I couldn't put this down, even when I wanted to punch Jamie for being such a whiny bastard, and even when I wanted to kick Kage in the nuts for...lots of reasons.
Beginning right after the death of Kage's uncle in Kage Unmasked we go through Jamie and Kage's time apart while Jamie finishes college, and their subsequent "outing" after Kage's big interview. There's a lot skimmed over and recapped during this time in order to get to the beginning of this new story, which is basically about the mystery and intrigue of Kage running a, quite probably, illegal empire built by his late Uncle.
I was a little frustrated at both Jamie and Kage and not quite sure where the story was going until I hit and everything got turned on it's head. From then I was addicted. Hungry for more, needing to know everything. The way Maris Black weaved the last part of this book was unexpected and had me on the edge of my seat
This does end on a kind of cliffhanger, but on a sliding scale, it's not a bad one.
Bottom line. I'm hooked and I want to know more. Bring on the next.
I couldn't put this down, even when I wanted to punch Jamie for being such a whiny bastard, and even when I wanted to kick Kage in the nuts for...lots of reasons.
Beginning right after the death of Kage's uncle in Kage Unmasked we go through Jamie and Kage's time apart while Jamie finishes college, and their subsequent "outing" after Kage's big interview. There's a lot skimmed over and recapped during this time in order to get to the beginning of this new story, which is basically about the mystery and intrigue of Kage running a, quite probably, illegal empire built by his late Uncle.
I was a little frustrated at both Jamie and Kage and not quite sure where the story was going until I hit and everything got turned on it's head. From then I was addicted. Hungry for more, needing to know everything. The way Maris Black weaved the last part of this book was unexpected and had me on the edge of my seat
This does end on a kind of cliffhanger, but on a sliding scale, it's not a bad one.
Bottom line. I'm hooked and I want to know more. Bring on the next.
December 17, 2017
Welcome back, Mr. Santori 😊
It's good to see you again.
It's good to see you again.
Want to read
December 24, 2017Thank you to my GR Brain Twin for gifting me with this!!
December 26, 2017
4.5 stars - First and foremost, fitness model Mike Chabot, will forever and always be Michael Kage. There isn’t a more perfect person to play that part, and I’m glad his story is continuing here. Secondly, if you have not yet read the original Kage Trilogy, go back and do so now, as that is where this story all started, and this is a continuation that picks up right where that left off.
Ms. Black has successfully continued with the theme, characterizations, feelings, etc. that were present throughout the original series, and it only takes a few paragraphs for it to all come rushing back. Kage and Jamie are trying to pick up the pieces after Santori’s demise, and while things were rough before, they are no real picnic now that he’s gone. With the stipulation that Kage cannot sell any part of the business for two years, Kage is determined to get on top of things, to make the business thrive and to eliminate any possible illegal goings on which will only help keep Jamie safe.
Unfortunately, as I said, Santori’s reach is still being felt and there are definitely things afoot that pose danger to both Kage and Jamie. But, trying to carry the load himself while figuring things out is starting to take its toll on their relationship. Will Kage get a handle on things before Jamie runs out of patience? Time will tell, as this is just the beginning.
The story takes a bit of a turn about 3/4 of the way through when Kage learns of Santori’s journals. I was unsure of this at first, selfishly wanting the focus back on Kage and Jamie. However, it didn’t take long before I was sucked into the story just as much as Kage was. I really don’t want to like Santori at all, but hot damn, was I on board learning about his earlier life.
Of course, this ends in a bit of a cliffy with lots of stuff up in the air. I was gobbling up pages like pack man on speed, and really cannot wait for the next installment! So good to have Kage and Jamie back, and even though I was frustrated with them at various points throughout, I so badly want them to find happiness and some day make it to that island life Kage has dreamed up for them. Hopefully we won’t have to wait too long to find out. Highly recommend.
Review written for The Blogger Girls.
November 23, 2024
[This review covers the entire Santori Trilogy]
Whew. Well, this entire thing was A LOT 😅 I almost don't know where to begin because my feelings are kind of all over the place with how everything went down. I'm just going to pop up the spoiler tag and go for it because I have things to say and don't know a better way to go about it 😂
Before that though, I'm going to put on my broken record again and play the track that says, "JF Harding is amazing and deserves a million stars. His voice is the best thing that will ever happen to your ears. Best narrator ever. No notes." 😌
Now onto the yapping...
Whew. Well, this entire thing was A LOT 😅 I almost don't know where to begin because my feelings are kind of all over the place with how everything went down. I'm just going to pop up the spoiler tag and go for it because I have things to say and don't know a better way to go about it 😂
Before that though, I'm going to put on my broken record again and play the track that says, "JF Harding is amazing and deserves a million stars. His voice is the best thing that will ever happen to your ears. Best narrator ever. No notes." 😌
Now onto the yapping...
July 19, 2019
Yep, JF Harding's Kage voice is still hot! I liked this one a lot, but Jamie was totally getting on my nerves. He is such a baby and it is really unhealthy to have your life revolve another person, even a hot, ridiculously wealthy MMA fighter. I thought Peter's journal was interesting, but I cannot reconcile him to Kage's uncle who was such a bastard. It will be interesting to see how his story unfolds. Onto the next audiobook!
April 27, 2019
Yes!!! Jamie and Kage are literal perfection.
I was so freaking happy when I realized there was a SECOND series featuring them, I started it almost right away. I fell in love with their relationship, and while the last series had a pretty good conclusion, I couldn’t help but keep thinking about them and what happens next.
Holy hell, those two are so burning hot, few times I have read a m/m relationship that attracts me this much. I have to admit, there was some disappointment given that this did not go the way I thought (and hoped) it would. I was hoping for a lot more Kage-the-fighter, not Kage-the-businessman; I thought he and Jamie would deal together about Kage’s career in the fighting world, now that they’re out, but I guess not. Not at all.
It was still a (relatively) good book. I was hesitant about the fact that they’re giving Peter an important role in the book. I mean, the guy is dead and I hated him anyway, so I didn’t really know what to think. Imagine my surprise when I actually liked his story… but to be fair, his love story was pretty entertaining.
I was incredibly mad, though, because I thought Kage and Jamie (but mostly Kage) had learned from their mistakes that NOT COMMUNICATING AND HIDING SECRETS WILL DOOM YOUR RELATIONSHIP. Dammit, why can’t he just get that? I hate that Kage is still so invested in his uncle’s business when it’s not doing anything good for him. sigh. Oh well, I just need more Kage and Jamie in love, everything else comes second.
I was so freaking happy when I realized there was a SECOND series featuring them, I started it almost right away. I fell in love with their relationship, and while the last series had a pretty good conclusion, I couldn’t help but keep thinking about them and what happens next.
Holy hell, those two are so burning hot, few times I have read a m/m relationship that attracts me this much. I have to admit, there was some disappointment given that this did not go the way I thought (and hoped) it would. I was hoping for a lot more Kage-the-fighter, not Kage-the-businessman; I thought he and Jamie would deal together about Kage’s career in the fighting world, now that they’re out, but I guess not. Not at all.
It was still a (relatively) good book. I was hesitant about the fact that they’re giving Peter an important role in the book. I mean, the guy is dead and I hated him anyway, so I didn’t really know what to think. Imagine my surprise when I actually liked his story… but to be fair, his love story was pretty entertaining.
I was incredibly mad, though, because I thought Kage and Jamie (but mostly Kage) had learned from their mistakes that NOT COMMUNICATING AND HIDING SECRETS WILL DOOM YOUR RELATIONSHIP. Dammit, why can’t he just get that? I hate that Kage is still so invested in his uncle’s business when it’s not doing anything good for him. sigh. Oh well, I just need more Kage and Jamie in love, everything else comes second.
November 4, 2019
Peter Santori's story.
As Kage tries to find out about his inheritance, he's told to read Peter's personal journals.
Peter's backstory is very familiar and completely unexpected. What happened to Gio and how did Peter Santori become the monster Kage grew up with?
I'm tied up in the story right now. 5/5
As Kage tries to find out about his inheritance, he's told to read Peter's personal journals.
Peter's backstory is very familiar and completely unexpected. What happened to Gio and how did Peter Santori become the monster Kage grew up with?
I'm tied up in the story right now. 5/5
July 30, 2020
This part 4 of the Kage series started pretty ok for me - we get more of Kage and Jamie's relationship but then the drama and then Peter's story that I didnt sign up for started......
We could just have gotten a bit of fluff or even some nice angst but what we got was a fail attempt at action and drama.
We could just have gotten a bit of fluff or even some nice angst but what we got was a fail attempt at action and drama.
July 16, 2019
As the sole heir of his uncle Peter Santori, Kage has become a very rich man. But this also brought him a lot of responsibility putting him in the limelight of a lot of people.
Navigating through his uncle business Kage is threading to murky waters, is not able to see the big picture and has less and less time to train with Marco for his upcoming MMA fight.
Things get dark quickly and Kage learns more about his illustere uncle.
I was fiending for more, and I knew I wouldn’t be able to stop until the last page of his story had been turned.
Me too, so on to the next book!
Part of the Santori Trilogy that must be read in order
Read the beginning of Kage & Jamie's story Kage Trilogy
May 3, 2023
3.5 stars
Entertaining as always. Kage and Jamie are going through a rough patch as Kage is having a tough time adjusting to his new role running the hotel and other properties he’s inherited after his uncle’s (Peter) death. I didn’t realize that the book would take a detour into delving into Peter’s background.
Entertaining as always. Kage and Jamie are going through a rough patch as Kage is having a tough time adjusting to his new role running the hotel and other properties he’s inherited after his uncle’s (Peter) death. I didn’t realize that the book would take a detour into delving into Peter’s background.
May 19, 2019
Audible Review:
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
So happy to be back in Kage and Jamie's world!
Oh my word. Even though I would have been quite happy for Kage and Jamie's story to have ended with the Kage trilogy, I'm excited that we get more of them!
I just adore Jamie and Kage, they are the best. But man, Kage frustrated me in this book. I don't like that he's keeping secrets from Jamie, especially when Jamie is right there in the middle of things! These two are just starting out their lives together and it made me sad that things are on shaky ground.
I did like learning about Peter and why/how he came to be the man he was, but I feel weird saying that! And it seems really wrong that I'm feeling sorry for him- I don't want to feel for this monster. But Ms. Black had me all up in my feelings.
I'm ready to dive right into the next book, to see what's in store for Kage, Jamie, and Peter.
One of the funniest scenes in these books had to have been Paul and the "present" he thought Kage brought him. I was listening at the gym and I couldn't hold my laughter in!
JF Harding is so perfect as Jamie and Kage- I love how he's given them both such distinct voices that fit so well with their characters. And then to throw Peter into the mix, as a younger man, I really can't get enough.
Overall 4 out of 5 stars
Performance 5 out of 5 stars
Story 4 out of 5 stars
So happy to be back in Kage and Jamie's world!
Oh my word. Even though I would have been quite happy for Kage and Jamie's story to have ended with the Kage trilogy, I'm excited that we get more of them!
I just adore Jamie and Kage, they are the best. But man, Kage frustrated me in this book. I don't like that he's keeping secrets from Jamie, especially when Jamie is right there in the middle of things! These two are just starting out their lives together and it made me sad that things are on shaky ground.
I did like learning about Peter and why/how he came to be the man he was, but I feel weird saying that! And it seems really wrong that I'm feeling sorry for him- I don't want to feel for this monster. But Ms. Black had me all up in my feelings.
I'm ready to dive right into the next book, to see what's in store for Kage, Jamie, and Peter.
One of the funniest scenes in these books had to have been Paul and the "present" he thought Kage brought him. I was listening at the gym and I couldn't hold my laughter in!
JF Harding is so perfect as Jamie and Kage- I love how he's given them both such distinct voices that fit so well with their characters. And then to throw Peter into the mix, as a younger man, I really can't get enough.
January 3, 2018
You should know that I absolutely adore Kage and Jamie! The Kage Trilogy is one of my favorite series’ from this genre. I’d advise though, for those who have not read the Kage Trilogy to give it a go first before starting this one because this is obviously not a standalone novel.
The book is called Santori, the first of the The Santori Trilogy which mostly refers to Michael (Kage) and in a roundabout way to his vile uncle, Peter Santori. It picks up right after the event of Peter Santori’s death.
The story is told from the POV of both Kage and Jamie’s (and one quite an important character in the story). It’s very fast-paced mostly recapping what they’ve been up to through their temporary separation since Jamie still has to finish his degree in Atlanta before moving in permanently with Kage in Vegas.
The whole vibe of the story isn’t as dynamic as its predecessor so there’s a bit of a disconnect from Jamie and Kage for me. There’s more telling in it than actually showing if you know what I mean.
I still adore this two but I thought the narrative in general was a bit draggy. Kage keeps on reminding himself that one of the reasons they’ve had problems before was their lack of communication but he’s consciously NOT communicating with Jamie and vice versa. I mean, I get it. They wanted to protect each other and not be a nuisance but if you think about it, they just sound like two immature kids playing house.
The Peter Santori angle was the biggest reveal of this installment but while I find it fascinating, I find it a bit unnecessary to give that much of a space in telling his story. The last few chapters were almost drowned out by him and I got lost wondering about the implications of this reveal. I mean it is shocking but to what extent? The guy is dead, after all.
I don’t want to sound like I hated this book because I honestly don’t. There are fun parts in it especially the Paul-debacle. Gosh, that was over the top hilarious and I’m fucking living for it. I think I’ve to pause reading for a good ten minutes just to laugh! That was really funny and cute!
Now, I am anxious to get hold of the second book because I wanted to know where the author will take this story and up to what extent. It has a lot of exciting possibilities and the very thought that it’s going on the dark side is very much thrilling!
Lastly, that cover featuring Mike Chabot is absolutely swoony!
More of my reviews at Paddylast Inc - Book Reviews.
The book is called Santori, the first of the The Santori Trilogy which mostly refers to Michael (Kage) and in a roundabout way to his vile uncle, Peter Santori. It picks up right after the event of Peter Santori’s death.
The story is told from the POV of both Kage and Jamie’s (and one quite an important character in the story). It’s very fast-paced mostly recapping what they’ve been up to through their temporary separation since Jamie still has to finish his degree in Atlanta before moving in permanently with Kage in Vegas.
The whole vibe of the story isn’t as dynamic as its predecessor so there’s a bit of a disconnect from Jamie and Kage for me. There’s more telling in it than actually showing if you know what I mean.
I still adore this two but I thought the narrative in general was a bit draggy. Kage keeps on reminding himself that one of the reasons they’ve had problems before was their lack of communication but he’s consciously NOT communicating with Jamie and vice versa. I mean, I get it. They wanted to protect each other and not be a nuisance but if you think about it, they just sound like two immature kids playing house.
The Peter Santori angle was the biggest reveal of this installment but while I find it fascinating, I find it a bit unnecessary to give that much of a space in telling his story. The last few chapters were almost drowned out by him and I got lost wondering about the implications of this reveal. I mean it is shocking but to what extent? The guy is dead, after all.
I don’t want to sound like I hated this book because I honestly don’t. There are fun parts in it especially the Paul-debacle. Gosh, that was over the top hilarious and I’m fucking living for it. I think I’ve to pause reading for a good ten minutes just to laugh! That was really funny and cute!
Now, I am anxious to get hold of the second book because I wanted to know where the author will take this story and up to what extent. It has a lot of exciting possibilities and the very thought that it’s going on the dark side is very much thrilling!
Lastly, that cover featuring Mike Chabot is absolutely swoony!
More of my reviews at Paddylast Inc - Book Reviews.
April 25, 2018
I found the original trilogy to be a servicabe fifty shades type mm book without any real spark, but I guess they were those who loved it, they're probably also going to love this sequel trilogy that's all about unreasonable tension and misunderstanding between a couple that has basically already had a HEA aand of course a subplot about the dead psycho uncle's youthful gay romance but I did'nt.
February 2, 2020
I feel like kicking Kage in his golden balls. Honestly. He’s showing Jamie such a lack of respect that if it was with me, I’d have a hard time forgiving him. Lying, hiding important things that also affect Jamie because he thinks Jamie is too precious to be bothered. That’s disgusting in my book.
I hope Jamie leaves his rich, gorgeous ass when he figures things out. And then Kage will have to come crawling for forgiveness. He deserves it. Asshole.
Also, how dare this author make me like Peter Santori? Ugh. Now I need to know what happened to turn him into that awful awful man, when he was such a sweet boy.
I hope Jamie leaves his rich, gorgeous ass when he figures things out. And then Kage will have to come crawling for forgiveness. He deserves it. Asshole.
Also, how dare this author make me like Peter Santori? Ugh. Now I need to know what happened to turn him into that awful awful man, when he was such a sweet boy.
dnf
March 11, 2018No review because I just can't bring myself to finish this. I liked the Kage series fine but this is just... drama that I can't buy into. I might try again some other time.
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