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Hot Wire #2
Backstreets
“Where there’s nothing to gain and everything to lose.”
It’s modest, but after a lifetime spent barely holding on, former car thief Peter Bauer is proud of what he’s managed to achieve. He’s got a legal, legitimate job as a mechanic, a firm grasp on his addictions, and a steady relationship with Nikos Petrakis—stable, handsome, and recently widowed. Nothing is going to upset that, not the ever-present memory of Nik's wife, not the claustrophobia Peter is starting to feel trapped in domestic bliss, not even the sudden reappearance of Peter's ex—the sexy and dangerous Stavros Giannopoulos.
But when Nik's daughter goes missing, Peter will be forced back into the seedy underbelly of the LA crime world, where anything goes. Can his and Nik's relationship survive? Can Peter?
Backstreets is the second book in Kat Cassidy’s Hot Wire series which contains themes of crime, suspense, family drama, hurt/comfort, dark humor, addiction, and abuse. It should not be read as a standalone.
It’s modest, but after a lifetime spent barely holding on, former car thief Peter Bauer is proud of what he’s managed to achieve. He’s got a legal, legitimate job as a mechanic, a firm grasp on his addictions, and a steady relationship with Nikos Petrakis—stable, handsome, and recently widowed. Nothing is going to upset that, not the ever-present memory of Nik's wife, not the claustrophobia Peter is starting to feel trapped in domestic bliss, not even the sudden reappearance of Peter's ex—the sexy and dangerous Stavros Giannopoulos.
But when Nik's daughter goes missing, Peter will be forced back into the seedy underbelly of the LA crime world, where anything goes. Can his and Nik's relationship survive? Can Peter?
Backstreets is the second book in Kat Cassidy’s Hot Wire series which contains themes of crime, suspense, family drama, hurt/comfort, dark humor, addiction, and abuse. It should not be read as a standalone.
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First published March 7, 2019
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About the author
Kat Cassidy
10 books41 followersKat Cassidy is a romance novelist. She’s a dreamer, a schemer and, above all else, a believer in true love. She lives in Canada with her husband, her kids, and her lovable mutt, and she likes loud guitars and strong IPAs.
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March 7, 2019A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
Backstreets picks up where Night Moves leaves off in the Hot Wire series and should not be read as a stand alone. In the first book, we learned about Peter’s young life, his life of crime and abusive father, and then the start of his relationship with Nik. Backstreets picks up several months later as Nik and Peter are trying to stay on the right side of the law.
Peter and Nik both have issues—lots of issues. Peter is dealing with not being a criminal anymore and figuring out who he is, but so much has been done to him both physically and emotionally he can’t relax into his relationship with Nik. Nik loves Peter, but Nik also has the psychological scars surrounding his wife’s death to deal with and he’s not doing well with that.
I was really caught up in this book and this series. The book moves quickly as there is plenty of angst and drama to be found. The relationship between the men is strained and the focus here is the men dealing with seeing where they go next and they are not always in the same place. Talking doesn’t come easy to either of them and things escalate quickly. It was great though to see them break each other down piece by piece. Peter carries most of this series and seeing him figure things out has a huge impact on these books. The secondary characters all serve a purpose and between Nik, Liv, and Nina, the story gets some balance and keeps things interesting.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
Backstreets picks up where Night Moves leaves off in the Hot Wire series and should not be read as a stand alone. In the first book, we learned about Peter’s young life, his life of crime and abusive father, and then the start of his relationship with Nik. Backstreets picks up several months later as Nik and Peter are trying to stay on the right side of the law.
Peter and Nik both have issues—lots of issues. Peter is dealing with not being a criminal anymore and figuring out who he is, but so much has been done to him both physically and emotionally he can’t relax into his relationship with Nik. Nik loves Peter, but Nik also has the psychological scars surrounding his wife’s death to deal with and he’s not doing well with that.
I was really caught up in this book and this series. The book moves quickly as there is plenty of angst and drama to be found. The relationship between the men is strained and the focus here is the men dealing with seeing where they go next and they are not always in the same place. Talking doesn’t come easy to either of them and things escalate quickly. It was great though to see them break each other down piece by piece. Peter carries most of this series and seeing him figure things out has a huge impact on these books. The secondary characters all serve a purpose and between Nik, Liv, and Nina, the story gets some balance and keeps things interesting.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
April 5, 2019
I enjoyed checking up on Peter and Nikos. The author afforded a look at their relationship that was not perfect or even that happy. Both men have misgivings, and trust is not easy to come by when Peter keeps everything close to his chest. Nikos flounders while balancing being a father, a boyfriend and a man who still grieves his wife. Every characters in this book is presented in such a way that makes them look more human prone to making mistakes and having feelings of inadequacy. Even Olivia, Peter's sister, while still being abrasive and mean showed her soft side - there was more to her that met the eye.
I liked that each character had a chance to show what they felt. Even with all the miscommunication that Peter and Nikos had, when trouble came calling everybody helped in finding Mia, Nikos' daughter. The crime world of LA is a pit of vipers with families trying to oust each other out of the game. Peter takes risks with his life to save the little girl that came to mean to him more than he cares to admit. I liked how both men in the end acknowledged their issues and tried to deal with them. Peter started trying to be more open, and Nikos finally started dealing with his grief over losing his wife and slowly started to move on with Peter.
The book has multiple POV, it's fast-paced and is mildly humorous. There were moments filled with tension as well as a bit of sweetness. The ending was a bit of a shocker. I am really curious what will happen next! I recommend it.
I liked that each character had a chance to show what they felt. Even with all the miscommunication that Peter and Nikos had, when trouble came calling everybody helped in finding Mia, Nikos' daughter. The crime world of LA is a pit of vipers with families trying to oust each other out of the game. Peter takes risks with his life to save the little girl that came to mean to him more than he cares to admit. I liked how both men in the end acknowledged their issues and tried to deal with them. Peter started trying to be more open, and Nikos finally started dealing with his grief over losing his wife and slowly started to move on with Peter.
The book has multiple POV, it's fast-paced and is mildly humorous. There were moments filled with tension as well as a bit of sweetness. The ending was a bit of a shocker. I am really curious what will happen next! I recommend it.
January 28, 2020
"Backstreets" is the sequel to Night Moves which was at times a difficult book to read. One of the MCs, Peter, survived a horrible childhood with an absentee mother (who disappeared one night never to be seen again) and a psychopath for a father. It's gut wrenching seeing Peter's father Erik crush his soul (as well as his bones).
As "Backstreets" starts, Peter is still standing due to equal parts dumb luck and sheer determination. He's out of prison and is struggling to find his place in Nik's life as well as home. Nik's home is overflowing with loving memories of his wife Helena and Peter is desperate for assurance of his place in Nik's life. "I just want you to make some space for me in your life. Like you want me. Like I fucking matter to you."
I love how Kat Cassidy explores all the nuances of their relationship - the love they share that Peter can't quite vocalize yet, the way Nik supports and accepts Peter, the way the two are better together than apart. But just as they are working on their issues, Nik's beloved daughter Mia is taken. The plot kicks into high gear as Peter, Nik, Peter's sister Liv and Nina (Nik's sister-in-law) work to find the little girl while dealing with old rivalries and old loves.
Cassidy constructs a plot that really holds your interest, pairing it with a relationship that, on the surface, seems so unlikely yet is what each man needs. The sex is hot, but the way they are willing to really work on the relationship together is even hotter. And I love the way Cassidy fleshes out her characters, particularly Nina's off-beat budding romance where guns left on the porch substitute for candy and flowers. It's more than a bit heartbreaking to watch Liv try to keep the family business together in the ruthless way her father taught her, all the while acknowledging "Pretending shit's fine when it's not is what we do best." And Peter's sharp sense of the absurd keeps me laughing:
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
As "Backstreets" starts, Peter is still standing due to equal parts dumb luck and sheer determination. He's out of prison and is struggling to find his place in Nik's life as well as home. Nik's home is overflowing with loving memories of his wife Helena and Peter is desperate for assurance of his place in Nik's life. "I just want you to make some space for me in your life. Like you want me. Like I fucking matter to you."
I love how Kat Cassidy explores all the nuances of their relationship - the love they share that Peter can't quite vocalize yet, the way Nik supports and accepts Peter, the way the two are better together than apart. But just as they are working on their issues, Nik's beloved daughter Mia is taken. The plot kicks into high gear as Peter, Nik, Peter's sister Liv and Nina (Nik's sister-in-law) work to find the little girl while dealing with old rivalries and old loves.
Cassidy constructs a plot that really holds your interest, pairing it with a relationship that, on the surface, seems so unlikely yet is what each man needs. The sex is hot, but the way they are willing to really work on the relationship together is even hotter. And I love the way Cassidy fleshes out her characters, particularly Nina's off-beat budding romance where guns left on the porch substitute for candy and flowers. It's more than a bit heartbreaking to watch Liv try to keep the family business together in the ruthless way her father taught her, all the while acknowledging "Pretending shit's fine when it's not is what we do best." And Peter's sharp sense of the absurd keeps me laughing:
"Good morning, handsome," Nik said. Peter need a shave, [...] He was pretty sure he looked like a greasy sack of shit. But it was nice of Nik to lie to him.This book really worked for me - a great tight plot, fascinating multi-dimensional nuanced characters, a love that suffered some major setbacks yet survived and thrived, and an epilogue that really capped off the tale. There is a final book to the Hot Wire series coming Winter 2019; I can't wait to see if Liv gets a chance at happiness, I'm sorta giddy imagining the progression of Nina's gun-fueled relationship, and I sincerely want to see Peter and Nik safe, settled and still deeply in love. 4.5 stars.
I received an ARC from the author in exchange for an honest review.
Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews
March 11, 2019
🌟🌟🌟🌟 4.5 stars
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
This series keeps getting better! A thrilling ride, with twist and turns I didn’t see coming!
I’m loving Peter and Nik. Both such deep characters with a fair bit of baggage trying to find a balance in each other’s lives and families.
Backstreets was a whirlwind, I couldn’t put it down! A dangerous adventure from start to finish but with such captivating characters the journey means so much more! Following on from book one Peter and Nik are finding their feet in their new relationship while dealing with real life issues. Nik is still mourning the loss of his wife Helena and Peter is trying his best to stay straight and continuing to fight his addiction. I love Kat honesty when dealing with addiction. It’s a hard ride to lead a life with addiction and honesty, even with fictional characters can help others understand the struggle!
This book explores more of the crime families of LA’s seedy underbelly but this allows for some awesome secondary characters. While the story could be considered on the darker side, Kat injects wit and comic relief throughout the story to create a balanced thrill ride where these characters grow and strengthen both together and individually.
This series has great secondary characters and I have to give a special shout out to Nina. She’s hilarious, tough and clueless all at the same time! She and Peter have a very unique relationship and by the end of this book have finally reached a peaceful agreement.
Now for the Epilogue: O.M.G. Kat, what have you done!!! Now I can’t wait for the next book!!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
🔥🔥🔥 Heat Level: 3.5
This series keeps getting better! A thrilling ride, with twist and turns I didn’t see coming!
I’m loving Peter and Nik. Both such deep characters with a fair bit of baggage trying to find a balance in each other’s lives and families.
Backstreets was a whirlwind, I couldn’t put it down! A dangerous adventure from start to finish but with such captivating characters the journey means so much more! Following on from book one Peter and Nik are finding their feet in their new relationship while dealing with real life issues. Nik is still mourning the loss of his wife Helena and Peter is trying his best to stay straight and continuing to fight his addiction. I love Kat honesty when dealing with addiction. It’s a hard ride to lead a life with addiction and honesty, even with fictional characters can help others understand the struggle!
This book explores more of the crime families of LA’s seedy underbelly but this allows for some awesome secondary characters. While the story could be considered on the darker side, Kat injects wit and comic relief throughout the story to create a balanced thrill ride where these characters grow and strengthen both together and individually.
This series has great secondary characters and I have to give a special shout out to Nina. She’s hilarious, tough and clueless all at the same time! She and Peter have a very unique relationship and by the end of this book have finally reached a peaceful agreement.
Now for the Epilogue: O.M.G. Kat, what have you done!!! Now I can’t wait for the next book!!!
Thanks for reading! For great stories, reviews and more please visit https://bookstattoosandtea.wordpress.com 📚
February 15, 2019
4.5 Stars
Wow, this was quite the follow up to book one, Night Moves and kept me glued to the couch all evening. This one picks up nearly a year after Peter got out and went “straight” and I would have liked to see more of that in-between time. Peter and Nik have hit a rough point in their relationship. Peter’s fears, some guilt and too much self-pity make him oblivious to Nik being troubled. I feel sorry for Peter but the man has serious issues. Then Mia is taken and things really kick off. Olivia and Nina get some individual page time as they pair up with Nick and Peter to find Mia, starting with why she was taken. I’m just so impressed with how the author takes the various characters through rapidly changing scenarios, managing to keep the action and suspense from overtaking romantic elements. The way the narrative is written reveals everything I needed to know at just the right points, so the narrative unfolds very organically. There was only one niggle that I had about a specific event but would be a spoiler if I told you what it is. It didn’t keep me from loving this book. It’s a great sequel and the ending is everything it needed to be for an HEA. However, the author is not done with them yet and I’m figuratively holding my breath for the next book.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
Wow, this was quite the follow up to book one, Night Moves and kept me glued to the couch all evening. This one picks up nearly a year after Peter got out and went “straight” and I would have liked to see more of that in-between time. Peter and Nik have hit a rough point in their relationship. Peter’s fears, some guilt and too much self-pity make him oblivious to Nik being troubled. I feel sorry for Peter but the man has serious issues. Then Mia is taken and things really kick off. Olivia and Nina get some individual page time as they pair up with Nick and Peter to find Mia, starting with why she was taken. I’m just so impressed with how the author takes the various characters through rapidly changing scenarios, managing to keep the action and suspense from overtaking romantic elements. The way the narrative is written reveals everything I needed to know at just the right points, so the narrative unfolds very organically. There was only one niggle that I had about a specific event but would be a spoiler if I told you what it is. It didn’t keep me from loving this book. It’s a great sequel and the ending is everything it needed to be for an HEA. However, the author is not done with them yet and I’m figuratively holding my breath for the next book.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
March 7, 2019
Backstreets picks up about a year after Night Moves ended and, because it’s a continuation of Nik and Peter’s story, doesn’t work as a standalone. Like the first book, Backstreets is very fast-paced, driven by action and suspense. In fact, the action scenes had me much more on the edge of my seat this time around, partially because of their excitement and partially because I am now very invested in these characters. Not only did the action step it up, but with Nik and Peter being an established couple from the get go, there was much more in the way of their love story. The Hot Wire series is definitely proving to be a fun ride and I’m loving all the flawed, unique characters.
Going in, I was eager for more time with Nik and Peter and I liked the way Backstreets addressed the men’s relationship- divulging the difficult transitions both men face starting new lives together while trying to leave their pasts behind. From a romantic standpoint, it was nice to see a deeper side to the relationship that was primarily fueled by chemistry in Night Moves. The relationship conflicts and resolutions represented the characters well, never seeming overly dramatic, and I was happy with the way things closed with these two as a couple, especially since we got a bit closer to a happily-ever-after than the first book. I also liked seeing the secondary characters play bigger roles in Backstreets. Seeing different interactions added more depth to the main characters, giving them opportunities for personal growth, while also enhancing the series as a whole. And that ending! Though it’s not a cliff-hanger, there’s a great tease at the close of Backstreets that ensures I’ll be eagerly awaiting the third and final book in the Hot Wire series.
*eARC received via author. The author had no influence over this review*
Going in, I was eager for more time with Nik and Peter and I liked the way Backstreets addressed the men’s relationship- divulging the difficult transitions both men face starting new lives together while trying to leave their pasts behind. From a romantic standpoint, it was nice to see a deeper side to the relationship that was primarily fueled by chemistry in Night Moves. The relationship conflicts and resolutions represented the characters well, never seeming overly dramatic, and I was happy with the way things closed with these two as a couple, especially since we got a bit closer to a happily-ever-after than the first book. I also liked seeing the secondary characters play bigger roles in Backstreets. Seeing different interactions added more depth to the main characters, giving them opportunities for personal growth, while also enhancing the series as a whole. And that ending! Though it’s not a cliff-hanger, there’s a great tease at the close of Backstreets that ensures I’ll be eagerly awaiting the third and final book in the Hot Wire series.
*eARC received via author. The author had no influence over this review*
July 18, 2019
In this latest addition we see Peter and Nikos struggling as a couple. Nik is still mourning his wife and the house is like a shrine to her. He hasn't gotten rid of anything. Peter doesn't even have a drawer and is basically living out of his duffel bag. All Peter wants is have a place in Nik's life, center stage, and not feel like the condolence prize. Instead of sitting down and discussing this, there is a yelling confrontation and Nik asks for some space. Of course, Peter hears it as being let go. After all the years that his POS father made him feel like the lowest form of life, he doesn't think he is worthy of being loved and wanted. In the last book I was on the fence with Nina. In the beginning of this book I was like, she isn't so bad & think I kind of like her. But when Mia goes missing, the first person she blames is Peter & accuses him of taking her. Not sure to what ends but nevertheless she does and I'm back to not liking her. To find Mia, Peter has to slip back into his criminal side and does some things that he shouldn't have. They do finally find Mia and the reasoning why she was taken. Peter pisses off a bunch of people and his sister takes the brunt of that. But in the end, Nikos finally starts to move forward and starts to put away everything that is Helena. You are never going to totally be over a loss of a loved one, but you will be able to live. These two had a real struggle to live as a couple but they are slowly moving forward now in the right direction. I like that they are portrayed as normal, flawed individuals and not magically healed and living in a fairytale world.
ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
ARC provided by LesCourt Services in exchange for an honest review.
March 4, 2019
Peter and Nick have sort of-maybe, settled in together. Peter works at Nik’s fairly successful car repair shop. So what if Nik hasn’t removed his wife’s pictures or cleaned out a drawer so Peter doesn’t have to live out of a duffle bag. It’s not ideal, but Peter is determined to make it with Nik. When Nik tells him he loves him, Peter can’t say it back.
Then Nik’s daughter Mia is kidnapped, thrusting Peter back into the world he worked so hard to get out of. Surprisingly enough, Peter’s sister helps him to try and find Nik’s little girl. Time is not on their side as they try to discover just who took her.
This book introduced some new characters. Most of them bad guys. I loved Nik’s sister, she was a great foil for Peter. I really liked their interactions. Olivia (Peter’s sister) was still not likable, even as she was helping search for Mia, she still took every opportunity to make him feel like less. I liked this addition to the series.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Then Nik’s daughter Mia is kidnapped, thrusting Peter back into the world he worked so hard to get out of. Surprisingly enough, Peter’s sister helps him to try and find Nik’s little girl. Time is not on their side as they try to discover just who took her.
This book introduced some new characters. Most of them bad guys. I loved Nik’s sister, she was a great foil for Peter. I really liked their interactions. Olivia (Peter’s sister) was still not likable, even as she was helping search for Mia, she still took every opportunity to make him feel like less. I liked this addition to the series.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
March 9, 2019
The sequel to Night Moves is a dark tale filled with suspense and twists that will have you turning the pages as fast as you can! Looking forward to the final book already and finding out how Nik and Peter's story ends.
March 13, 2019
3,5
Kinda classical mafia/crime family plot - someone who means a lot to one of the main characters, gets kidnapped. Everyone else runs against time to find out who did it and to get the person back.
So - action, different crime families, cars and love.
For me personally - i was not sold on love. You can throw a tomato at me, i don't care, but i did not believe that Nick is over his dead wife and loves Peter. His house was still in a condition like she is still living there(when she is dead at least a year) and he thinks about Peter moving in? In that shrine to Helen? Where he doesn't even have one shelf for his stuff while she still has whole closet when she is dead?? Really?
In my eyes Nick was not over Helen and will never be. I did not felt that love story between them. Peter is far from saint himself. O hell, i'm not saying he is an angel, but still... i completely understand his feelings and how he felt like bad plan B. Second choice just because the perfect wife is dead now.
For me, the really interesting character was Olivia. Damn, that woman. Also - far from saint. But that's why i loved her. I'm extremely tired of stupid, trembling and blushing snowflakes who can barely speak. Olivia is a woman with gun and mafia legacy.
First book was hard to read. For a lot of reasons and i really don't want to go back there and talk about it. I want to move on.
This one - i read in one day. It was a fast, action driven read. I liked to see all those different crime families. Also - Peter's ex was well written. Dark, criminal, bad, devilish, addicted and addicting.
Overall - love story part did not work for me personally. But mafia part - that was interesting :)
Kinda classical mafia/crime family plot - someone who means a lot to one of the main characters, gets kidnapped. Everyone else runs against time to find out who did it and to get the person back.
So - action, different crime families, cars and love.
For me personally - i was not sold on love. You can throw a tomato at me, i don't care, but i did not believe that Nick is over his dead wife and loves Peter. His house was still in a condition like she is still living there(when she is dead at least a year) and he thinks about Peter moving in? In that shrine to Helen? Where he doesn't even have one shelf for his stuff while she still has whole closet when she is dead?? Really?
In my eyes Nick was not over Helen and will never be. I did not felt that love story between them. Peter is far from saint himself. O hell, i'm not saying he is an angel, but still... i completely understand his feelings and how he felt like bad plan B. Second choice just because the perfect wife is dead now.
For me, the really interesting character was Olivia. Damn, that woman. Also - far from saint. But that's why i loved her. I'm extremely tired of stupid, trembling and blushing snowflakes who can barely speak. Olivia is a woman with gun and mafia legacy.
First book was hard to read. For a lot of reasons and i really don't want to go back there and talk about it. I want to move on.
This one - i read in one day. It was a fast, action driven read. I liked to see all those different crime families. Also - Peter's ex was well written. Dark, criminal, bad, devilish, addicted and addicting.
Overall - love story part did not work for me personally. But mafia part - that was interesting :)
March 6, 2019
As a second book in the series, I wouldn't recommend this as a standalone. That being said, you should absolutely pick up the first book if you haven't. This series is so full of action, suspense, thrills and romance.
We pick up a few months were we left off with Nik being the affectionate, sweet but dirty widower in love with the newly reformed bad boy Peter. But not everything is roses. Peter is having a hard time fitting into the home of Nik and his late wife and it's coming up on the anniversary of her death. With that tension between them, Nik's daughter is taken from school.
Since Peter is out of the game, they have to rely on Peter's sister and father to help them figure out which Family is involved in the abduction and then decide if there's still enough between them to make it work.
I really love Kat Cassidy's writing style. It seems effortless and fun, but is so fast paced and full of action. The characters are seemingly simple, yet are so capable of twisting your emotions on a dime. This is really well done and I'm excited for another book!
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
We pick up a few months were we left off with Nik being the affectionate, sweet but dirty widower in love with the newly reformed bad boy Peter. But not everything is roses. Peter is having a hard time fitting into the home of Nik and his late wife and it's coming up on the anniversary of her death. With that tension between them, Nik's daughter is taken from school.
Since Peter is out of the game, they have to rely on Peter's sister and father to help them figure out which Family is involved in the abduction and then decide if there's still enough between them to make it work.
I really love Kat Cassidy's writing style. It seems effortless and fun, but is so fast paced and full of action. The characters are seemingly simple, yet are so capable of twisting your emotions on a dime. This is really well done and I'm excited for another book!
*Galley copy generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review. Cross posted to http://gaybook.reviews/ *
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March 8, 2019The second part of this series is just as great as the first. The book picks up when Peter gets out of jail. Pete is having a hard time adjusting to living the straight life and Nick is having a hard time letting go of his deceased wife. The interactions between Peter and Nina are so entertaining and I loved the hurt him speech they are had at the beginning of the book. The book is entertaining from the beginning to the end. I hope you enjoy it as much as I did.
March 7, 2019
When you've barely finished the second book and am already anticipating the third, you know you're onto a good thing.
The Hot Wire series is edge of your seat action and you'll keep guessing the whole time as to what will happen next. I like the gritty realism of Nik and Peter's relationship, the formal way Nik speaks, the tension between Peter and his sister and the way the underworld of LA is depicted.
This is a series worth picking up, I eagerly await bk3! A solid 4.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
The Hot Wire series is edge of your seat action and you'll keep guessing the whole time as to what will happen next. I like the gritty realism of Nik and Peter's relationship, the formal way Nik speaks, the tension between Peter and his sister and the way the underworld of LA is depicted.
This is a series worth picking up, I eagerly await bk3! A solid 4.5 stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
March 7, 2019
This book was a great sequel to book 1, Night Moves. I honestly can't get enough of these two men, both so broken in their own ways but fighting to put themselves back together. They need each other so much but it's almost like neither are willing to jump in and be the first to admit exactly what they want or need, that is until Peter finally opens his mouth and lets it all fly out. The ups and downs for poor Peter in this book take you on a roller coaster ride but once he gets his feet on stable ground he realizes everything is there for him if he is willing to open his arms and grab it.
I loved the ending and to me it was a shocker on who pulled the trigger killing Nik's wife and BIL. Great book.
I loved the ending and to me it was a shocker on who pulled the trigger killing Nik's wife and BIL. Great book.
January 10, 2022
4.5/5⭐
[I received a digital copy for an honest review]
Backstreets is the second book in Kat Cassidy's Hot Wire series and I enjoyed this significantly more than the first one. It is driven by action and emotion and once I started I couldn't put it down.
"Nik could f*cking hurt in a heartbeat already if he wanted to. Love... love could annihilate him."
Taking place a year after the first book ends things aren't exactly going smoothly with Peter and Nik. Nik hasn't fully processed his wife death and Peter is still very emotionally damaged by his upbringing. While Nik seems to have their lives on fast forwards, Peter would feel more comfortable on slow motion. Their lack of communication drives a wedge between them until they both exploded. When Nik's daughter Mia goes missing, Peter has to prove that he has what it takes to be worthy of Nik and has to use the life he walked away from to get his little girl back.
"That was it, wasn't it? It didn't matter how may inroads to legitimacy Peter tried to make, he would always be just a criminal and a f*ck -up in the end, wouldn't he?"
Backstreets was another emotional wringer like the first book. Nik's chapters hurt my heart and you can feel his struggles through the pages. Both of these main characters have such deep issues that I feel like they will always be struggling with them but at least they are will to try. Peter who is already unstable, is really struggling with who he is if he isn't a car thief and going on the straight and narrow is making him more unstable than ever. One of the many things I really liked is that the story isn't full of unnecessary sex scenes. There's only a few physical scenes in it but that doesn't make this any less of a strong romance between two complicated men.
"Peter could feel Nik smiling against his mouth even as he kissed him. It felt like home."
After this book I feel like a kid in a candy store saying "gimme, gimme" because I desperately want more of these characters. I'm officially a fan and look forward to reading all of Kat Cassidy's books!
[I received a digital copy for an honest review]
Backstreets is the second book in Kat Cassidy's Hot Wire series and I enjoyed this significantly more than the first one. It is driven by action and emotion and once I started I couldn't put it down.
"Nik could f*cking hurt in a heartbeat already if he wanted to. Love... love could annihilate him."
Taking place a year after the first book ends things aren't exactly going smoothly with Peter and Nik. Nik hasn't fully processed his wife death and Peter is still very emotionally damaged by his upbringing. While Nik seems to have their lives on fast forwards, Peter would feel more comfortable on slow motion. Their lack of communication drives a wedge between them until they both exploded. When Nik's daughter Mia goes missing, Peter has to prove that he has what it takes to be worthy of Nik and has to use the life he walked away from to get his little girl back.
"That was it, wasn't it? It didn't matter how may inroads to legitimacy Peter tried to make, he would always be just a criminal and a f*ck -up in the end, wouldn't he?"
Backstreets was another emotional wringer like the first book. Nik's chapters hurt my heart and you can feel his struggles through the pages. Both of these main characters have such deep issues that I feel like they will always be struggling with them but at least they are will to try. Peter who is already unstable, is really struggling with who he is if he isn't a car thief and going on the straight and narrow is making him more unstable than ever. One of the many things I really liked is that the story isn't full of unnecessary sex scenes. There's only a few physical scenes in it but that doesn't make this any less of a strong romance between two complicated men.
"Peter could feel Nik smiling against his mouth even as he kissed him. It felt like home."
After this book I feel like a kid in a candy store saying "gimme, gimme" because I desperately want more of these characters. I'm officially a fan and look forward to reading all of Kat Cassidy's books!
July 17, 2019
Falls flat.
Writing a follow-up to a good debut book has got to be hard. It's easier to have some mistakes, but improve with future installments. This, unfortunately, is a step down from the first book. The first story was tight; building the characters & scenario in a way that drew you in. With the first book, you never know if readers will want a second, so the author made sure it could stand alone if it didn't succeed. Having had success with it, though, the series was allowed to grow in the author's mind. Too much of this book is clearly written to set up the third installment. The expanded focus on Nina & Olivia is nice, but it came at the wrong time in this story causing focus & the escalation of the plot to fragment then ultimately falter. I often complain of melodrama, but the whole revelation of Stavros's role in things was too anticlimactic. Peter's reaction was literally, "Sure, sorry." I know he was saying that more because he disagreed with the theory, but couldn't argue it at that time, but really? It was just the wrong time & place for it. So much in this one was ill timed or misplaced. The author was clearly focusing toward on the next installment & forgot that they had a lot to do in this book. I still love Nikos, though, & his character stayed an anchor for the plot to come back to. Peter, though, his character really dropped in my opinion & he did not redeem himself by the end of this so hopefully he'll have it together in/by the conclusion. If I were rating this as a standalone, it would only get 2 stars. With it being part of a continuing series there's enough momentum carrying over from the first book to keep me with the characters until the end. I'm definitely interested in seeing where it goes.
Writing a follow-up to a good debut book has got to be hard. It's easier to have some mistakes, but improve with future installments. This, unfortunately, is a step down from the first book. The first story was tight; building the characters & scenario in a way that drew you in. With the first book, you never know if readers will want a second, so the author made sure it could stand alone if it didn't succeed. Having had success with it, though, the series was allowed to grow in the author's mind. Too much of this book is clearly written to set up the third installment. The expanded focus on Nina & Olivia is nice, but it came at the wrong time in this story causing focus & the escalation of the plot to fragment then ultimately falter. I often complain of melodrama, but the whole revelation of Stavros's role in things was too anticlimactic. Peter's reaction was literally, "Sure, sorry." I know he was saying that more because he disagreed with the theory, but couldn't argue it at that time, but really? It was just the wrong time & place for it. So much in this one was ill timed or misplaced. The author was clearly focusing toward on the next installment & forgot that they had a lot to do in this book. I still love Nikos, though, & his character stayed an anchor for the plot to come back to. Peter, though, his character really dropped in my opinion & he did not redeem himself by the end of this so hopefully he'll have it together in/by the conclusion. If I were rating this as a standalone, it would only get 2 stars. With it being part of a continuing series there's enough momentum carrying over from the first book to keep me with the characters until the end. I'm definitely interested in seeing where it goes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2022
A lot more emotional, packs a punch, had a lot of Emotional moments and I loved the relationship between our main characters and how it was explored in this book.
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My Rating : 4/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟
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Now in this book, Peter and Nikos are in a relationship after the drama that was book one. The development in their relationship and the way Peter's character was written was so much more heart punching and the whole book in general was a lot more emotional. I still think the sister + sister in law duo was a kick-ass and I want them on my side. The effect of Peter's emotional trauma and his childhood on his current relationship was done really well here. The relationship development was one of my favourites to read about. With the stress of kidnapping, bargaining and trust issues, I loved reading about the characters at their most vulnerable state. It gave so much depth and it made me invest myself emotionally in the characters. I love when a book makes me invest.
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Coming to the story and character development, I absolutely loved Peter and his vulnerability in this book. It had so much more energy and packed a punch than the previous book. The extra characters we got in this book was a nice touch as well. I know there are still answers to be had, but I'm really loving how the story is going, and I can't wait to read the next book!
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Thank you GayRomanceReviews for the gifted arc !
Review Title - Hot Wire : Complete Collection ( Backstreets is Book 2 in the collection )
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Book 16b - January 2022 / Arc / GRR
Tags : MM Crime Romance, Family Drama
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My Rating : 4/5 🌟🌟🌟🌟
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Now in this book, Peter and Nikos are in a relationship after the drama that was book one. The development in their relationship and the way Peter's character was written was so much more heart punching and the whole book in general was a lot more emotional. I still think the sister + sister in law duo was a kick-ass and I want them on my side. The effect of Peter's emotional trauma and his childhood on his current relationship was done really well here. The relationship development was one of my favourites to read about. With the stress of kidnapping, bargaining and trust issues, I loved reading about the characters at their most vulnerable state. It gave so much depth and it made me invest myself emotionally in the characters. I love when a book makes me invest.
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Coming to the story and character development, I absolutely loved Peter and his vulnerability in this book. It had so much more energy and packed a punch than the previous book. The extra characters we got in this book was a nice touch as well. I know there are still answers to be had, but I'm really loving how the story is going, and I can't wait to read the next book!
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Thank you GayRomanceReviews for the gifted arc !
Review Title - Hot Wire : Complete Collection ( Backstreets is Book 2 in the collection )
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Book 16b - January 2022 / Arc / GRR
Tags : MM Crime Romance, Family Drama
March 13, 2019
Excellent second book of a series.
After I'd finished the first book in this series I decided that, although the story was very good, I didn't like Nik, one of the MCs. However, I had to read this one just to find out what came next.
From the beginning, this is a completely absorbing thriller. It is full of action, but more than that, the story brilliantly portrays the struggle of an addict and the long term affect of constant emotional and physical child abuse.
Both Nik and Peter are shown to be fallible and human at times, and it is this realism that gives the story emotional content and depth. This is not your typical romance novel where the two MCs meet, fall in love, experience a little angst, reunite and find their HEA.
There is some romance, it's present as the two fight their demons and somehow come through for one another time and time again; although at times, it really did feel a little touch and go.
It's a very well written book, with characters of great depth. There is no romantic HEA, but there is another, final book in the series. Looking forward to seeing where it takes Peter and Nik. Must add that this not a standalone. It's a direct follow on from Book one
After I'd finished the first book in this series I decided that, although the story was very good, I didn't like Nik, one of the MCs. However, I had to read this one just to find out what came next.
From the beginning, this is a completely absorbing thriller. It is full of action, but more than that, the story brilliantly portrays the struggle of an addict and the long term affect of constant emotional and physical child abuse.
Both Nik and Peter are shown to be fallible and human at times, and it is this realism that gives the story emotional content and depth. This is not your typical romance novel where the two MCs meet, fall in love, experience a little angst, reunite and find their HEA.
There is some romance, it's present as the two fight their demons and somehow come through for one another time and time again; although at times, it really did feel a little touch and go.
It's a very well written book, with characters of great depth. There is no romantic HEA, but there is another, final book in the series. Looking forward to seeing where it takes Peter and Nik. Must add that this not a standalone. It's a direct follow on from Book one
March 15, 2019
4 Stars
Backstreets is book 2 in the Hot Wire series and it can't be read as a standalone.
I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one even though I felt so bad for Peter and I wanted to slap/punch/kick/take your pick everyone else. Really, I get that Nik was still grieving for his wife, it hasn't been that long since she died, but to not even empty a drawer for Peter in his home and yet expect Peter to move in with Nik and his daughter where he feels less than welcome among Helena's things and say I love you back when Peter wasn't even all that sure Nik meant it when he said it in the first place? Nope, definitely not a fan of Nik, even if I don't dislike him as much as I did in book one.
As you might've noticed my favorite is Peter and while I warmed up to Nik a bit more, I'm still not a 100% sold on their relationship. Still, progress is progress, right?
I so don't like Liv, Peter's sister, and I don't think that's going to change.
I enjoyed the action in this book, it was riveting and well-done and I'm intrigued over what Ms. Cassidy has planned for Peter and Nik next. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Backstreets is book 2 in the Hot Wire series and it can't be read as a standalone.
I actually enjoyed this book more than the first one even though I felt so bad for Peter and I wanted to slap/punch/kick/take your pick everyone else. Really, I get that Nik was still grieving for his wife, it hasn't been that long since she died, but to not even empty a drawer for Peter in his home and yet expect Peter to move in with Nik and his daughter where he feels less than welcome among Helena's things and say I love you back when Peter wasn't even all that sure Nik meant it when he said it in the first place? Nope, definitely not a fan of Nik, even if I don't dislike him as much as I did in book one.
As you might've noticed my favorite is Peter and while I warmed up to Nik a bit more, I'm still not a 100% sold on their relationship. Still, progress is progress, right?
I so don't like Liv, Peter's sister, and I don't think that's going to change.
I enjoyed the action in this book, it was riveting and well-done and I'm intrigued over what Ms. Cassidy has planned for Peter and Nik next. Recommendable!
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
March 22, 2019
Backstreets is the second book in the Hot Wire series by author Kat Cassidy. This story takes place a year after Night Moves, and is not a stand-alone novel. This one is the what happens next for Peter and Niko.
Peter is having a hard time adjusting to going to the straight and narrow way of life. He is also having a little bit of a hard time committing fully. He is used to things being taken from him so he is cautious with his heart. I also think he has a hard time knowing just where he fits in now.
Niko is loving and kind but still getting over his own pain and loss. So, he inadvertently is making Peter feel worse.
I do love how this story flows. It is very natural nothing seems forced or unnecessary. There is plenty of mystery, action, and adventure to keep me turning the pages. There is a ton of love here too. I really am looking forward to more from this series it is well written and has a great story arc. Plus, I cannot get enough of Peter and Niko. Need more of them!
Five Shooting Stars
Peter is having a hard time adjusting to going to the straight and narrow way of life. He is also having a little bit of a hard time committing fully. He is used to things being taken from him so he is cautious with his heart. I also think he has a hard time knowing just where he fits in now.
Niko is loving and kind but still getting over his own pain and loss. So, he inadvertently is making Peter feel worse.
I do love how this story flows. It is very natural nothing seems forced or unnecessary. There is plenty of mystery, action, and adventure to keep me turning the pages. There is a ton of love here too. I really am looking forward to more from this series it is well written and has a great story arc. Plus, I cannot get enough of Peter and Niko. Need more of them!
Five Shooting Stars
July 30, 2019
Backstreets is the second book in the Hot Wire Series by Kat Cassidy. It continues the story where the first book left off. This book focuses alot on the fallout from the events of the past. Nik is trying to figure out how to move on in life and make room for Peter, while not feeling like he is betraying his deceased wife. Peter is adjusting to life as an ex-con, living the clean life and also dealing with insecurity in his relationships. To add more drama and suspense, an ex rears his dirty head and wrecks havoc, Nik and Nina want justice for their spouses' murders, and other things are in play that threaten their family and the future.
This book draws us in even further into this world of crime and recovery. There is suspense, action, violence, danger... there is also family vs Family and then there is LOVE. So much going on in this book and each moment is exciting and interesting. I really am enjoying this series.
I received an advanced reader's copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
This book draws us in even further into this world of crime and recovery. There is suspense, action, violence, danger... there is also family vs Family and then there is LOVE. So much going on in this book and each moment is exciting and interesting. I really am enjoying this series.
I received an advanced reader's copy and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
August 10, 2019
4.25* Backstreets is the second in the Hot Wire series by Kat Cassidy. I liked this book more than the first in the series - I'm not sure if I was more prepared for the angst or the morally gray characters, but I can't wait for the third in the series to see where they go from here.
In Backstreets, you have all of the characters and players in the criminal gangs. You know more about the characters, how they interact with each other, and even though there's just as much crime shown and then the kidnapping of Nikos's daughter, Mia, the connections are forming and growing.
I liked Olivia and Nina's scene in this book, but I still have no idea how I feel about Olivia overall. She's a very interesting character. I liked that Nikos and Peter finally started to talk out their issues and not just make assumptions about the other, and that there was more romance shown between the two - or at the very least, they were forming a lasting relationship.
Content warning for this one: on page drug use
In Backstreets, you have all of the characters and players in the criminal gangs. You know more about the characters, how they interact with each other, and even though there's just as much crime shown and then the kidnapping of Nikos's daughter, Mia, the connections are forming and growing.
I liked Olivia and Nina's scene in this book, but I still have no idea how I feel about Olivia overall. She's a very interesting character. I liked that Nikos and Peter finally started to talk out their issues and not just make assumptions about the other, and that there was more romance shown between the two - or at the very least, they were forming a lasting relationship.
Content warning for this one: on page drug use
March 8, 2019
Action packed, fast-paced, with intensity and suspense on their journey to love. I fell in love with Peter and Nikos in Night Moves and my heartstrings were tugged in this touching and emotional story-line. I enjoyed the characters's complexity and they had me wanting to hug them along the way. I was glued to my kindle and found this a book i could not put down.
Backstreets is the second book in the Hot Wire Series and must be read in order. This book is not a stand-alone because it is a continuation of Nik and Peter’s story.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
Backstreets is the second book in the Hot Wire Series and must be read in order. This book is not a stand-alone because it is a continuation of Nik and Peter’s story.
I am looking forward to the next book in this series.
December 24, 2019
The author hits her stride in the second installment of the Hot Wire series. Complex relationships evolve between even more complex characters making Backstreets an interesting, engaging read. The path to love isn't smooth for this couple, though their relationship does take center stage more in this book. The two men are an unlikely couple, but somehow the pairing works, and the action kept me interested even when I wasn't sure they would remain together. Another short read, but it does not feel short. It is NOT a standalone. If you like books that are gritty, realistic-ish, with few hearts and flowers, get this book and the first one, Night Moves. *I received an arc of this book.*
July 22, 2019
Backstreets picks up shortly after where we left Nik and Peter. They are still trying to find their patterns together and Peter more so after going legit. But insert the angsty. Communication is a problem with these two - like I want to yell at both of them type of mistakes. And when drama comes their way they have to figure out how to get past their problems to solve the bigger issue. This was a fast past story with lots of crime stories to be told. I love these two knuckleheads. And the epilogue makes you wonder what will be next for this family.
April 24, 2019
It was such a joy to be back with these sweet, emotionally stunted boys again! The surprising star of the show for me though was the little side adventure with Olivia and Nina-- two badass side characters who love guns and their brothers (/in law). While much of the rest of the book was tense and full of twists and turns, their chapters had me laughing out loud (and of course, rooting for the CO to steal Olivia's heart ;))
And, phew, that epilogue... I can't wait for the next book!
And, phew, that epilogue... I can't wait for the next book!
August 11, 2019
Kicking off a few months after the exciting events of Hot Wire #1, Night Moves, Backstreets is the continuation of the blossoming relationship of reformed car theif Peter and garage owner Nik. They've had some troubles to get to this point, but they're working on their new legitimate life. Trouble catches up with our sexy boys again though and nothing will stop Nik and Peter from getting back what is theirs. Another superb action romance from Kat Cassidy. I sincerely hope there will be a #3
August 7, 2019
Backstreets picks up where Night Moves leaves off in the Hot Wire series and should not be read as a stand alone. it’s a continuation of Nik and Peter’s story. THis story is filled with suspense and twists that will have you turning the pages as fast as you can. I really enjoyed this It was a fast, action driven read.
July 30, 2019
This is the second book in the series. For me it was just okay. I didn’t enjoy the chapters with looks into side characters in the story, it felt like filler to me. I did like both Peter and Nik and their struggles to be together.
January 18, 2020
excellent read
fast paced, engaging and with two MCs each dealing with their own flaws and vulnerabilities, but nevertheless rising above their weaknesses when the other one needs them. I'm going straight back for more!
fast paced, engaging and with two MCs each dealing with their own flaws and vulnerabilities, but nevertheless rising above their weaknesses when the other one needs them. I'm going straight back for more!
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