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Le voleur de coeur
Responsable et discipliné, William Fox est devenu agent du FBI spécialisé dans le trafic d'œuvres d'art. Bien et mal, justice et injustice ; les différences sont nettes, et Will a passé sa carrière à en tracer les limites. Ses convictions lui ont peut-être coûté quelques relations, mais il ne souhaite pas faire de compromis sur ce qu'il sait être juste. Jusqu'à ce qu'il rencontre Amaury Vaughn.
À la tête de la fondation philanthropique familiale, Vaughn sait très bien qu'être riche et puissant lui permet d'obtenir presque tout ce qu'il veut. Et quand il rencontre l'adorablement grincheux et légèrement maladroit William Fox, il le veut plus qu'il n'a jamais voulu personne. Vaughn a l'habitude d'être désiré pour son nom et son argent, mais Will se fiche de l'un comme de l'autre.
Quand Vaughn recourt à de vieilles habitudes et tente d'impressionner Will en volant une peinture qu'il admire, leur lien naissant lui explose au visage. Vaughn doit réaliser que certaines choses ne peuvent pas être achetées ni volées. Mais un agent du FBI qui vit en suivant les règles et un voleur qui pense que les règles ne s'appliquent pas à lui peuvent-ils vraiment s'entendre ?
314 pages, Kindle Edition
First published July 11, 2017
118 people are currently reading
1456 people want to read
About the author
Roan Parrish
37 books2,389 followersRoan Parrish lives in Philadelphia, where she is gradually attempting to write love stories in every genre.
When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.
She is represented by Courtney Miller-Callihan of Handspun Literary Agency.
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When not writing, she can usually be found cutting her friends’ hair, meandering through whatever city she’s in while listening to torch songs and melodic death metal, or cooking overly elaborate meals. She loves bonfires, winter beaches, minor chord harmonies, and self-tattooing. One time she may or may not have baked a six-layer chocolate cake and then thrown it out the window in a fit of pique.
She is represented by Courtney Miller-Callihan of Handspun Literary Agency.
Roan's Newsletter
Roan's Facebook Group
Roan on Twitter
Roan on Instagram
Roan’s website
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 340 reviews
July 9, 2017
4 STARS
This book was nothing like I normally gravitate to. It has zero angst. It's not twisty and unpredictable. And it also doesn't have hot man abs on the cover. What? Don't you judge me. Like you haven't made those ill fated purchases because man abs lure you on. God. Judgy much? As a matter of fact, if I let my inner cover wh*re do the picking, she'd merrily click right past this book. And what a shame that would be. Because this is a classic case of not judging a book by the cover.
Heart Of The Steal was a super sweet romance between two men that couldn't be more opposite of each other. You have Will, an FBI agent for the art crimes division that wears poor fitting suits and couldn't flirt to save his life. Will is not a man that does one night stands but he's not exactly great at relationships either. After a disastrous end to his last one, he's not exactly swimming in suitors, but he's perfectly content with that too. Being forced to go to an art show that his twin sister and budding party planner dragged him to isn't his ideal way to plan the evening, but at least he can enjoy some art.
Amory Vaughn is the exact opposite of who would normally catch Will's attention. He's a rich philanthropist who's not unused to people only being interested in him for his money. So why does that man that blushes when Amory catches him staring and then runs away before talking to him completely steal his attention?
Can an uptight and proper FBI agent and flirtatious, rich, would be philanthropist thief have anything beyond sizzling hot chemistry in common?
Sparks fly immediately with these two. But when Will learns of Vaughn's art theft, he knows he can't cross that professional line with him. He may let him walk away from a deserved arrest, but he can't fall for his flirty smiles and smart mouth. Too bad the chemistry between them proves too strong to deny for even a stuffy FBI agent.
Once these two get past their...uhem...differences, the book takes a different turn. It goes from a slightly enemies to lovers vibe to just lovers. It shows two people slowly but surely falling in love as they get to know each other. Admittedly, this would normally bore me, but in the case of this book it was just adorably endearing. I simply loved these two together. I loved their individual quirks and I absolutely loved watching Vaughn fall deeper and deeper for Will. I loved watching Will lose more of his stuffiness in the presence of the enigmatic Vaughn. And I simply loved the sides of each other that they brought out when they were together. It was sweet, and swoony, and at times just ridiculously sexy.
My only quibble is Amory's description and comparison to Lucius Malfoy, which didn't inspire the sexiest of images. But after a while, I'll admit that it really suited Vaughn and I looked right past it. I loved the differences between him and Will, but not as much as I loved the two of them together.
There was no crazy drama, no angst, no twists or action. It was beautiful in it's simplicity, actually, and I adored every page of it.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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I wanted to overwhelm him, take him out of himself and everything he recognized and give him a mirror that would reflect him back to himself the way I saw him. Beautiful, brave, and scared.
This book was nothing like I normally gravitate to. It has zero angst. It's not twisty and unpredictable. And it also doesn't have hot man abs on the cover. What? Don't you judge me. Like you haven't made those ill fated purchases because man abs lure you on. God. Judgy much? As a matter of fact, if I let my inner cover wh*re do the picking, she'd merrily click right past this book. And what a shame that would be. Because this is a classic case of not judging a book by the cover.
Heart Of The Steal was a super sweet romance between two men that couldn't be more opposite of each other. You have Will, an FBI agent for the art crimes division that wears poor fitting suits and couldn't flirt to save his life. Will is not a man that does one night stands but he's not exactly great at relationships either. After a disastrous end to his last one, he's not exactly swimming in suitors, but he's perfectly content with that too. Being forced to go to an art show that his twin sister and budding party planner dragged him to isn't his ideal way to plan the evening, but at least he can enjoy some art.
Amory Vaughn is the exact opposite of who would normally catch Will's attention. He's a rich philanthropist who's not unused to people only being interested in him for his money. So why does that man that blushes when Amory catches him staring and then runs away before talking to him completely steal his attention?
Can an uptight and proper FBI agent and flirtatious, rich, would be philanthropist thief have anything beyond sizzling hot chemistry in common?
Sparks fly immediately with these two. But when Will learns of Vaughn's art theft, he knows he can't cross that professional line with him. He may let him walk away from a deserved arrest, but he can't fall for his flirty smiles and smart mouth. Too bad the chemistry between them proves too strong to deny for even a stuffy FBI agent.
I licked a stripe up the side of his throat.
“I’m not…begging…” Will gasped, and I smiled against his damp skin.
“No,” I conceded. “No. Not yet.”
Once these two get past their...uhem...differences, the book takes a different turn. It goes from a slightly enemies to lovers vibe to just lovers. It shows two people slowly but surely falling in love as they get to know each other. Admittedly, this would normally bore me, but in the case of this book it was just adorably endearing. I simply loved these two together. I loved their individual quirks and I absolutely loved watching Vaughn fall deeper and deeper for Will. I loved watching Will lose more of his stuffiness in the presence of the enigmatic Vaughn. And I simply loved the sides of each other that they brought out when they were together. It was sweet, and swoony, and at times just ridiculously sexy.
My only quibble is Amory's description and comparison to Lucius Malfoy, which didn't inspire the sexiest of images. But after a while, I'll admit that it really suited Vaughn and I looked right past it. I loved the differences between him and Will, but not as much as I loved the two of them together.
There was no crazy drama, no angst, no twists or action. It was beautiful in it's simplicity, actually, and I adored every page of it.
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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dnf-or-on-hold
May 15, 2020DNF at 35%. No rating.
February 5, 2019
1/9/19 - UPDATE! I'm changing my rating from 4.5 stars to 5 STARS. This book was EVEN BETTER the second time around. And I can now confidently say that Amory Vaughn is one of my top favorite characters ever!!
1/3/19 - Woke up this morning thinking about Amory Vaughn. So I guess a re-read is in order....good thing I purchased the audiobook for just this very thing!
****************************************
***4.5 Stars***
"Stealing your heart feels like the greatest theft I have ever perpetrated."
One of my favorite reads of 2017!
I don't even know what to say about this book! It was beautifully romantic...that's the best way I can sum it up.
This book is quiet. It's sweet. It's sexy. It's charming. It's pure swoony romance.
I loved William Fox like the rip of lightning through a sky I thought would always be dark. Like a shout echoed back to me from a great depth, rounded by distance and time, but still recognizable.
Amory Vaughn is a man born into wealth, but without family. He spends his time attending various functions and fundraisers with a smile on his face and charm oozing from his pores. But don't be fooled...Vaughn is also a total snob (and unbelievably lovable for it!).
Oh, did I mention that Vaughn also likes to steal artwork in his spare time??
Will is a rigid, rule book following FBI agent. He likes order and organization in his world. Things are black and white, right and wrong....legal and illegal.
The two meet at an event that Will's twin sister is catering. And it's lust at first sight. While Will is appreciating one of the paintings at the event, one thing leads to another and Vaughn ends up blowing Will's mind....literally and figuratively. That's certainly one way to make an introduction.
The next day, wouldn't you know it....the very painting that Will was admiring ends up at his front door with an invitation.
And from that moment forward we're taken on a beautiful journey of two men falling in love, reconfiguring what they thought they wanted, and opening themselves up to the possibility of something truly magical.
Will & Vaughn were fantastic together! I loved Vaughn's humorous observation of how organized and orderly Will likes things.
I bet he put things back in their proper place at the grocery store if he decided he didn't want to buy them, and always returned his shopping cart to the designated area. Hell, he probably returned other people's orphaned carts to the designated area.
It was a trait that confused him, frustrated him...and made him fall in love with Will a little bit more each day. Vaughn knew that it went against everything Will believed in to be with someone like him...but neither could stay away from the other. It was a game they played, a fire they danced around...a passion that fueled them. And they both knew it.
I don't know what he liked more - that I was a stickler for following the rules, or that he'd made me break them.
Vaughn was used to being used. He had prestige, connections, money. Those were the things people saw in him. He was a means for others to get what they wanted. But he didn't feel that with Will. Will didn't care about his wealth or his connections....he only saw Amory Vaughn...a man who was charming, adorably snobby, kind-hearted, lonely...but full of love.
"I'm not dating your money or your clout, Amory. I'm dating you...you make me happy. Just you."
Oh my darling Vaughn! Vaughn has stolen a little piece of my heart & has firmly landed himself on my list of favorite characters ♥ ♥ ♥
These two men were complete opposites, but fit perfectly together.
Oh, and I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the steam. Oh holy cops & robbers!! This was sexy! Huge shoutout to the haunted house and role-play!!
I slammed into him and he shook around me, crying out my name in a voice that was nothing like what I'd heard from him but would live in my mind whenever he spoke, a relic stored away like something precious, even if I was the only one who knew it was there.
Ok, I have to stop myself or I'll never stop gushing about this book.
What more can I say? If you find yourself, like me, struggling in the beginning...please don't give up! Seriously! Keep going...I don't know what it is, but it takes a bit for the magic to happen, for the spell to be cast. But once it has its hold on you....you'll be thankful you kept going.
This is a beautiful story with unforgettable and lovable characters, a romance that will make you swoon, and an ending that'll leave you with the biggest smile on your face!
Heart of the Steal has easily landed itself on my 2017 favorites list.
"You know that I would love you if you had nothing, don't you?"
"And you know that I would divest every dime if it meant I could keep you, don't you?"
Oh...and there's an adorable kitten here. Try and resist that.
Ok, ok I mean it now. I'm done.
Ok, here's my one, tiny quibble with the book. I have to admit this had a bit of a slow start for me. I was waiting for something to grab me...and I didn't even know what exactly? Just something to pull me into the story. But I don't know, something happened about a third of the way in and everything just clicked...and once that happened I was all in....100% invested and 100000000% IN LOVE!!
ARC received in exchange for an honest review
July 3, 2017
-4.5 stars-
Because English is not my mother tongue, I'm afraid that sometimes I let good writing go unappreciated. But here, there was no way to miss how AMAZING, beautiful and evocative the writing is. The quotes included in this review is only a small part, trust me.
This was a HUGE surprise. Not because I don't trust these authors to deliver a well wrtitten story, but because it was so not what I expected. Heart of the Steal is not your standard story with the alpha male/ grumpy FBI agent. And it's not a mystery/ suspense/ action story either. Heart of the Steal is relationship and character driven, diverse, original and sexy. It's a deeply romantic, quiet story, but one that doesn't lack any tension. No, the characters here are way too fascinating to allow things to get boring.
Amory Vaughn, you sexy, mild mannered bastard. He's so adorably snob. He won't attack even if you offend him, but with tiny strikes here and there, he'll put the final nail in your coffin. But Amory has also a huge heart. He'll do anything to take care of his people, even when he's not supposed to. If you 're loved by Amory Vaughn, rest assured, he'll move heaven and earth for you. Just don't get any spills on his favourite rug, ok?
William Fox is just the opposite of your stereotypical alpha male FBI agent. Will is competent but also socially awkward. He lives by his rules, he sees the good in people, and has absolutely no idea how to flirt. He also bakes cookies for Amory, because nobody ever did that for him.
At first, I found it weird that Amory was dreaming of hearts and flowers having only just met Will. But it quickly became clear that it was actually longing. Will was the first person who wasn't fazed by his money and power. This isn't an insta-love story. Will and Amory's relationship stretches over a somewhat long period, during which they go on dates, and then there's this awkward-cute admission that "we 're boyfriends!". And ultimately, the "I love you's". I heart eyed so bad during these scenes.
The conflict of this story (and there is strong one), comes from the characters themselves. Will is a man that lives by his ethics and follows the rules, while Amory is used to making things happen, using his name and money to ignore the rules. This is a constant threat, one they try to ignore by keeping jobs and pleasure seperate, until it blows up on their faces. They will have to compromise, and find a gray area.
There is a healthy dose of steam and a delicious sex scene while recreating an arrest, that started out fun, and ended up...not so fun. This scene was masterfully done.
Bottom line, I enjoyed this immensely, and I'm really hoping to read more by this author duo.
Recommended!
"I loved William Fox like the rip of lightning through a sky I thought would always be dark. Like a shout echoed back to me from a great depth, rounded by distance and time, but still recognizable. Yes, like the most perfect of perfect thefts. The ones I would never admit to, never acknowledge. The ones where something called to me where before there was only silence and emptiness and here, here, here was the thing that would shine on it with beauty."
Because English is not my mother tongue, I'm afraid that sometimes I let good writing go unappreciated. But here, there was no way to miss how AMAZING, beautiful and evocative the writing is. The quotes included in this review is only a small part, trust me.
This was a HUGE surprise. Not because I don't trust these authors to deliver a well wrtitten story, but because it was so not what I expected. Heart of the Steal is not your standard story with the alpha male/ grumpy FBI agent. And it's not a mystery/ suspense/ action story either. Heart of the Steal is relationship and character driven, diverse, original and sexy. It's a deeply romantic, quiet story, but one that doesn't lack any tension. No, the characters here are way too fascinating to allow things to get boring.
Amory Vaughn, you sexy, mild mannered bastard. He's so adorably snob. He won't attack even if you offend him, but with tiny strikes here and there, he'll put the final nail in your coffin. But Amory has also a huge heart. He'll do anything to take care of his people, even when he's not supposed to. If you 're loved by Amory Vaughn, rest assured, he'll move heaven and earth for you. Just don't get any spills on his favourite rug, ok?
William Fox is just the opposite of your stereotypical alpha male FBI agent. Will is competent but also socially awkward. He lives by his rules, he sees the good in people, and has absolutely no idea how to flirt. He also bakes cookies for Amory, because nobody ever did that for him.
At first, I found it weird that Amory was dreaming of hearts and flowers having only just met Will. But it quickly became clear that it was actually longing. Will was the first person who wasn't fazed by his money and power. This isn't an insta-love story. Will and Amory's relationship stretches over a somewhat long period, during which they go on dates, and then there's this awkward-cute admission that "we 're boyfriends!". And ultimately, the "I love you's". I heart eyed so bad during these scenes.
The conflict of this story (and there is strong one), comes from the characters themselves. Will is a man that lives by his ethics and follows the rules, while Amory is used to making things happen, using his name and money to ignore the rules. This is a constant threat, one they try to ignore by keeping jobs and pleasure seperate, until it blows up on their faces. They will have to compromise, and find a gray area.
There is a healthy dose of steam and a delicious sex scene while recreating an arrest, that started out fun, and ended up...not so fun. This scene was masterfully done.
Bottom line, I enjoyed this immensely, and I'm really hoping to read more by this author duo.
Recommended!
July 5, 2017
It actually pains me that I have to say, that this isn't one of my favorits by these authors. Maybe my expectation were a bit too high...since I have seriously loved every single book I have read by them.
First of all, it was really hard for me to get into the story. I just couldn't seem connect to the MC's. Nothing about them pulled me in....
I think one of the reasons I couldn't connect with Armory, was the way he was described. Now... I am normally not a big fan of long hair, but I can definitely look past that, if I have to. The problem is, that he has long grey braided hair and that just seemed so weird to me and made me think of my balding uncle, who only has a thin grey ponytail left...
This wasn't at all attractive to me :( His snobbish, stiff and proper demeanor made it even worse.
I had hoped I would like the other MC a bit more...and I did, but it was like and not love. Reason for this is the fact that William was supposed to be some badass FBI agent....at least that was what I hoped for. He wasn't so badass at all. To me he just didn't give off that whole FBI vibe that I love so much. I guess I figured their would have been a bit more action...
William and Armory meet at an art event that William's sister is catering. There is instant chemistry between the two of them, and after some serious eye sex across the room....Armory follows William to a more secluded area....
This is where things get really hot and heavy....
They are both extremely attracted to one another but when people start coming their way they know their fun time is over and they leave without switching info...
Now imagine William's surprise when the next day he is presented with a gift....a very expensive gift....a stolen painting. Adressed to him by non other than Amory. The gift also includes a personal invite to a wedding....
William, being an FBI agent for the art crimes department, knows he will have to go and arrest Amory... Yet this isn't what he does. Instead of arresting the man....they enjoy another sexy little one on one...
Now this also bothered me a little bit. This book is fairly heavy on the insta-love/lust, since they are all over each other after 5 minutes of meeting. I can get over that though, because it's all about the connection I think.
What I did have a hard time believing, was the fact that William threw all his morals out the window for a man he just met a second ago... But hey...I am not an FBI agent, so how would I know what they think or feel :P
These two try to make things work. They are both pretty opposite from one another but they had no problem matching in the bedroom :P That is one thing, that does need to be said....they certainly lit up the pages !!
Slowly they get to know each other beyond the psysical and start opening up to one another. I did like the banter between these two, which really made me laugh at times.
I think many will really enjoy this one and if you can look past the grey fox thing....well then you are in for a treat ;)
First of all, it was really hard for me to get into the story. I just couldn't seem connect to the MC's. Nothing about them pulled me in....
I think one of the reasons I couldn't connect with Armory, was the way he was described. Now... I am normally not a big fan of long hair, but I can definitely look past that, if I have to. The problem is, that he has long grey braided hair and that just seemed so weird to me and made me think of my balding uncle, who only has a thin grey ponytail left...
This wasn't at all attractive to me :( His snobbish, stiff and proper demeanor made it even worse.
I had hoped I would like the other MC a bit more...and I did, but it was like and not love. Reason for this is the fact that William was supposed to be some badass FBI agent....at least that was what I hoped for. He wasn't so badass at all. To me he just didn't give off that whole FBI vibe that I love so much. I guess I figured their would have been a bit more action...
William and Armory meet at an art event that William's sister is catering. There is instant chemistry between the two of them, and after some serious eye sex across the room....Armory follows William to a more secluded area....
This is where things get really hot and heavy....
They are both extremely attracted to one another but when people start coming their way they know their fun time is over and they leave without switching info...
Now imagine William's surprise when the next day he is presented with a gift....a very expensive gift....a stolen painting. Adressed to him by non other than Amory. The gift also includes a personal invite to a wedding....
William, being an FBI agent for the art crimes department, knows he will have to go and arrest Amory... Yet this isn't what he does. Instead of arresting the man....they enjoy another sexy little one on one...
Now this also bothered me a little bit. This book is fairly heavy on the insta-love/lust, since they are all over each other after 5 minutes of meeting. I can get over that though, because it's all about the connection I think.
What I did have a hard time believing, was the fact that William threw all his morals out the window for a man he just met a second ago... But hey...I am not an FBI agent, so how would I know what they think or feel :P
These two try to make things work. They are both pretty opposite from one another but they had no problem matching in the bedroom :P That is one thing, that does need to be said....they certainly lit up the pages !!
Slowly they get to know each other beyond the psysical and start opening up to one another. I did like the banter between these two, which really made me laugh at times.
I think many will really enjoy this one and if you can look past the grey fox thing....well then you are in for a treat ;)
My reviews are posted on Dirty Books Obsession
August 3, 2019
Audio – 5+++ stars Iggy Toma and Kirt Graves are an amazing narrating team
Story – 4.25 stars
FBI Agent meets a rich Art thief. Don’t expect this to be a crime drama themed story. This is more of an opposites attract than an enemies to lovers story, and it’s very relationship focused. I’ll admit that I’ve avoided this book because I thought it would bore me. I’m glad I decided to give it a chance, because I ended up loving it. It was sweet, funny and romantic. There’s some push/pull in the beginning, but once these guys decided to be together, its pretty much a done deal.
Story – 4.25 stars
FBI Agent meets a rich Art thief. Don’t expect this to be a crime drama themed story. This is more of an opposites attract than an enemies to lovers story, and it’s very relationship focused. I’ll admit that I’ve avoided this book because I thought it would bore me. I’m glad I decided to give it a chance, because I ended up loving it. It was sweet, funny and romantic. There’s some push/pull in the beginning, but once these guys decided to be together, its pretty much a done deal.
dnf
July 16, 2017DNF at 43%
I tried, I really did. But I guess it was a combination of
* Missed expectations -- I want thrill, suspense, SEDUCTION that doesn't necessarily translated to numerous sex scenes right of the bat *hmph*
* PURPLISH prose that dragged the story down (I figured it was probably due to my lack of chemistry towards one of the authors in this writing duo, because I seriously love the other author)
* Lack of badass-ery from the FBI agent, while the rich guy acted like, I dunno, a wannabe master of seduction that for me just ended up trying a bit too much(!)
* BORING LUNCHEONS!! Gosh, I want action, hello Thomas Crown Affair, please!!
I was ready to tear my hairs out of my scalp. So NOPE. This is definitely not my kind of book. I'm bailing out early. Sorry book (and sorry Ms. Gale, but I think I'll stick to either your solo books, or maybe a different writing partner *shrugs*)
I tried, I really did. But I guess it was a combination of
* Missed expectations -- I want thrill, suspense, SEDUCTION that doesn't necessarily translated to numerous sex scenes right of the bat *hmph*
* PURPLISH prose that dragged the story down (I figured it was probably due to my lack of chemistry towards one of the authors in this writing duo, because I seriously love the other author)
* Lack of badass-ery from the FBI agent, while the rich guy acted like, I dunno, a wannabe master of seduction that for me just ended up trying a bit too much(!)
* BORING LUNCHEONS!! Gosh, I want action, hello Thomas Crown Affair, please!!
I was ready to tear my hairs out of my scalp. So NOPE. This is definitely not my kind of book. I'm bailing out early. Sorry book (and sorry Ms. Gale, but I think I'll stick to either your solo books, or maybe a different writing partner *shrugs*)
July 18, 2017
4.5 stars
Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read Heart of Steal because I was not in the mood to read about an art thief, but I am so glad I did. The amazing writing sucked me into the story and it definitely was not what I expected.
William Fox works for the FBI’s Art Crimes Division. He enjoys art, which makes him good at his job. While at a party that his sister Charlie, a party planner, is working, he notices the gorgeous philanthropist, Amory Vaughn, who is a billionaire that is used to get everything he wants. Right now, he wants William Fox. But what happens when William finds out Vaughn secret.
I loved both William and Vaughn. They were total opposites but the way Vaughn was so devoted to William was so adorable and sweet. He just wanted William to be happy and made every effort to make sure of it.
The only minor complaint I have is that sometimes the description of almost everything took me out of the story, especially when they were eating. At one point, the dinner they were eating had jackfruit in it. Of course I starting thinking how do you even eat jackfruit? Is it sweet, does it have a lot of seeds, can you cook it….. Other than that, it was a really sweet story that I highly recommend.
Honestly, I wasn’t sure if I wanted to read Heart of Steal because I was not in the mood to read about an art thief, but I am so glad I did. The amazing writing sucked me into the story and it definitely was not what I expected.
William Fox works for the FBI’s Art Crimes Division. He enjoys art, which makes him good at his job. While at a party that his sister Charlie, a party planner, is working, he notices the gorgeous philanthropist, Amory Vaughn, who is a billionaire that is used to get everything he wants. Right now, he wants William Fox. But what happens when William finds out Vaughn secret.
I loved both William and Vaughn. They were total opposites but the way Vaughn was so devoted to William was so adorable and sweet. He just wanted William to be happy and made every effort to make sure of it.
The only minor complaint I have is that sometimes the description of almost everything took me out of the story, especially when they were eating. At one point, the dinner they were eating had jackfruit in it. Of course I starting thinking how do you even eat jackfruit? Is it sweet, does it have a lot of seeds, can you cook it….. Other than that, it was a really sweet story that I highly recommend.
July 19, 2017
3.5 Stars
I can't really pinpoint why, but I struggled with Heart of Steal, just a bit. The writing was good and I liked the MC's, but it took me a good third of the book for them to really click with me. After that, things did get better (and damn, was that the hottest picnic I've read about), but still it took me three times as long to read as it should have. It's a good story, though, and definitely well written. I just can't quite put my finger on what it is that I wasn't connecting with. But then the part of the story that I usually dread happened and *wham* I was a happy camper. The ending was well worth rounding up for. Loved the ending.
I can't really pinpoint why, but I struggled with Heart of Steal, just a bit. The writing was good and I liked the MC's, but it took me a good third of the book for them to really click with me. After that, things did get better (and damn, was that the hottest picnic I've read about), but still it took me three times as long to read as it should have. It's a good story, though, and definitely well written. I just can't quite put my finger on what it is that I wasn't connecting with. But then the part of the story that I usually dread happened and *wham* I was a happy camper. The ending was well worth rounding up for. Loved the ending.
July 3, 2017
~3.75 stars~
It took me a while to get into this story. It wasn't that the writing wasn't great - it was. It wasn't that the story wasn't interesting - it was. What wasn't happening, for me, was connecting with either MC.
The story begins with you thinking it's going to be a play on The Thomas Crown Affair. And that just isn't my thing. Then there's the cover. Holy Mary, Mother of God, and all that is holy - that is one helluva cover fail. Cringe. And Amory Vaughn, one of the MCs, has a long, silver braid. I'm thinking that some wouldn't find that to be hot. And by "some," I mean me. Vaughn also speaks with a stiffness that sounds so pretentious, I kept getting pulled out of the story.
It took me three days to get to 35%. And, peeps, I can do 35% in an hour on most days.
But then I got to 40% this morning, and it just clicked. I started relating to and understanding the MCs, which had been my biggest complaint thus far. And The Thomas Crown Affair it was not.
The story became completely relationship-focused. Combine that with the amazing writing that this duo is capable of, my now-felt connections, and the smokin hot sexy times......and the latter part of this story came together really well for me. I even felt the feelz at the climax.
And that damn kitten nearly did me in, no lie.
So I'm settling on 3.75 stars rounded up.
It took me a while to get into this story. It wasn't that the writing wasn't great - it was. It wasn't that the story wasn't interesting - it was. What wasn't happening, for me, was connecting with either MC.
The story begins with you thinking it's going to be a play on The Thomas Crown Affair. And that just isn't my thing. Then there's the cover. Holy Mary, Mother of God, and all that is holy - that is one helluva cover fail. Cringe. And Amory Vaughn, one of the MCs, has a long, silver braid. I'm thinking that some wouldn't find that to be hot. And by "some," I mean me. Vaughn also speaks with a stiffness that sounds so pretentious, I kept getting pulled out of the story.
It took me three days to get to 35%. And, peeps, I can do 35% in an hour on most days.
But then I got to 40% this morning, and it just clicked. I started relating to and understanding the MCs, which had been my biggest complaint thus far. And The Thomas Crown Affair it was not.
The story became completely relationship-focused. Combine that with the amazing writing that this duo is capable of, my now-felt connections, and the smokin hot sexy times......and the latter part of this story came together really well for me. I even felt the feelz at the climax.
And that damn kitten nearly did me in, no lie.
So I'm settling on 3.75 stars rounded up.
November 29, 2021
Even though this one was low angst and a lot fluffier than what I was expecting it to be, there is no doubt I had fun reading it. But, if you are not one for insta-attractions and half the book being character-driven/relationship driven you might wanna think before picking this one.
William meets Amory Vaughn at a gala, had a delightful encounter than was shocked to receive an expensive stolen painting as a gift from Amory the next morning. Shocked because Will is an FBI agent and Amory Vaughn is….."Delightful, infuriating, and impossible.”
Sorry, let's go with the extended gushing 😝😝…
Part-time billionaire philanthropist ✅
An occasional art thief ✅
Looks like Lucious Malfoy ✅
Pursues William relentlessly ✅
Has a screwed moral compass ✅
Likes to manipulate situations ✅
And might act sometimes like a snob. ✅
Nevertheless a perfect book boyfriend….and the reason why this book is not a 3.5 🌟 but 4 dazzling 🌟
Oh!! And I am happy that this book broke some kind of monotonous cycle of me rereading every possible book I can for the last two months.😁😁
William meets Amory Vaughn at a gala, had a delightful encounter than was shocked to receive an expensive stolen painting as a gift from Amory the next morning. Shocked because Will is an FBI agent and Amory Vaughn is….."Delightful, infuriating, and impossible.”
Sorry, let's go with the extended gushing 😝😝…
Part-time billionaire philanthropist ✅
An occasional art thief ✅
Looks like Lucious Malfoy ✅
Pursues William relentlessly ✅
Has a screwed moral compass ✅
Likes to manipulate situations ✅
And might act sometimes like a snob. ✅
Nevertheless a perfect book boyfriend….and the reason why this book is not a 3.5 🌟 but 4 dazzling 🌟
Oh!! And I am happy that this book broke some kind of monotonous cycle of me rereading every possible book I can for the last two months.😁😁
January 12, 2020
This has been on my tbr (and my kindle) since 2017 and I was so annoyed that I was getting DNF urges after only 8%. So annoyed that I stubbornly pushed on.
What I thought was going to be some cops-and-robbers hate-to-love romance was, in fact, not that. But also I just struggled to connect to the characters, wasn't sold on the zero to sixty pace of the relationship, and.. yeah. And while I won't say it paid off with some grand turn around in attitude, there were things in the second half that I liked much more than the first half -- which, I guess isn't that hard. Two moments even had me outright lol.
But that doesn't change the fact that this is easily my least favourite story from either (both?) of these two authors. It makes me sad. But I'm happier that I didn't throw in the towel, despite it all, even if none of it really did much for me.
What I thought was going to be some cops-and-robbers hate-to-love romance was, in fact, not that. But also I just struggled to connect to the characters, wasn't sold on the zero to sixty pace of the relationship, and.. yeah. And while I won't say it paid off with some grand turn around in attitude, there were things in the second half that I liked much more than the first half -- which, I guess isn't that hard. Two moments even had me outright lol.
But that doesn't change the fact that this is easily my least favourite story from either (both?) of these two authors. It makes me sad. But I'm happier that I didn't throw in the towel, despite it all, even if none of it really did much for me.
July 10, 2017
Heart of the Steal is an opposites attract romance that's fast paced, humorous, and completely entertaining.
Told from both FBI agent William Fox and Philanthropist and part-time art thief Amory Vaughn's perspective the reader gets a glimpse into how different, and yet similar, both men are.
While Will is buttoned up and pretty rigid in his own way, I loved how his attraction and feelings for Vaughn mean breaking his own rules.
Vaughn is someone who doesn't always think rules apply to him, and stealing has provided a super rush in the past, but he's a bit more rigid, probably due to his upbringing, than Will and yet they complement each other beautifully and make a great pair.
I loved the backdrop of the art world. I loved how Vaughn was always trying to do things to make Will comfortable or to show him his affection. It made my heart melt. Frankly, I loved Amory Vaughn. Though a little stuffy, self-centered at times, and mega rich, he really wasn't a huge snob, but rather a sophisticated, charming, mischievous rapscallion...and so completely in love with Will.
I liked the way Parrish and Gale developed the relationship between the characters - starting with that instant attraction (and a super hot scene in semi-public) and progressed nicely.
I'm a fan of both author's individual work, and their collaboration certainly proves they work well together. I hope to see another collab from them in the future.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Heart of the Steal provided by author in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
Told from both FBI agent William Fox and Philanthropist and part-time art thief Amory Vaughn's perspective the reader gets a glimpse into how different, and yet similar, both men are.
While Will is buttoned up and pretty rigid in his own way, I loved how his attraction and feelings for Vaughn mean breaking his own rules.
Vaughn is someone who doesn't always think rules apply to him, and stealing has provided a super rush in the past, but he's a bit more rigid, probably due to his upbringing, than Will and yet they complement each other beautifully and make a great pair.
I loved the backdrop of the art world. I loved how Vaughn was always trying to do things to make Will comfortable or to show him his affection. It made my heart melt. Frankly, I loved Amory Vaughn. Though a little stuffy, self-centered at times, and mega rich, he really wasn't a huge snob, but rather a sophisticated, charming, mischievous rapscallion...and so completely in love with Will.
I liked the way Parrish and Gale developed the relationship between the characters - starting with that instant attraction (and a super hot scene in semi-public) and progressed nicely.
I'm a fan of both author's individual work, and their collaboration certainly proves they work well together. I hope to see another collab from them in the future.
Advanced Review Galley copy of Heart of the Steal provided by author in exchange of an honest review.
This review has been cross-posted at Gay Book Reviews.
August 20, 2017
Saddly, I can't say that I enjoyed this book.
My main issue was that I couldn't connect with the characters. I didn't even like one of them. My friend Vir had an issue with Will. Mine was with Amory. He was arrogant, self-centered and a snob. He was very wealthy and used to nice and expensive things so I could understand him having some limits. But when the chapter was told by his point of view he criticized everything and everyone. He was so sarcastic and dismissal that I couldn't wait for it to be over.
He wasn't satisfied by anything that was bellow his standards and even though the authors tried to portay him as someone who made allowances in order to be with his less wealthy lover, he didn't come across like that at all. Reading his thoughts made me dislike him a lot. He frustated me and after a while I stopped trying to find things to excuse his behavior because I simply didn't care about him anymore.
There was a kitten near the end and the whole thing with how they ended up keeping it and the scene in the storm seemed a bit silly to me. Like manufactured drama and a need to provoke emotions from the reader.
Will's morals were objectionable at the beginning. He covered a guy he didn't even know just because he found him hot (don't even get me started on the Malfoy comparisson and how many times it was mentioned).
I finished the book because I don't like DNF-ing them but I didn't like it. Of course I've read reviews from readers who loved it so don't stay in my opinion. If you like the blurb read a few reviews and decide if this is for you. I'm just stating my opinion here and I don't want to discourage anyone who wants to read this.
I don't like giving bad reviews to books so I'm going to keep this relatively short. This book wasn't for me at all, not even a little bit, but it could be great for someone else. Not all of us see a book the same way, and how great is that?!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
My main issue was that I couldn't connect with the characters. I didn't even like one of them. My friend Vir had an issue with Will. Mine was with Amory. He was arrogant, self-centered and a snob. He was very wealthy and used to nice and expensive things so I could understand him having some limits. But when the chapter was told by his point of view he criticized everything and everyone. He was so sarcastic and dismissal that I couldn't wait for it to be over.
He wasn't satisfied by anything that was bellow his standards and even though the authors tried to portay him as someone who made allowances in order to be with his less wealthy lover, he didn't come across like that at all. Reading his thoughts made me dislike him a lot. He frustated me and after a while I stopped trying to find things to excuse his behavior because I simply didn't care about him anymore.
There was a kitten near the end and the whole thing with how they ended up keeping it and the scene in the storm seemed a bit silly to me. Like manufactured drama and a need to provoke emotions from the reader.
Will's morals were objectionable at the beginning. He covered a guy he didn't even know just because he found him hot (don't even get me started on the Malfoy comparisson and how many times it was mentioned).
I finished the book because I don't like DNF-ing them but I didn't like it. Of course I've read reviews from readers who loved it so don't stay in my opinion. If you like the blurb read a few reviews and decide if this is for you. I'm just stating my opinion here and I don't want to discourage anyone who wants to read this.
I don't like giving bad reviews to books so I'm going to keep this relatively short. This book wasn't for me at all, not even a little bit, but it could be great for someone else. Not all of us see a book the same way, and how great is that?!
*An ARC of this book was kindly provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*
dnf
July 12, 2017DNF at 33%.
The blurb reminded me of M. Chandler's The Morning Star, which I loved, so I guess I had too high expectations from this book.
I'm somewhat familiar with Avon Gale's writing after reading most of her books, but I couldn't see her clean, direct, smooth writing here. Each PoV was similar; long, purple prose that weighted the narrative down.
The MCs were older men, but they acted like immature ones. Blow job at first meeting in someone's gallery? Another blow job at second meeting when the FBI agent should've been arresting the philanthropist/art thief? WTF?!
The blurb reminded me of M. Chandler's The Morning Star, which I loved, so I guess I had too high expectations from this book.
I'm somewhat familiar with Avon Gale's writing after reading most of her books, but I couldn't see her clean, direct, smooth writing here. Each PoV was similar; long, purple prose that weighted the narrative down.
The MCs were older men, but they acted like immature ones. Blow job at first meeting in someone's gallery? Another blow job at second meeting when the FBI agent should've been arresting the philanthropist/art thief? WTF?!
October 17, 2018
Update for audio.
I loved this! It did take a bit to get started, but once it got there it was wonderful. I do think that the blurb may give the wrong impression. This is a quiet book about two men with very different views of life finding their way to understanding each other. Perhaps the blurb creates an expectation of *art theft* and *chasing bad guys* and other such things, but there is very little of that at all, and that is great.
I would definitely re-read, when I'm in the mood for a sweet, quiet read about people who have so little in common, yet still manage to find their way together.
Audio: I never thought I'd say this, but Iggy Toma was the weaker narrator for me on this. Kirt Graves kept Amory's accent consistently, and did it better. Sadly the more emotional chapters were done by Toma. It was still good, but this didn't need two narrators (something else I never thought I'd say) and I would have given it five stars if Graves had been the sole narrator. I will be looking for more of Graves' work.
I loved this! It did take a bit to get started, but once it got there it was wonderful. I do think that the blurb may give the wrong impression. This is a quiet book about two men with very different views of life finding their way to understanding each other. Perhaps the blurb creates an expectation of *art theft* and *chasing bad guys* and other such things, but there is very little of that at all, and that is great.
I would definitely re-read, when I'm in the mood for a sweet, quiet read about people who have so little in common, yet still manage to find their way together.
Audio: I never thought I'd say this, but Iggy Toma was the weaker narrator for me on this. Kirt Graves kept Amory's accent consistently, and did it better. Sadly the more emotional chapters were done by Toma. It was still good, but this didn't need two narrators (something else I never thought I'd say) and I would have given it five stars if Graves had been the sole narrator. I will be looking for more of Graves' work.
July 16, 2017
*ARC received via A Novel Take PR as part of blog tour*
4.5 ★
Well, well, is this delightful or what!
I've been a fan of Avon since the start of her Scoring Chances series and I'm a new fan of Roan. So to read this was a real treat
Here we have Amory, a trust fund baby with a heart of gold. He's also an art thief. William is an FBI agent for the Art Crime Division. Put them together and you get one scrumptious mix.
You get a bit of Thomas Crown Affair feel in the beginning (even though Amory doesn't think so... hehe) but the focus here really is how the relationship built between these 2. How Amory decided to get into William's radar, past the initial sexy interlude, somewhat complicated matters. How do you move things forward then when ethics are intermingled with feelings? And does ethics really factor in? Hmmm... When does compromise stop being a compromise?
William is as straight shooter as straight shooter goes. On a personal level, I can relate with him well; which ironically enough is why I think he frustrated me to a degree. It's like looking on a mirror somewhat.
Amory is just one divine creature. There is something in the formality of his words that's beyond endearing. (Call me crazy but I almost wanted to put a British accent on him... hehe). That kind of confidence afforded byf his status was apparent right from the start and doubt you'll find anything grating about it. It just is what it is. The vulnerability to his thoughts and actions are heartfelt.
These 2 together, I have to say...
They're sarcastic, they're funny, they're sweet, they're caring, they're sincere, they're witty...
And their smexy times...
!!!
Don't ask my why but I dove in thinking this will be some kind of romantic suspense. Instead, to my pleasant surprise, it ended up being more emotional than I anticipated. The dual POV provided insight to these 2 very different people from different strata of society, a fact that didn't matter in the end when it comes to matters of the heart.
What mattered is that each one learnt and grew individually and as a couple. That each one learnt the value of other person. That each one learnt what truly matters.
4.5 ★
Well, well, is this delightful or what!
I've been a fan of Avon since the start of her Scoring Chances series and I'm a new fan of Roan. So to read this was a real treat
Here we have Amory, a trust fund baby with a heart of gold. He's also an art thief. William is an FBI agent for the Art Crime Division. Put them together and you get one scrumptious mix.
You get a bit of Thomas Crown Affair feel in the beginning (even though Amory doesn't think so... hehe) but the focus here really is how the relationship built between these 2. How Amory decided to get into William's radar, past the initial sexy interlude, somewhat complicated matters. How do you move things forward then when ethics are intermingled with feelings? And does ethics really factor in? Hmmm... When does compromise stop being a compromise?
William is as straight shooter as straight shooter goes. On a personal level, I can relate with him well; which ironically enough is why I think he frustrated me to a degree. It's like looking on a mirror somewhat.
Amory is just one divine creature. There is something in the formality of his words that's beyond endearing. (Call me crazy but I almost wanted to put a British accent on him... hehe). That kind of confidence afforded byf his status was apparent right from the start and doubt you'll find anything grating about it. It just is what it is. The vulnerability to his thoughts and actions are heartfelt.
These 2 together, I have to say...
They're sarcastic, they're funny, they're sweet, they're caring, they're sincere, they're witty...
And their smexy times...
!!!
Don't ask my why but I dove in thinking this will be some kind of romantic suspense. Instead, to my pleasant surprise, it ended up being more emotional than I anticipated. The dual POV provided insight to these 2 very different people from different strata of society, a fact that didn't matter in the end when it comes to matters of the heart.
What mattered is that each one learnt and grew individually and as a couple. That each one learnt the value of other person. That each one learnt what truly matters.
July 16, 2017
*** 3.5 Stars ***
I liked this one in the moment, but ultimately it wasn't enough of any one thing for me to think that it'll be all that memorable in the long run.
Both authors individually have produced MUCH better stories, but I would totally be willing to read another by this duo.
I liked this one in the moment, but ultimately it wasn't enough of any one thing for me to think that it'll be all that memorable in the long run.
Both authors individually have produced MUCH better stories, but I would totally be willing to read another by this duo.
July 22, 2017
That was a sweet read - the clash of values and the connection of hearts ❤️
June 4, 2024
Review from 2019
I've given this an A for narration and a B for content at AudioGals, so that's 4.5 stars
Heart of the Steal is the first (and so far, only) collaboration between popular m/m romance authors Avon Gale and Roan Parrish. I confess that I haven’t yet read or listened to anything by either author, but this sounded interesting, and when it popped up at Audible with the names of two experienced narrators attached, I decided to give it a whirl. The synopsis led me to think the story would be some sort of light-hearted cat-and-mouse caper featuring a billionaire philanthropist who succumbs to the occasional instance of light fingers, and a starchy FBI art crimes specialist. But while that dichotomy is the catalyst for the romance, the bulk of the novel consists basically of a well-put together love story between opposites, two men from very different worlds and social backgrounds who struggle to work out how – and even if – they can fit into each other’s lives. Maybe if I’d read the book I might have been a little disappointed, but Kirt Graves and Iggy Toma deliver such fabulously engaging performances that I was happy to just go with the flow and let them take me wherever they – and the story – wanted me to go!
Will Fox isn’t exactly overjoyed at being dragged to a party by his twin sister, Charlotte. It’s the end of a long week, he’s tired, and making small talk with the super-rich isn’t his idea of a fun evening, but Charlotte’s event planning company has catered the party so he goes along to support her. Part way through the evening, she points out new arrival Amory Vaughn, one of the wealthiest men in the country and head of the Vaughn Foundation, a philanthropic organisation that administers and contributes to a number of charities. Vaughn is gorgeous – striking, well-dressed, urbanely charming, with a southern drawl that was pure old money – and Will can’t take his eyes off him, embarrassed when he’s caught staring and completely unable to return the flirtatious wink Vaughn sends his way. When Vaughn starts making his way towards him, Will bolts; he’s terrible at flirting and has no wish to make an idiot of himself, so he heads downstairs to take in the host’s art collection – but isn’t alone for long. Vaughn makes clear his interest very quickly, and Will is helpless to resist the pull of the attraction that’s been zinging between them ever since they made eye-contact. It’s the hottest sexual encounter of his life – and likely to be the only one they’ll ever share.
The next morning, Will finds a large package propped up against the wall outside his apartment – and is horrified to discover that it contains the painting that he and Vaughn had been admiring the night before, together with an invitation to Vaughn’s home the following Saturday. Will is shocked, angry… and disappointed to discover that the man with whom he’d felt such an intense connection is a thief. And worse, Will is going to have to arrest him.
Thoroughly smitten with the handsome man in the ill-fitting suit he’d met at that party, Amory Vaughn decided a grand gesture would be a good way to get his attention. He’s surprised at the degree of interest he’s taking in William Fox; it’s been a long time since he was so strongly attracted to anyone, but that only serves to ramp up Vaughn’s anticipation as he looks for William among the crowd gathered at his home to celebrate his best friend’s wedding. Just as he’s pretty much given up hope, Amory spots him and is initially pleased when William (Amory likes to think of him as William rather than Will) insists they find somewhere quiet to talk… but not so much when the other man calls Amory out on the theft. The problem – for Will, anyway – in all this is that Amory doesn’t seem at all fazed by this turn of events, and what is supposed to be an impersonal confrontation ends with the pair of them extremely turned-on and taking things to their natural conclusion. On the desk. And against the wall. It’s a terrible idea and Will knows it… but he can’t resist. No-one has ever affected him the way Amory Vaughn does – but how on earth can he possibly reconcile his job as an FBI agent with the overwhelming attraction he feels towards a man who clearly has such different moral standards?
The obvious dichotomy between the occasional thief and the FBI agent is a symptom of a far more serious issue lying in the way of a happy ending for these two, one born of their very different circumstances and outlooks. Amory was born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth, and never wanted for anything – except real companionship and affection as a child, and, as he grew older, people around him who wanted him for himself rather than what he could do for them. He is, quite frankly, a snob, although the authors mitigate that quality by making him charmingly endearing and unfailingly generous – and poking very gentle fun at him through Will’s PoV. The trouble is that he fails to see that what he thinks of as generosity is often akin to manipulation. Amory wants Will to be happy and to make his life easier, so he does things without thinking about how they will look to Will or how they might make him feel, and eventually goes farther than Will is prepared to accept.
But the issues aren’t all Vaughn’s. Will struggles with his attraction to him, seeing the good in him but sometimes deliberately clinging to the things that show his cluelessness about how the other half lives. Will is smart and insightful, but he has to learn that his – perhaps – naïve view of life as starkly black and white is as flawed as Amory’s view of it as being his to manipulate as he sees fit.
The chemistry between the leads is fabulous and the romance is full of humour, affection and unexpected moments of sweetness; Amory is a romantic at heart and takes great delight in simply making Will smile. The sex scenes are hot – Amory talks like a prince, but unleashes the dirty talk in the bedroom ;) – but the depth of affection between the two men shines through regardless of what they’re doing, and it was easy to believe in a future for them, in spite of their very different backgrounds.
Even though I listen to a fair amount of m/m books, I haven’t yet listened to either narrator, which is weird because they’ve both recorded in the genre quite extensively. After this though, I’ll definitely be seeking out more of their work because they were both superb. Kirt Graves narrates the chapters told from Will’s PoV and Iggy Toma those from Vaughn’s, and I was really impressed by the consistency they both achieved when performing dialogue by the other character (i.e. Mr. Graves’ portrayal of Vaughn and Mr. Toma’s of Will). I commented to my fellow Gals during our Currently Playing chat that week that both their interpretations of Vaughn were so good and their delivery and accent so well co-ordinated, that I occasionally forgot which one of them was speaking! I described Vaughn’s southern accent as a “full on Scarlett O’Hara” – he’s the perfect Southern Gentleman, and I loved his smooth, sexy drawl as performed by both narrators. Pacing and enunciation are excellent, and both performers really nailed the emotional nuances of the story, especially in those moments we get to hear Vaughn’s vulnerability and Will’s awkwardness and uncertainty. Their female voices are good, too, as are all their characterisations of the various secondary characters and differentiation between them.
Heart of the Steal might not have been what I was expecting, but it was a charming and entertaining listen nonetheless, and one I’d recommend it to anyone in the mood for a tender, sweet though hot romance between two likeable leads. Terrific performances by Kirt Graves and Iggy Toma undoubtedly enhanced my overall enjoyment; this one gets a thumbs-up from me.
I've given this an A for narration and a B for content at AudioGals, so that's 4.5 stars
Heart of the Steal is the first (and so far, only) collaboration between popular m/m romance authors Avon Gale and Roan Parrish. I confess that I haven’t yet read or listened to anything by either author, but this sounded interesting, and when it popped up at Audible with the names of two experienced narrators attached, I decided to give it a whirl. The synopsis led me to think the story would be some sort of light-hearted cat-and-mouse caper featuring a billionaire philanthropist who succumbs to the occasional instance of light fingers, and a starchy FBI art crimes specialist. But while that dichotomy is the catalyst for the romance, the bulk of the novel consists basically of a well-put together love story between opposites, two men from very different worlds and social backgrounds who struggle to work out how – and even if – they can fit into each other’s lives. Maybe if I’d read the book I might have been a little disappointed, but Kirt Graves and Iggy Toma deliver such fabulously engaging performances that I was happy to just go with the flow and let them take me wherever they – and the story – wanted me to go!
Will Fox isn’t exactly overjoyed at being dragged to a party by his twin sister, Charlotte. It’s the end of a long week, he’s tired, and making small talk with the super-rich isn’t his idea of a fun evening, but Charlotte’s event planning company has catered the party so he goes along to support her. Part way through the evening, she points out new arrival Amory Vaughn, one of the wealthiest men in the country and head of the Vaughn Foundation, a philanthropic organisation that administers and contributes to a number of charities. Vaughn is gorgeous – striking, well-dressed, urbanely charming, with a southern drawl that was pure old money – and Will can’t take his eyes off him, embarrassed when he’s caught staring and completely unable to return the flirtatious wink Vaughn sends his way. When Vaughn starts making his way towards him, Will bolts; he’s terrible at flirting and has no wish to make an idiot of himself, so he heads downstairs to take in the host’s art collection – but isn’t alone for long. Vaughn makes clear his interest very quickly, and Will is helpless to resist the pull of the attraction that’s been zinging between them ever since they made eye-contact. It’s the hottest sexual encounter of his life – and likely to be the only one they’ll ever share.
The next morning, Will finds a large package propped up against the wall outside his apartment – and is horrified to discover that it contains the painting that he and Vaughn had been admiring the night before, together with an invitation to Vaughn’s home the following Saturday. Will is shocked, angry… and disappointed to discover that the man with whom he’d felt such an intense connection is a thief. And worse, Will is going to have to arrest him.
Thoroughly smitten with the handsome man in the ill-fitting suit he’d met at that party, Amory Vaughn decided a grand gesture would be a good way to get his attention. He’s surprised at the degree of interest he’s taking in William Fox; it’s been a long time since he was so strongly attracted to anyone, but that only serves to ramp up Vaughn’s anticipation as he looks for William among the crowd gathered at his home to celebrate his best friend’s wedding. Just as he’s pretty much given up hope, Amory spots him and is initially pleased when William (Amory likes to think of him as William rather than Will) insists they find somewhere quiet to talk… but not so much when the other man calls Amory out on the theft. The problem – for Will, anyway – in all this is that Amory doesn’t seem at all fazed by this turn of events, and what is supposed to be an impersonal confrontation ends with the pair of them extremely turned-on and taking things to their natural conclusion. On the desk. And against the wall. It’s a terrible idea and Will knows it… but he can’t resist. No-one has ever affected him the way Amory Vaughn does – but how on earth can he possibly reconcile his job as an FBI agent with the overwhelming attraction he feels towards a man who clearly has such different moral standards?
The obvious dichotomy between the occasional thief and the FBI agent is a symptom of a far more serious issue lying in the way of a happy ending for these two, one born of their very different circumstances and outlooks. Amory was born with the proverbial silver spoon in his mouth, and never wanted for anything – except real companionship and affection as a child, and, as he grew older, people around him who wanted him for himself rather than what he could do for them. He is, quite frankly, a snob, although the authors mitigate that quality by making him charmingly endearing and unfailingly generous – and poking very gentle fun at him through Will’s PoV. The trouble is that he fails to see that what he thinks of as generosity is often akin to manipulation. Amory wants Will to be happy and to make his life easier, so he does things without thinking about how they will look to Will or how they might make him feel, and eventually goes farther than Will is prepared to accept.
But the issues aren’t all Vaughn’s. Will struggles with his attraction to him, seeing the good in him but sometimes deliberately clinging to the things that show his cluelessness about how the other half lives. Will is smart and insightful, but he has to learn that his – perhaps – naïve view of life as starkly black and white is as flawed as Amory’s view of it as being his to manipulate as he sees fit.
The chemistry between the leads is fabulous and the romance is full of humour, affection and unexpected moments of sweetness; Amory is a romantic at heart and takes great delight in simply making Will smile. The sex scenes are hot – Amory talks like a prince, but unleashes the dirty talk in the bedroom ;) – but the depth of affection between the two men shines through regardless of what they’re doing, and it was easy to believe in a future for them, in spite of their very different backgrounds.
Even though I listen to a fair amount of m/m books, I haven’t yet listened to either narrator, which is weird because they’ve both recorded in the genre quite extensively. After this though, I’ll definitely be seeking out more of their work because they were both superb. Kirt Graves narrates the chapters told from Will’s PoV and Iggy Toma those from Vaughn’s, and I was really impressed by the consistency they both achieved when performing dialogue by the other character (i.e. Mr. Graves’ portrayal of Vaughn and Mr. Toma’s of Will). I commented to my fellow Gals during our Currently Playing chat that week that both their interpretations of Vaughn were so good and their delivery and accent so well co-ordinated, that I occasionally forgot which one of them was speaking! I described Vaughn’s southern accent as a “full on Scarlett O’Hara” – he’s the perfect Southern Gentleman, and I loved his smooth, sexy drawl as performed by both narrators. Pacing and enunciation are excellent, and both performers really nailed the emotional nuances of the story, especially in those moments we get to hear Vaughn’s vulnerability and Will’s awkwardness and uncertainty. Their female voices are good, too, as are all their characterisations of the various secondary characters and differentiation between them.
Heart of the Steal might not have been what I was expecting, but it was a charming and entertaining listen nonetheless, and one I’d recommend it to anyone in the mood for a tender, sweet though hot romance between two likeable leads. Terrific performances by Kirt Graves and Iggy Toma undoubtedly enhanced my overall enjoyment; this one gets a thumbs-up from me.
July 25, 2017
The thing about this book is, it's not bad but it's not amazing and I guess I expected more from this collaboration.
I enjoyed the book, it's good afternoon read but it's nothing over the top good.
There were things that I liked, there were things that I didn't particularly loved. So yeah. OK book.
I enjoyed the book, it's good afternoon read but it's nothing over the top good.
There were things that I liked, there were things that I didn't particularly loved. So yeah. OK book.
October 29, 2017
What a sexy, subversive story. William Fox is a 34-year-old FBI agent who specializes in art crimes. Imagine, an FBI agent who majored in art history (and thereby pissed off his policeman father)! His twin sister Charlotte has built her own party planning business, born from a love of tinkering in the kitchen with her twin brother. One evening, at a fancy party organized by his sister, Will meets Amory Vaughn, forty-two, the six-foot-something scion of a hugely rich Virginia family. Amory wears custom-made suits and shoulder-length tow-colored hair.
Will, from a solid middle-class family, has never encountered anyone like Amory. Gale and Parrish plunge us right into the erotic connection between these two men, and then set the hook with Amory’s unorthodox (and illegal) follow-up with Agent Fox. You see, Vaughn doesn’t know that Will is a federal agent; and Will doesn’t know that Vaughn has a very different sense of what the rules are.
What makes this book so good for me is that Amory Vaughn is handled with great skill. Rich and rebellious, utterly spoiled and yet simultaneously driven by his liberal instincts of fairness and justice, Vaughn could have been a mess in less skilled hands. He is bisexual to Will’s gold-star-gay, another indication that his boundaries are not the same. He is worldly (or, as Will’s mother says at one point: cosmopolitan) in ways foreign to Will. He could be a complete s.o.b., and yet he isn’t—at least not intentionally. It is through the careless use of his rich-man’s superpowers that Amory offends.
Will Fox is less difficult, and yet his characters could have been ruined just as badly by stereotyping. Will and his sister had a happy, normal childhood in suburbia. They never wanted for anything essential, but were taught by example to avoid extravagance and pretension. Fox could be plodding and humorless (after all, he IS an FBI agent), but the authors choose to make him smart and insightful, even as he clings to the black-and-white clarity of the law as he was raised to see it.
Gale and Parrish nicely avoid unnecessary details that other authors use to create more “authentic” settings (which generally only succeed in setting up artificial backdrops that overshadow the characters}. Vaughn’s family estate in Falls Church becomes an important stage on which the two men’s relationship evolves; but the authors describe it in such a way as to shed light on Vaughn’s to-the-manner-born behavior.
Similarly, the sometimes-heavy-handed use of brand-names by other authors is more astutely tuned here. Vaughn is appalled by William’s bad suits, not because they make William any less appealing, but simply because Amory is a spoiled rich man. There’s a wonderful scene involving an Ermenegildo Zegna suit (one that I could only dream of owning). While this whole scene underscores Amory’s wildly different view of the world, it also makes it clear that his feelings for Will are true. We still groan slightly at what a spoiled douche Amory is (really? A $2000 suit is only “adequate”?); but we are compelled to see the love and generosity behind the actions. Amory Vaughn is what he is, warts and all.
Will Fox, by contrast, tilts toward the rigidly moralistic, horrified by his own compulsive attraction to Vaughn’s bad-boy aristocrat. He sees all the good in Vaughn, but he clings almost desperately to the things that show Vaughn’s disregard for “little people’s” rules. Will wants to dismiss Vaughn because of his wealth and his careless power; but he is too smart to do that, and it causes him no end of grief.
The sexy parts of this book are also really well done, something I appreciate more with every m/m book I read. God, I have gotten intolerant of dumbly written pro-forma sex scenes. Gale and Parrish don’t do that. Every intimate physical moment between these two men matters, moves their story forward. It is the complicated meshing of heart, mind and body that fuses Amory and Will together, and threatens them at every turn.
Only as I wrote this review did I notice that this is apparently the first of a series. Ooh.
Will, from a solid middle-class family, has never encountered anyone like Amory. Gale and Parrish plunge us right into the erotic connection between these two men, and then set the hook with Amory’s unorthodox (and illegal) follow-up with Agent Fox. You see, Vaughn doesn’t know that Will is a federal agent; and Will doesn’t know that Vaughn has a very different sense of what the rules are.
What makes this book so good for me is that Amory Vaughn is handled with great skill. Rich and rebellious, utterly spoiled and yet simultaneously driven by his liberal instincts of fairness and justice, Vaughn could have been a mess in less skilled hands. He is bisexual to Will’s gold-star-gay, another indication that his boundaries are not the same. He is worldly (or, as Will’s mother says at one point: cosmopolitan) in ways foreign to Will. He could be a complete s.o.b., and yet he isn’t—at least not intentionally. It is through the careless use of his rich-man’s superpowers that Amory offends.
Will Fox is less difficult, and yet his characters could have been ruined just as badly by stereotyping. Will and his sister had a happy, normal childhood in suburbia. They never wanted for anything essential, but were taught by example to avoid extravagance and pretension. Fox could be plodding and humorless (after all, he IS an FBI agent), but the authors choose to make him smart and insightful, even as he clings to the black-and-white clarity of the law as he was raised to see it.
Gale and Parrish nicely avoid unnecessary details that other authors use to create more “authentic” settings (which generally only succeed in setting up artificial backdrops that overshadow the characters}. Vaughn’s family estate in Falls Church becomes an important stage on which the two men’s relationship evolves; but the authors describe it in such a way as to shed light on Vaughn’s to-the-manner-born behavior.
Similarly, the sometimes-heavy-handed use of brand-names by other authors is more astutely tuned here. Vaughn is appalled by William’s bad suits, not because they make William any less appealing, but simply because Amory is a spoiled rich man. There’s a wonderful scene involving an Ermenegildo Zegna suit (one that I could only dream of owning). While this whole scene underscores Amory’s wildly different view of the world, it also makes it clear that his feelings for Will are true. We still groan slightly at what a spoiled douche Amory is (really? A $2000 suit is only “adequate”?); but we are compelled to see the love and generosity behind the actions. Amory Vaughn is what he is, warts and all.
Will Fox, by contrast, tilts toward the rigidly moralistic, horrified by his own compulsive attraction to Vaughn’s bad-boy aristocrat. He sees all the good in Vaughn, but he clings almost desperately to the things that show Vaughn’s disregard for “little people’s” rules. Will wants to dismiss Vaughn because of his wealth and his careless power; but he is too smart to do that, and it causes him no end of grief.
The sexy parts of this book are also really well done, something I appreciate more with every m/m book I read. God, I have gotten intolerant of dumbly written pro-forma sex scenes. Gale and Parrish don’t do that. Every intimate physical moment between these two men matters, moves their story forward. It is the complicated meshing of heart, mind and body that fuses Amory and Will together, and threatens them at every turn.
Only as I wrote this review did I notice that this is apparently the first of a series. Ooh.
July 20, 2017
This is a light, relationship-based book with some wit, some good banter and interactions, and two characters learning that an important part of a relationship is compromise. The cover felt a little at odds with the story - my first impression was historical rom-com (I don't read blurbs for auto-buy authors), when in fact this is a warm, witty but not comedic contemporary.
I enjoyed the interactions, even if it begins with a premise I'm sometimes impatient with - that sexual attraction can be so immediate and intense and necessary that it drives men to do things that conflict with their basic principles, and professional duties. But then, it's a staple trope and I guess we have enough public figures who've demonstrated the real possibility. Still, it put my hackles up with regard to FBI agent Will at the start.
I loved Amory, though. I appreciated his conflicting desire to control and to support and comfort. I liked the way his poor-little-rich-boy background wasn't melodramatic, but just enough to motivate his attitudes. I liked his unconscious snobbery, and his attempts to overcome it. And gradually I warmed to Will as well, in his slow escape from the rigid limits he had set himself. I liked the sparks they struck off each other, and the clever turns of phrase, and the underlying humanity of both men.
Although this was not as emotionally affecting as I am used to from these authors, it's not all fluff. There are real changes these guys go through, as they figure out whether it is possible for two such dissimilar men to have a real relationship. I expect I'll reread this in the future, and would definitely pick up another collaboration from these authors.
I enjoyed the interactions, even if it begins with a premise I'm sometimes impatient with - that sexual attraction can be so immediate and intense and necessary that it drives men to do things that conflict with their basic principles, and professional duties. But then, it's a staple trope and I guess we have enough public figures who've demonstrated the real possibility. Still, it put my hackles up with regard to FBI agent Will at the start.
I loved Amory, though. I appreciated his conflicting desire to control and to support and comfort. I liked the way his poor-little-rich-boy background wasn't melodramatic, but just enough to motivate his attitudes. I liked his unconscious snobbery, and his attempts to overcome it. And gradually I warmed to Will as well, in his slow escape from the rigid limits he had set himself. I liked the sparks they struck off each other, and the clever turns of phrase, and the underlying humanity of both men.
Although this was not as emotionally affecting as I am used to from these authors, it's not all fluff. There are real changes these guys go through, as they figure out whether it is possible for two such dissimilar men to have a real relationship. I expect I'll reread this in the future, and would definitely pick up another collaboration from these authors.
July 12, 2017
This one was good. I really liked Avon and Roan's cooperation in this book.
There was some steamy sexy times and the story line was strong.
I enjoyed this book and I'll definitely check out whatever these two authors come up with in the future.
Recommend.
There was some steamy sexy times and the story line was strong.
I enjoyed this book and I'll definitely check out whatever these two authors come up with in the future.
Recommend.
March 19, 2020
That was the first time in a long time I've listened to the sex scenes. Sweet. Funny. Just enough drama. Loved it.
July 13, 2017
Review also posted on From Top to Bottom Reviews.
I've read this book in various stages of its life; back from when it was an "Avon-only" story to what it is now. With each transformation it went through, it just got better and better.
Will follows the rules to a point - except for when it comes to Vaughn - and he's rather shy and quiet, though he can be very resolute and forward as well, if needed. He also has a deep sense of justice. Will doesn't just do his job because it's an obligation, but because he really believes in right and wrong. For him there are no grey areas. That's why, in a way, Amory is the most perfect partner for him - he's the Ying to his Yang - and at the same time the worst option possible because they're pretty much polar opposites.
Vaughn is more the person for whom rules are there to be bent. He grew up having everything he wanted and more; he grew up with the sense that when things are not to your liking you can just change them with enough money and persuasion. He's not an asshole about it though, flaunting it, rubbing it in everyone face. No, Amory Vaughn is more subtle than that.
And to Will's surprise, Vaughn has a very big heart - he supports good causes without taking credit for them or wanting it known that he donated money.
While he generally thinks more in shades of grey, Vaughn does have a sense of right and wrong; it's just not as straight as Wills.
Vaughn is so charmingly snobby there's just no way not to like him. And he's not just buying the best or most expensive because he can - though he definitely does - but because he wants what's best. Why settle with the cheap sheets in a hotel room when you can buy the million thread count ones? ;) Why not live your life to the fullest by changing things that you don't like?
Will and Vaughn (as you can see) are pretty much polar opposites in everything and yet they just work together. I loved their banter, the witty, sometimes snarky, back and forth, the humour and the romantic moments.
The push and pull throughout the story was delicious. It was awesome to see both Will and Vaughn influencing and challenging each other to be their best version of themselves without changing who the other is.
My favorite, though, was how they took care of each other. No matter what it was - and not just in the bedroom (or on the desk) - but also in their everyday life. Some of those things might have not been morally right, but they were done with the best intentions. And after all, those little imperfections make the characters more human and relatable.
Everything in this book was so vivid. From the various events Vaughn took part in/hosted, to the food - seriously the food in this book *will* make you hungry! - to their first date and Will's birthday. I felt like I was there with them - and I wished I was.
I didn't expect to love Will and Vaughn as much as I do, but somehow I fell for them. To me they are absolutely perfect together. I could have spent 10.000 more pages with them and it wouldn't be nearly enough. They're the kind of characters that just stay with you. Same goes for various side characters. First one is definitely James Novack, the art student/forger Vaughn meets early in the story and Samantha, Will's sister is another character I wouldn't mind *wink wink* reading more about.
Avon is one of my absolute favourite authors. I love her writing style, her characters the stories - just everything - which is also no secret. And Roan is definitely a "order immediately" kind of author for me too, so I was really excited to see them writing together. This writing team just works so well. Their writing styles complement each other and create a great atmospheric story that truly comes to life on page and won't let you go. In short I absolutely loved it all from first to last page.
There's a "1" on the spine of the book, so surely this means there'll be more? I'll just go and sit down right here to wait for the next book. ;)
I've read this book in various stages of its life; back from when it was an "Avon-only" story to what it is now. With each transformation it went through, it just got better and better.
Will follows the rules to a point - except for when it comes to Vaughn - and he's rather shy and quiet, though he can be very resolute and forward as well, if needed. He also has a deep sense of justice. Will doesn't just do his job because it's an obligation, but because he really believes in right and wrong. For him there are no grey areas. That's why, in a way, Amory is the most perfect partner for him - he's the Ying to his Yang - and at the same time the worst option possible because they're pretty much polar opposites.
Vaughn is more the person for whom rules are there to be bent. He grew up having everything he wanted and more; he grew up with the sense that when things are not to your liking you can just change them with enough money and persuasion. He's not an asshole about it though, flaunting it, rubbing it in everyone face. No, Amory Vaughn is more subtle than that.
And to Will's surprise, Vaughn has a very big heart - he supports good causes without taking credit for them or wanting it known that he donated money.
While he generally thinks more in shades of grey, Vaughn does have a sense of right and wrong; it's just not as straight as Wills.
Vaughn is so charmingly snobby there's just no way not to like him. And he's not just buying the best or most expensive because he can - though he definitely does - but because he wants what's best. Why settle with the cheap sheets in a hotel room when you can buy the million thread count ones? ;) Why not live your life to the fullest by changing things that you don't like?
Will and Vaughn (as you can see) are pretty much polar opposites in everything and yet they just work together. I loved their banter, the witty, sometimes snarky, back and forth, the humour and the romantic moments.
The push and pull throughout the story was delicious. It was awesome to see both Will and Vaughn influencing and challenging each other to be their best version of themselves without changing who the other is.
My favorite, though, was how they took care of each other. No matter what it was - and not just in the bedroom (or on the desk) - but also in their everyday life. Some of those things might have not been morally right, but they were done with the best intentions. And after all, those little imperfections make the characters more human and relatable.
Everything in this book was so vivid. From the various events Vaughn took part in/hosted, to the food - seriously the food in this book *will* make you hungry! - to their first date and Will's birthday. I felt like I was there with them - and I wished I was.
I didn't expect to love Will and Vaughn as much as I do, but somehow I fell for them. To me they are absolutely perfect together. I could have spent 10.000 more pages with them and it wouldn't be nearly enough. They're the kind of characters that just stay with you. Same goes for various side characters. First one is definitely James Novack, the art student/forger Vaughn meets early in the story and Samantha, Will's sister is another character I wouldn't mind *wink wink* reading more about.
Avon is one of my absolute favourite authors. I love her writing style, her characters the stories - just everything - which is also no secret. And Roan is definitely a "order immediately" kind of author for me too, so I was really excited to see them writing together. This writing team just works so well. Their writing styles complement each other and create a great atmospheric story that truly comes to life on page and won't let you go. In short I absolutely loved it all from first to last page.
There's a "1" on the spine of the book, so surely this means there'll be more? I'll just go and sit down right here to wait for the next book. ;)
August 24, 2017
2.5 stars
The premise of this book sounded great - an FBI agent and an art thief find love. Unfortunately, I had a lot of trouble getting into the story.
William and Amory are polar opposites. William’s reserved, introverted, and lives and breathes by the rules. Amory was born into luxury, is outgoing, and doesn’t believe the rules apply to him.
Though they find it hard to keep their hands off of each other, their different backgrounds lead to the two clashing often.
My disconnect with William and Amory started early on, with the theft of the painting. Though I knew it was coming, I still found the specifics odd. At that point, the only thing the two feel for each other is lust. How powerful does lust have to be to convince a man to steal a multi-million dollar painting, and to convince an officer of the law to turn a blind eye?
That being said, I did think that Amory made appropriate amends. Once he realizes that his wealth and illegal antics won’t win over William, Amory works hard to gain William’s respect.
And I can’t deny that these two had some serious sexual chemistry!
Amory and William also clicked emotionally, though it hinged pretty strongly on the insta-lust.
It wasn’t until well into the second half that I felt that I could really get why the two fell in love, but by that point my interest had already waned.
Part of the reason I found it hard to stay engaged with the book was the verbose writing, particularly from Amory’s POV. There were too many flowery descriptions - of food, paintings, decor, clothing, and internal monologues. I was skimming paragraphs to get to the point.
Overall, ‘Heart of the Steal’ was just on okay read for me. Though I found the romance to be sweet, the writing and the characters’ odd early behaviour made it difficult to really connect with them and enjoy the book.
The premise of this book sounded great - an FBI agent and an art thief find love. Unfortunately, I had a lot of trouble getting into the story.
William and Amory are polar opposites. William’s reserved, introverted, and lives and breathes by the rules. Amory was born into luxury, is outgoing, and doesn’t believe the rules apply to him.
Though they find it hard to keep their hands off of each other, their different backgrounds lead to the two clashing often.
My disconnect with William and Amory started early on, with the theft of the painting. Though I knew it was coming, I still found the specifics odd. At that point, the only thing the two feel for each other is lust. How powerful does lust have to be to convince a man to steal a multi-million dollar painting, and to convince an officer of the law to turn a blind eye?
That being said, I did think that Amory made appropriate amends. Once he realizes that his wealth and illegal antics won’t win over William, Amory works hard to gain William’s respect.
And I can’t deny that these two had some serious sexual chemistry!
Amory and William also clicked emotionally, though it hinged pretty strongly on the insta-lust.
It wasn’t until well into the second half that I felt that I could really get why the two fell in love, but by that point my interest had already waned.
Part of the reason I found it hard to stay engaged with the book was the verbose writing, particularly from Amory’s POV. There were too many flowery descriptions - of food, paintings, decor, clothing, and internal monologues. I was skimming paragraphs to get to the point.
Overall, ‘Heart of the Steal’ was just on okay read for me. Though I found the romance to be sweet, the writing and the characters’ odd early behaviour made it difficult to really connect with them and enjoy the book.
September 5, 2017
It’s so much fun to read a collaborative work of two authors whose writing I enjoy! Heart of the Steal by Avon Gale and Roan Parrish and had me laughing and smiling throughout.
The blended style these two created was distinctly unlike anything I’ve read by them individually.
Heart of the Steal isn’t as snarky as Gale’s Scoring Changes series (which I missed) and I think maybe Parrish kept it more on the straight and narrow… together it works!
I loved the sections of the story from Amory’s pov, his description of Will are priceless. The scene where Will is trying to select a piece of candy was one of my favorites. It gives great insight into Amory’s character, how different the Halloweens he’s celebrated and what his upbringing is like. Amory really appreciates these sweet little displays of Will’s personality.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two MCs in the scene after meeting Will’s ex in the Japanese restaurant. (Gale has to be responsible for this scene.) Amory’s teasing Will about being called his ‘boyfriend’ but Will gets him back by playing with Amory, ‘interrogating’ him about his ex-/boyfriend. His best “Agent Fox impression”. I smiled the whole way through that scene. Such cute banter.
These two authors were great together and I’m definitely hoping for more!
The blended style these two created was distinctly unlike anything I’ve read by them individually.
Heart of the Steal isn’t as snarky as Gale’s Scoring Changes series (which I missed) and I think maybe Parrish kept it more on the straight and narrow… together it works!
I loved the sections of the story from Amory’s pov, his description of Will are priceless. The scene where Will is trying to select a piece of candy was one of my favorites. It gives great insight into Amory’s character, how different the Halloweens he’s celebrated and what his upbringing is like. Amory really appreciates these sweet little displays of Will’s personality.
I really enjoyed the banter between the two MCs in the scene after meeting Will’s ex in the Japanese restaurant. (Gale has to be responsible for this scene.) Amory’s teasing Will about being called his ‘boyfriend’ but Will gets him back by playing with Amory, ‘interrogating’ him about his ex-/boyfriend. His best “Agent Fox impression”. I smiled the whole way through that scene. Such cute banter.
These two authors were great together and I’m definitely hoping for more!
July 23, 2017
3.75 Stars
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