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Interlude: Cavatina
Cavatina: A solo in the midst of a larger composition
Join the couples from your favorite Tal Bauer novels in Interlude: Cavatina, a collection of stories that brings everyone together in one volume!
Jack and Ethan Spiers-Reichenbach are settling into their marriage and enjoying their second holiday season together, this time in Texas instead of the White House. A phone call sends them to Wyoming, where Ethan must confront his past and seek answers to a question he never got a chance to ask.
Kris Caldera and Dawood Haddad have brought Dawood’s adopted son, Behroze, to America. But the family is struggling. Kris and Behroze fight constantly, with Dawood caught in the middle. What lingers in Behroze’s dark glower? How can Kris build a connection with his stepson?
Adam and Faisal al-Saud take their first steps in public as a married couple. Immediately, questions fly, and the United States takes a special interest in Adam. Between navigating the Americans’ demands and trying to make sense of what their long-term houseguest, Doc, needs from him, Adam can barely keep himself together through Ramadan.
In Rome, Cristoph and Luca battle risings and revenants and their own separate fears about Alain. Alain has pushed them both away, and as corpses pile up in Trastevere, Cristoph and Luca face their biggest fear: who has Alain become and what will they need to do?
Sasha Andreyev has made a name for himself at NASA. He’s one of the best astronaut trainees in the class. When it’s time to fly home to visit Sergey Puchkov in Moscow, he’s able to secure a surprise for Sergey: he’s coming home with something special, and he’s ready to give Sergey the high-speed ride of his life.
And in Washington DC, Tom Brewer and Mike Lucciano are ready to say those two little words: I do.
Author Note: Each couple’s story is independent of the others. And, though they all appear together in this novel, each universe remains separate and distinct. The Executive Office and the Hush/Whisper universes are not connected. The A Time to Rise universe also stands on its own. Readers may not be familiar with every couple or have read every novel. It is perfectly okay to read only the couples you care to.
This novel contains scenes of mature sexual content and is considered High Heat!
Join the couples from your favorite Tal Bauer novels in Interlude: Cavatina, a collection of stories that brings everyone together in one volume!
Jack and Ethan Spiers-Reichenbach are settling into their marriage and enjoying their second holiday season together, this time in Texas instead of the White House. A phone call sends them to Wyoming, where Ethan must confront his past and seek answers to a question he never got a chance to ask.
Kris Caldera and Dawood Haddad have brought Dawood’s adopted son, Behroze, to America. But the family is struggling. Kris and Behroze fight constantly, with Dawood caught in the middle. What lingers in Behroze’s dark glower? How can Kris build a connection with his stepson?
Adam and Faisal al-Saud take their first steps in public as a married couple. Immediately, questions fly, and the United States takes a special interest in Adam. Between navigating the Americans’ demands and trying to make sense of what their long-term houseguest, Doc, needs from him, Adam can barely keep himself together through Ramadan.
In Rome, Cristoph and Luca battle risings and revenants and their own separate fears about Alain. Alain has pushed them both away, and as corpses pile up in Trastevere, Cristoph and Luca face their biggest fear: who has Alain become and what will they need to do?
Sasha Andreyev has made a name for himself at NASA. He’s one of the best astronaut trainees in the class. When it’s time to fly home to visit Sergey Puchkov in Moscow, he’s able to secure a surprise for Sergey: he’s coming home with something special, and he’s ready to give Sergey the high-speed ride of his life.
And in Washington DC, Tom Brewer and Mike Lucciano are ready to say those two little words: I do.
Author Note: Each couple’s story is independent of the others. And, though they all appear together in this novel, each universe remains separate and distinct. The Executive Office and the Hush/Whisper universes are not connected. The A Time to Rise universe also stands on its own. Readers may not be familiar with every couple or have read every novel. It is perfectly okay to read only the couples you care to.
This novel contains scenes of mature sexual content and is considered High Heat!
164 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 7, 2019
128 people are currently reading
454 people want to read
About the author
Tal Bauer
27 books5,707 followersTal Bauer writes breathtaking, heartfelt, and often action-packed gay romance novels. His characters are head over heels for each other and fight against all odds for their happy ending. Nothing stands in the way of love. Tal is best known for his romantic suspense novels, including the Executive Office series, The Murder Between Us, The Grave Between Us, The Night of, and his MM sports romance, The Jock.
Website - www.talbauerwrites.com
Amazon Author - http://amazon.com/author/talbauer
Instagram - @TalBauerWrites
Newsletter - https://mailchi.mp/f1fd8baec198/talba...
Website - www.talbauerwrites.com
Amazon Author - http://amazon.com/author/talbauer
Instagram - @TalBauerWrites
Newsletter - https://mailchi.mp/f1fd8baec198/talba...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 20, 2019
***Overall 4-4.5 Stars***
Speaking of choices... Read a holiday story during the heat wave, she said. It will be refreshing, she said. It will cool you down, she said.
WARM AND FUZZY FEELZ ON TOP OF THE HEAT, THAT'S WHAT SHE GOT!
Not that I'm complaining, since I talked to myself in the first place here. ;-)
I can see a pattern clear as day: favorites stay favorites and not-so-favorites stay... not. ;-) I loved to revisit the couples of Tal Bauer's books - well, as far as I know them -, especially
5* for Adam & Faisal, whose story was about the desire for belonging and taking root somewhere far away from a family that doesn't deserve that name.
5* for Kris & Dawood (& Behroze), who conveyed how important acceptance is, not only toward others and within a family, but also to oneself.
4.5* for Jack & Ethan, whose story was filled with memories, those they shared and those that formed the men they are now and which actually made my eyes shiny, my nose running and my throat thick with emotions sometimes.
3.5* for Mike & Tom's moment at the beginning of their own forever, with the added half star for Etta Mae and her pink bandana.
3* for Sasha & Sergei, who show that you should stay true to yourself to follow your dreams and I thanked all my lucky stars that this time there were none of Santa's little four-legged helpers involved to give me nightmares.
For some mysterious reason I still can't fully connect to these guys past The Executive Office, though, don't ask me why.
No * for Cristoph & Alain (yet), since I haven't read their main story and I'll get back to them once I did.
I'm still not the biggest fan of the sometimes flowery writing, but that's Tal Bauer for you and I was happy to ignore it for some of my all-time favorite couples and to cut down on my eye-rolls. Now I'm ready for more snippets about these men, so the next winter can't come soon enough. ;-)
"You ever think about all the choices we make in life?"
Speaking of choices... Read a holiday story during the heat wave, she said. It will be refreshing, she said. It will cool you down, she said.
WARM AND FUZZY FEELZ ON TOP OF THE HEAT, THAT'S WHAT SHE GOT!
Not that I'm complaining, since I talked to myself in the first place here. ;-)
I can see a pattern clear as day: favorites stay favorites and not-so-favorites stay... not. ;-) I loved to revisit the couples of Tal Bauer's books - well, as far as I know them -, especially
5* for Adam & Faisal, whose story was about the desire for belonging and taking root somewhere far away from a family that doesn't deserve that name.
"... everything he'd yearned for, every doubt and fear he'd had through the years suddenly extinguished. Belonging flowed into him, surrounded him, filled his lungs and swept through his veins, as sudden and wonderful as if he'd dived into the ocean after a scorching day."
5* for Kris & Dawood (& Behroze), who conveyed how important acceptance is, not only toward others and within a family, but also to oneself.
"Kris's love for his family rested on convictions and fire, passion that moved wars and worlds. The conviction to keep his family safe, the conviction to put Dawood and Behroze first, always. His love for Dawood that had shaped a war that had gone on to shape the world. The conviction of a man who watched the towers fall and fell in love with the best man he'd ever met, a Muslim man, who raised a Muslim boy."
4.5* for Jack & Ethan, whose story was filled with memories, those they shared and those that formed the men they are now and which actually made my eyes shiny, my nose running and my throat thick with emotions sometimes.
"They kept going, pushing through the snow and shifting course, passing by trees that Ethan stopped at and put his palm on, closing his eyes. Jack probably thought he was communing with nature or following some kind of trail. No, he was following his memories. Years and years of memories exploded like fireworks in his mind."
3.5* for Mike & Tom's moment at the beginning of their own forever, with the added half star for Etta Mae and her pink bandana.
"Mike threaded their fingers together. He was more than ready for the rest of his life. He'd been ready for it, for this, from the moment he'd met Tom. He'd always been ready for forever with this man. Sunday mornings and waffles and late nights on the couch snapped in his mind, kisses and stolen glances and held hands. Waking up and seeing Tom's face and kissing him goodnight before they drifted off to sleep. Forever and always."
3* for Sasha & Sergei, who show that you should stay true to yourself to follow your dreams and I thanked all my lucky stars that this time there were none of Santa's little four-legged helpers involved to give me nightmares.
"Sergey was an infection in his soul: the longer they were together, the more Sasha started thinking about words like forever and always and the one. The more he started to believe in his long-lost dreams."
For some mysterious reason I still can't fully connect to these guys past The Executive Office, though, don't ask me why.
No * for Cristoph & Alain (yet), since I haven't read their main story and I'll get back to them once I did.
I'm still not the biggest fan of the sometimes flowery writing, but that's Tal Bauer for you and I was happy to ignore it for some of my all-time favorite couples and to cut down on my eye-rolls. Now I'm ready for more snippets about these men, so the next winter can't come soon enough. ;-)
March 27, 2019
New book, favourite old characters
• Cristoph & Alain from A Time to Rise - Vatican City, Rome
• Adam & Faisal from the Executive Office series - Manama, Bahrain & Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Kris & Dawood from Whisper - McLean, Virginia
• Tom & Mike from Hush - Washington DC
• Sergey & Sasha from the Executive Office series - Houston, Texas & Moscow, Russia
• Jack & Ethan from the Executive Office series - Austin, Texas & Wyoming
Well, this was an interesting little novel for the hardcore fans of Tal Bauer.
Obviously it is not an standalone and obviously if you have not read some of the previous books better skip the sections which include the continuation of these particular stories because you will not avoid the spoilers.
More or less I enjoyed the book, as it was a nice bridge to the next book by Tal that I pray that it will come soon because I keep experiencing withdrawal symptoms quite often recently.
Anyway, let's talk about the book. So, the stories alternate and some have more pages than others. Also, some stories feel like extended epilogues (you know, the HEA that was missing in the previous books) and the rest of the stories push the events forward.
But this in my personal opinion and maybe I got it all wrong. Maybe my perspective will change in the next books. I can understand it is hard to leave alone your favourite characters to continue with their lives without being watched and without being thrown into new adventures.
For example the story of Tom&Mike and the story of Jack&Ethan seem that they have reached their ultimate happy ending and no harm will be in their paths ever again. Fingers crossed.
The story of Cristoph & Alain seem that it has just started. The Time to Rise feels more and more like it was an introduction in this universe and now their short story in Interlude mostly creates questions than solves anything. Even the given solution in the previous book () is abandon in this book. I wait impatiently for more vampire stories that take place in the Vatican please!
On the other hand the stories of Adam & Faisal and especially Sergey & Sasha I have no idea where they are going. Adam & Faisal is a beloved couple and definitely deserve their one book, but their story can simply stop here with Adam being happy and spoiled royally in Faisal's arms like a Harlequin character in a desert forever and ever OR everything can go to hell in the next book and they will need to prove their love once more. The tranquility and peace that they live right now is very fragile.
Sergey & Sasha still does not convince me as a couple. I have left them in an interesting place in Ascendent and now I feel that their story is going again nowhere. Will there be an Ascendent II? I am not so sure any more.
Finally, my favourite story is once more the one that includes Kris and Dawood. Still it is the most heartbreaking story and the most agonizing reality. Two civilisations, two religions, two so different men that now have a child to raise and show him that there is life, love, devotion and happiness away from the Afganistan mountains. I think that Kris is making once more the most sacrifices.
Even in Whisper it felt that Dawood was doing everything for his sense of justice and duty, while Kris was doing everything for his unquestionable and heartwrenching love for his husband. I am not sure this story is their epilogue. They have so many enemies and there are so many complications in their lives. Bad things will happen again for sure.
Overall, if you know and like like Tal's writing style, you will know what t expect. The book is exactly what you imagine it is. Have fun!
• Cristoph & Alain from A Time to Rise - Vatican City, Rome
• Adam & Faisal from the Executive Office series - Manama, Bahrain & Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
• Kris & Dawood from Whisper - McLean, Virginia
• Tom & Mike from Hush - Washington DC
• Sergey & Sasha from the Executive Office series - Houston, Texas & Moscow, Russia
• Jack & Ethan from the Executive Office series - Austin, Texas & Wyoming
Well, this was an interesting little novel for the hardcore fans of Tal Bauer.
Obviously it is not an standalone and obviously if you have not read some of the previous books better skip the sections which include the continuation of these particular stories because you will not avoid the spoilers.
More or less I enjoyed the book, as it was a nice bridge to the next book by Tal that I pray that it will come soon because I keep experiencing withdrawal symptoms quite often recently.
Anyway, let's talk about the book. So, the stories alternate and some have more pages than others. Also, some stories feel like extended epilogues (you know, the HEA that was missing in the previous books) and the rest of the stories push the events forward.
But this in my personal opinion and maybe I got it all wrong. Maybe my perspective will change in the next books. I can understand it is hard to leave alone your favourite characters to continue with their lives without being watched and without being thrown into new adventures.
For example the story of Tom&Mike and the story of Jack&Ethan seem that they have reached their ultimate happy ending and no harm will be in their paths ever again. Fingers crossed.
The story of Cristoph & Alain seem that it has just started. The Time to Rise feels more and more like it was an introduction in this universe and now their short story in Interlude mostly creates questions than solves anything. Even the given solution in the previous book () is abandon in this book. I wait impatiently for more vampire stories that take place in the Vatican please!
On the other hand the stories of Adam & Faisal and especially Sergey & Sasha I have no idea where they are going. Adam & Faisal is a beloved couple and definitely deserve their one book, but their story can simply stop here with Adam being happy and spoiled royally in Faisal's arms like a Harlequin character in a desert forever and ever OR everything can go to hell in the next book and they will need to prove their love once more. The tranquility and peace that they live right now is very fragile.
Sergey & Sasha still does not convince me as a couple. I have left them in an interesting place in Ascendent and now I feel that their story is going again nowhere. Will there be an Ascendent II? I am not so sure any more.
Finally, my favourite story is once more the one that includes Kris and Dawood. Still it is the most heartbreaking story and the most agonizing reality. Two civilisations, two religions, two so different men that now have a child to raise and show him that there is life, love, devotion and happiness away from the Afganistan mountains. I think that Kris is making once more the most sacrifices.
Even in Whisper it felt that Dawood was doing everything for his sense of justice and duty, while Kris was doing everything for his unquestionable and heartwrenching love for his husband. I am not sure this story is their epilogue. They have so many enemies and there are so many complications in their lives. Bad things will happen again for sure.
Overall, if you know and like like Tal's writing style, you will know what t expect. The book is exactly what you imagine it is. Have fun!
March 11, 2019
Since I’m garbage for approximately half of these couples, I ditched my weekend plans to read this surprise release. Spoiler alert: it was totally worth it.
Christoph, Alain, and Luca
I know that I should root for Alain and Christoph. But guess what?
The ending kind of broke my heart. Face flushed. Stomach hurt. It is a testament to Bauer’s talent that he invokes such strong emotions. My review for A Time to Rise applies here: the suspense-infused supernatural aspects are intriguing, but I’m not a fan of Alain and Christoph’s relationship. More potent feelings and hot smex (which was less hot when recalling that Alain smells like rot) didn’t persuade me.
Since the story confirmed that a couple switcheroo is a pipe dream and I'm apparently hardcore #TeamLuca, I must proceed with caution regarding future installments.
Adam and Faisal
Hope and heartbreak. Fortunately, the heartbreak was unrelated to Adam and Faisal’s relationship. They are precious and pure cinnamon rolls and we must protect them! More of Adam’s background is revealed, and he struggles to find his place. He is deeply hurt. Yet the ending was uplifting.
I’m a greedy biatch for Adam and Faisal, and the lack of ample “together time” slightly disappointed me. Dare I hope that the next full-length novel features them? I hope because I love them, yes, but also because I have to know: WHAT IS GOING ON WITH DOC?! If Coleman left Bahrain because something happened between them, please let that something show itself soon - and help heal the good doctor.
Dawood and Kris
When I first read Whisper, I put it on hold them skimmed to the end. The subject matter was difficult, and I don't deal well with separations. Suffice it to say that I was surprised to enjoy this. The problems were relatable and the resolution was beautiful. You do things that you wouldn’t ordinarily do for the people that you love. You can do these things without compromising your core beliefs.
Jack and Ethan
I didn’t realize how much I missed these two until I read this. I loved every sickly sweet second. I’m really not one for sickly sweet, but when it comes to Jack and Ethan? Bring on the toothaches. Fans of TEO series will appreciate learning more about Ethan’s past, and anyone who has lost a parent will find Ethan’s tribute to his father poignant and comforting. Not to mention the references to Jack and Ethan's consulting business will inspire much curiosity for future books.
Tom and Mike
Short and sweet. Too short, really, because Tom and Mike have a special place in my heart. When I read Hush, they got to me. They still get to me. And Etta Mae is still QUEEN.
Sergey and Sasha
I liked, but never loved, Sergey and Sasha as a couple. Their book, Ascendent, wasn’t a favorite (no offense to reindeer, but I’ll be happy if I never see one again in a romance novel). But this interlude was nice and bittersweet. Although I still struggle with their long-distance relationship, Sasha has to pursue his dreams and Sergey will wait for him. That’s just the way it is.
Recommended for tried and true fans of Bauer's boys. Enjoy Interlude: Cavatina - I certainly did.
Christoph, Alain, and Luca
I know that I should root for Alain and Christoph. But guess what?
The ending kind of broke my heart. Face flushed. Stomach hurt. It is a testament to Bauer’s talent that he invokes such strong emotions. My review for A Time to Rise applies here: the suspense-infused supernatural aspects are intriguing, but I’m not a fan of Alain and Christoph’s relationship. More potent feelings and hot smex (which was less hot when recalling that Alain smells like rot) didn’t persuade me.
Since the story confirmed that a couple switcheroo is a pipe dream and I'm apparently hardcore #TeamLuca, I must proceed with caution regarding future installments.
Adam and Faisal
Hope and heartbreak. Fortunately, the heartbreak was unrelated to Adam and Faisal’s relationship. They are precious and pure cinnamon rolls and we must protect them! More of Adam’s background is revealed, and he struggles to find his place. He is deeply hurt. Yet the ending was uplifting.
I’m a greedy biatch for Adam and Faisal, and the lack of ample “together time” slightly disappointed me. Dare I hope that the next full-length novel features them? I hope because I love them, yes, but also because I have to know: WHAT IS GOING ON WITH DOC?! If Coleman left Bahrain because something happened between them, please let that something show itself soon - and help heal the good doctor.
Dawood and Kris
When I first read Whisper, I put it on hold them skimmed to the end. The subject matter was difficult, and I don't deal well with separations. Suffice it to say that I was surprised to enjoy this. The problems were relatable and the resolution was beautiful. You do things that you wouldn’t ordinarily do for the people that you love. You can do these things without compromising your core beliefs.
Jack and Ethan
I didn’t realize how much I missed these two until I read this. I loved every sickly sweet second. I’m really not one for sickly sweet, but when it comes to Jack and Ethan? Bring on the toothaches. Fans of TEO series will appreciate learning more about Ethan’s past, and anyone who has lost a parent will find Ethan’s tribute to his father poignant and comforting. Not to mention the references to Jack and Ethan's consulting business will inspire much curiosity for future books.
Tom and Mike
Short and sweet. Too short, really, because Tom and Mike have a special place in my heart. When I read Hush, they got to me. They still get to me. And Etta Mae is still QUEEN.
Sergey and Sasha
I liked, but never loved, Sergey and Sasha as a couple. Their book, Ascendent, wasn’t a favorite (no offense to reindeer, but I’ll be happy if I never see one again in a romance novel). But this interlude was nice and bittersweet. Although I still struggle with their long-distance relationship, Sasha has to pursue his dreams and Sergey will wait for him. That’s just the way it is.
Recommended for tried and true fans of Bauer's boys. Enjoy Interlude: Cavatina - I certainly did.
August 10, 2021
OMG revisiting Tal's characters was such a present! Loved every page of this book.
Massive hearteyes for reading about my forever loves David and Kris.
Jack and Ethan were as swoony as ever.
Mike and Tom!!
ADAM AND FAISAL CAN WE PLEASE GET THEIR BOOK SOON!
GAH. So many heart eyes 😻
Massive hearteyes for reading about my forever loves David and Kris.
Jack and Ethan were as swoony as ever.
Mike and Tom!!
ADAM AND FAISAL CAN WE PLEASE GET THEIR BOOK SOON!
GAH. So many heart eyes 😻
March 13, 2019
4.5 stars!
I've missed Tal Bauer books, even if it's just an Interlude one with short stories of all the couples, so I was happy to get more from him, and some more from my favorite couples.
The only chapters I didn't read were the ones about the couple from A Time to Rise because I have not read that, but I read the rest.
Jack + Ethan: I absolutely adored their story. Each short story isn't put together - as in one chapter would be about Jack and Ethan, then the next would be about Dawood and Kris and then so on - and Jack and Ethan's was just wonderful and I loved it. They're just living their life, happy together. They got sugar sweet several times throughout this but that's just them and how they work together. They love each other SO much and it warms my heart and makes me giddy that I don't care that they get sugary sweet. Also, it's good to remind your partner of how much you love them, mmkay? Couples should do it more often.
Also, we got another amazing sex scene between these two. I just love their intimate moments together - although lbr, they're intimate together almost every minute they're together :D. There is the slightest, tiniest bit of angst with Ethan remembering his father and him and Jack going to Wyoming where he grew up because things of his father's was found on the old farm were he had worked. But it was more about just learning more about Ethan's father and I liked that.
Great story for these two.
Adam + Faisal: Theirs was probably the most disappointing for me. Not that it wasn't interesting and important for Adam and everything, but there was barely any Adam and Faisal together. Not even just sex, I mean, but together, talking and loving each other. It focused mainly on Adam dealing with Doc - who is going through shit - and then his family who are a shitty family, and so Adam is feeling that aside from Faisal he has no one.
But then Faisal's uncle tells him that isn't so. So it was great for Adam and he got to a more solid place to be with Faisal, but I wish we had gotten more between them. I adore them together and wish their story had actually focused at least somewhat on them. Faisal barely felt a part of this story, imo. Big reason why I'm taking off .5 for this book.
Kris + Dawood: Their story was interesting - and I also loved that we got a sex scene between them (even though it ended in some, ahem, embarrassment) because in the main novel I felt like we didn't get enough between them - with Behroze, Dawood's adoptive son, having come over to America, and things aren't going as well as Kris and Dawood had hoped.
Kris thinks Behroze hates him, but it turns out not be that. I was impressed with how Bauer handled this. I was worried that he would have Kris give in and convert to Islam because Behroze clearly wants that and thinks Kris is going to hell if he isn't a Muslim and that Kris doesn't love Dawood as much as Dawood loves Kris because it seems Kris doesn't want eternity with Dawood - because of the afterlife if you follow Islam and so on.
I like that it was more complicated that what it first appeared to be, but I was about to get annoyed because Kris goes to the Mosque and he kind of joins in on their prayers and everything. But he's doing it for Behroze, who needs it to feel stability and like Kris truly loves his father. But Kris still isn't a Muslim and he isn't converting like Adam converted for Faisal (which, felt natural for Adam and like he wasn't just doing it because people wanted him to.) but he's trying for Behroze, which I think was important.
I just didn't want Kris to give in and believe in something he doesn't actually believe in, even though he respects it and Dawood and Behroze immensely. I've just read and seen too many stories where someone doesn't believe and doesn't want to believe and all the sudden they believe, they've seen the light or what have you because of a few persuasive arguments and I'm like..no. NO. Like let someone who doesn't believe continue not to believe, please! I'm glad this story did that, and that it brought Dawood and Kris more peace and let them be more settled. They deserve all the happiness after the shit they went through, honestly.
Sasha + Sergey: I still continue to wish I loved these two more. I very much enjoy them and I was glad to see Sasha so happy and settled after everything he's been through and to see Sergey happy after all Sasha has put him through, but I just don't love them as much as the other couples. It wasn't crazy exciting to read them together, it just wasn't. I have a feeling of "ooh this is nice, they're being sweet together, yay they're happy" but not "omg I love them so much I can't wait to read MORE about them" it just isn't happening for me.
Maybe it's because even now Sasha still has those thoughts and worries, even though now he can push past them. But ugh he still thought about how he should leave and it would be better for Sergey and blah blah blahh. Of course he was also like "no, I'm good and I'm not doing that" but STILL. Like you went through this whole crazy journey to "save your soul" and you still think this shit sometimes? I swear to god, I'm just tired of that. I know he and Sergey are still hiding for good reason and it will take time for Sasha to really get to a good, settled place, but seriously. Sasha still seems to hold back a little, even in private. Or maybe that's just how I felt reading it. *shrug*
Mike + Tom: That's it? That's all we got? I wanted more, so much more of these two. I'm so so happy they got married, I loved that, but it was such a quick chapter. These two deserved more, imo. Or at least an extra scene of them getting to be lovey dovey, maybe talk about their lives and their future and everything. But I was happy with what we did get.
Overall I enjoyed these stories and I can't wait for more from Bauer, whatever story that may be. I loved getting to say hi to some of my favorite couples and getting to see how they're doing and getting more moments between them.
I've missed Tal Bauer books, even if it's just an Interlude one with short stories of all the couples, so I was happy to get more from him, and some more from my favorite couples.
The only chapters I didn't read were the ones about the couple from A Time to Rise because I have not read that, but I read the rest.
Jack + Ethan: I absolutely adored their story. Each short story isn't put together - as in one chapter would be about Jack and Ethan, then the next would be about Dawood and Kris and then so on - and Jack and Ethan's was just wonderful and I loved it. They're just living their life, happy together. They got sugar sweet several times throughout this but that's just them and how they work together. They love each other SO much and it warms my heart and makes me giddy that I don't care that they get sugary sweet. Also, it's good to remind your partner of how much you love them, mmkay? Couples should do it more often.
Also, we got another amazing sex scene between these two. I just love their intimate moments together - although lbr, they're intimate together almost every minute they're together :D. There is the slightest, tiniest bit of angst with Ethan remembering his father and him and Jack going to Wyoming where he grew up because things of his father's was found on the old farm were he had worked. But it was more about just learning more about Ethan's father and I liked that.
Great story for these two.
Adam + Faisal: Theirs was probably the most disappointing for me. Not that it wasn't interesting and important for Adam and everything, but there was barely any Adam and Faisal together. Not even just sex, I mean, but together, talking and loving each other. It focused mainly on Adam dealing with Doc - who is going through shit - and then his family who are a shitty family, and so Adam is feeling that aside from Faisal he has no one.
But then Faisal's uncle tells him that isn't so. So it was great for Adam and he got to a more solid place to be with Faisal, but I wish we had gotten more between them. I adore them together and wish their story had actually focused at least somewhat on them. Faisal barely felt a part of this story, imo. Big reason why I'm taking off .5 for this book.
Kris + Dawood: Their story was interesting - and I also loved that we got a sex scene between them (even though it ended in some, ahem, embarrassment) because in the main novel I felt like we didn't get enough between them - with Behroze, Dawood's adoptive son, having come over to America, and things aren't going as well as Kris and Dawood had hoped.
Kris thinks Behroze hates him, but it turns out not be that. I was impressed with how Bauer handled this. I was worried that he would have Kris give in and convert to Islam because Behroze clearly wants that and thinks Kris is going to hell if he isn't a Muslim and that Kris doesn't love Dawood as much as Dawood loves Kris because it seems Kris doesn't want eternity with Dawood - because of the afterlife if you follow Islam and so on.
I like that it was more complicated that what it first appeared to be, but I was about to get annoyed because Kris goes to the Mosque and he kind of joins in on their prayers and everything. But he's doing it for Behroze, who needs it to feel stability and like Kris truly loves his father. But Kris still isn't a Muslim and he isn't converting like Adam converted for Faisal (which, felt natural for Adam and like he wasn't just doing it because people wanted him to.) but he's trying for Behroze, which I think was important.
I just didn't want Kris to give in and believe in something he doesn't actually believe in, even though he respects it and Dawood and Behroze immensely. I've just read and seen too many stories where someone doesn't believe and doesn't want to believe and all the sudden they believe, they've seen the light or what have you because of a few persuasive arguments and I'm like..no. NO. Like let someone who doesn't believe continue not to believe, please! I'm glad this story did that, and that it brought Dawood and Kris more peace and let them be more settled. They deserve all the happiness after the shit they went through, honestly.
Sasha + Sergey: I still continue to wish I loved these two more. I very much enjoy them and I was glad to see Sasha so happy and settled after everything he's been through and to see Sergey happy after all Sasha has put him through, but I just don't love them as much as the other couples. It wasn't crazy exciting to read them together, it just wasn't. I have a feeling of "ooh this is nice, they're being sweet together, yay they're happy" but not "omg I love them so much I can't wait to read MORE about them" it just isn't happening for me.
Maybe it's because even now Sasha still has those thoughts and worries, even though now he can push past them. But ugh he still thought about how he should leave and it would be better for Sergey and blah blah blahh. Of course he was also like "no, I'm good and I'm not doing that" but STILL. Like you went through this whole crazy journey to "save your soul" and you still think this shit sometimes? I swear to god, I'm just tired of that. I know he and Sergey are still hiding for good reason and it will take time for Sasha to really get to a good, settled place, but seriously. Sasha still seems to hold back a little, even in private. Or maybe that's just how I felt reading it. *shrug*
Mike + Tom: That's it? That's all we got? I wanted more, so much more of these two. I'm so so happy they got married, I loved that, but it was such a quick chapter. These two deserved more, imo. Or at least an extra scene of them getting to be lovey dovey, maybe talk about their lives and their future and everything. But I was happy with what we did get.
Overall I enjoyed these stories and I can't wait for more from Bauer, whatever story that may be. I loved getting to say hi to some of my favorite couples and getting to see how they're doing and getting more moments between them.
May 12, 2019
***** Cavatina: solo in the midst of a larger composition !
A combination of shorts of our favorite characters in some of Tal's most wonderful books. These are guys we already love from the books we've read, so that we can see how things are going in their lives.
#1) #4) #7) Our peaked interest in the Knights of Templar, the Vatican, and Alain, the Vampire. Christoph wants Alain to come home, but Alain stalks the darkness. Luca and Christoph come across an Incubus and Alain's actions.
#2) #5) #11) Faisal and Adam are going to the Embassy in Bahrain. Their first public appearance since they married. Both are now royalty, awaiting reactions. Later, Adam is sadly dissed, and insulted by an ex-coworker, but gets an even deeper bond with his new life.
#3) #6) #9) #14) In Virginia, Kris, Dawood and Behroze are dealing with homelife in the states. Behroze is not adjusting to Kris, and then there is a discovery, and efforts made.
#8) #12) #15) #16) My favorites: In Austin, Tx we see Jack and Ethan, (former President and Secret Service agent) at Jack's family home for Christmas. We learn some tlaes from Jack's life. Ethan recievesd a call from Wyoming, where sentimental items are waiting. Then we see Ethan's trip down memory lane with Jack at his side. Their love keeps growing deeper. Later on President's Day, Ethan plans a surprise for Jack.
#10) #13) Here we runite with Sergey, Russia's President , and Sasha, who is going through Astronaut training. He will be surprising Sergey with his visit to Moscow. A secret flight and then a public flight.
Tal Bauer is a magnificently talented author, and it was a joy to read these short sections of our wonderful couples and how thier lives are progressing even with the ups and downs.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
======
A combination of shorts of our favorite characters in some of Tal's most wonderful books. These are guys we already love from the books we've read, so that we can see how things are going in their lives.
#1) #4) #7) Our peaked interest in the Knights of Templar, the Vatican, and Alain, the Vampire. Christoph wants Alain to come home, but Alain stalks the darkness. Luca and Christoph come across an Incubus and Alain's actions.
#2) #5) #11) Faisal and Adam are going to the Embassy in Bahrain. Their first public appearance since they married. Both are now royalty, awaiting reactions. Later, Adam is sadly dissed, and insulted by an ex-coworker, but gets an even deeper bond with his new life.
#3) #6) #9) #14) In Virginia, Kris, Dawood and Behroze are dealing with homelife in the states. Behroze is not adjusting to Kris, and then there is a discovery, and efforts made.
#8) #12) #15) #16) My favorites: In Austin, Tx we see Jack and Ethan, (former President and Secret Service agent) at Jack's family home for Christmas. We learn some tlaes from Jack's life. Ethan recievesd a call from Wyoming, where sentimental items are waiting. Then we see Ethan's trip down memory lane with Jack at his side. Their love keeps growing deeper. Later on President's Day, Ethan plans a surprise for Jack.
#10) #13) Here we runite with Sergey, Russia's President , and Sasha, who is going through Astronaut training. He will be surprising Sergey with his visit to Moscow. A secret flight and then a public flight.
Tal Bauer is a magnificently talented author, and it was a joy to read these short sections of our wonderful couples and how thier lives are progressing even with the ups and downs.
Highly recommended. ENJOY !
======
August 21, 2020
If you love Tal Bauer’s Executive Office series, Whisper, Hush or a Time To Rise, then you won’t want to miss this little gem; a brief glimpse into the characters ongoing adventures. I’m rating this purely on the short stories of the Executive Office cast. To say I’m addicted is a bit of an understatement. In addition, without the added element of danger at every turn, I could just sit back and enjoy without having my nerves torn to shreds.
Jack & Ethan are rebuilding and enjoying their marriage and the love and support of Jack’s family. Ethan’s attempt at poetry turned me into a pile of mush. I just can’t get enough of these two (sigh)! Sergey & Sasha are happy in love but living in secrecy. They’ve whet my appetite for more and I’m excited to read their spin-off series Ascendent. Adam & Faisal are married and settled in Bahrain. Whilst they’ve both been accepted by the royal family, Adam suffers rejection closer to home and I couldn’t help wonder if there’s more to come for this pair and for fellow marine Doc.
Although brief, I thoroughly enjoyed this 💜
Jack & Ethan are rebuilding and enjoying their marriage and the love and support of Jack’s family. Ethan’s attempt at poetry turned me into a pile of mush. I just can’t get enough of these two (sigh)! Sergey & Sasha are happy in love but living in secrecy. They’ve whet my appetite for more and I’m excited to read their spin-off series Ascendent. Adam & Faisal are married and settled in Bahrain. Whilst they’ve both been accepted by the royal family, Adam suffers rejection closer to home and I couldn’t help wonder if there’s more to come for this pair and for fellow marine Doc.
Although brief, I thoroughly enjoyed this 💜
April 8, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Interlude: Cavatina is an anthology with stories featuring characters from across Tal Bauer’s books. This includes Mike and Tom from Hush and Kris and Dawood from Whisper; Christoph and Alain from A Time to Rise; and Jack and Ethan, Adam and Faisal, and Sasha and Sergey from The Executive Office and Executive Powers series.
The structure of this anthology is interesting as most of the stories are told across multiple chapters, but not sequentially. So when you move from one chapter to the next, it switches the story and you may not return to a couple for several more chapters. For example, Christoph and Alain are featured in Chapters 1, 4, and 7, and all three chapters together complete their story. Each universe is kept separate and characters do not cross from one to the other, so you could read the entire book or just pick selected couples/worlds. These stories do take place after the events of the books, however, so in some cases there are spoilers for elements of those books.
Read Jay’s and Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Interlude: Cavatina is an anthology with stories featuring characters from across Tal Bauer’s books. This includes Mike and Tom from Hush and Kris and Dawood from Whisper; Christoph and Alain from A Time to Rise; and Jack and Ethan, Adam and Faisal, and Sasha and Sergey from The Executive Office and Executive Powers series.
The structure of this anthology is interesting as most of the stories are told across multiple chapters, but not sequentially. So when you move from one chapter to the next, it switches the story and you may not return to a couple for several more chapters. For example, Christoph and Alain are featured in Chapters 1, 4, and 7, and all three chapters together complete their story. Each universe is kept separate and characters do not cross from one to the other, so you could read the entire book or just pick selected couples/worlds. These stories do take place after the events of the books, however, so in some cases there are spoilers for elements of those books.
Read Jay’s and Michelle's review in its entirety here.
August 19, 2021
OMG what a treat. I loved it!! This book is an extended epilogue of a number of Tal Bauer's books and I've loved every word of it!!!
I've skipped the scenes from A Time to Rise, because I've not (yet) read it.
So amazing to read about Ambassador Faisal al-Saud and his husband, His Highness Adam Cooper al-Saud.
Read about Ethan & Jack “You know, I was The President of the United States”.
And about Doc's struggles, who's name is Luis!!!
About Sergey & soon-to-be astronaut Sasha.
And about the married life of Dawood and Kris with their (step) son Behroze.
About Tom & Mike getting married.
I'll come back to it, read the skipped chapters after I read A Time to Rise.
July 15, 2021
This was a nice collection of stories about couples created by Tal Bauer. I liked Ethan and Jack's happy light hearted banter, Mike and Tom's sweet wedding and Sasha and Sergey's shenanigans. Not all the stories were happy though. My heart hurt for Adam. He still has ways to go to be happy. I think his story should be told next. I like Adam and Faisal together and can't wait to see what the author has in store for them. I left the other two couples unread for now. I need to reread Whisper again to fully appreciate Kris and Dawood's story. I enjoyed this book.
April 1, 2019
Lovely little catch-ups with Jack/Ethan, Tom/Mike, Adam/Faisal, Kris/Dawood and Behroze and finally Sasha/Sergey. Weddings, Valentines etc. Perfect endings for 2 perfect series.
March 8, 2019
"He counted kisses like moments now, hoarded them and kept them sealed in his heart."
As startlingly beautiful and flawlessly written as I've come to expect from Mr Bauer.
“All I ever want is you. Every day, just you.”
This book is everything I never knew I needed in my life. Its a collection of short stories featuring Tal Bauer's characters. All the characters from Tal's universes in one book! I must stress these are individual stories about each couple and not an interlinked multi-verse story. As always with Tal this book is beautifully written and intricitly executed to perfection.
"My love for you both is my devotion. My faith I place in both of your hearts. You are my everything. Always."
With each chapter you seemlessly delve back in to those characters' world and lives. Diving back in to their love, losses, daily struggles and triumphs. I didn't want each chapter to end. I feel I could endlessly read Tal's words about these characters even if they are just going about their daily lives. There are no spoilers in this book but I wouldn't read it as a standalone and I of course recommend you read all of Tal's previous works first, mainly due their literary brilliance if nothing else.
'That voice inside of him was still there— caution, careful, be on guard, never, ever, slip—but… But he was happy. It was strange, like seeing color after a lifetime of gray. How his thoughts were lighter. How he looked forward to his days, and even more so to his times with Sergey. How deeply he loved Sergey, deeper than his bones, than his blood. Their love was something on an atomic level, something imprinted on his base elements.'
Tal has an inherent ability of capturing your attention from his first written word. His capacity to create worlds and stories that you can immerse yourself in time and time again is truly breathtaking. What could be described as a collection of 'catch up' stories with his characters is actually so much more. Its a beautifully written 'Cavatina' that leaves you both satisfied and desperately wanting more at the same time. I've scattered a few of my favourite quotes throughout my review, some will be obvious which characters they are about, some not. I'll leave you to read this wonderful book to find them and enjoy for yourself.
“Mr. President. I’m with you all the way.”
March 9, 2019
These are continuations of stories and worlds already in progress, reading the previous stories is would be helpful to understand what's happening.
So, so, so glad to get a peek at all our favorite couples, interesting choice to throw all the world’s together in one collection, but whatever, still happy to get it. I was not a fan of alternating the chapters, I totally get why, but it didn’t work for me. Simply for ease of standing alone, not confusing the worlds, or in my case you’re not caught up on one and have to skip, it would have been much easier to read each one separately.
Sergey & Sasha: I haven’t read Ascendant yet, so I had to skip their sections.
Tom & Mike: Their story was lovely and so sweet, but much too short. I would have loved more from them.
Kris & Dawood: I wasn’t a fan of this one. There’s just something that feels wrong to me about being guilted into doing something you don’t believe in, it gave me flashbacks and hurt my heart.
Jack & Ethan: So funny in the beginning, loved meeting Jack’s parents. This one made me cry in the good way. So sweetly sad, but loving and then a super sweet ending. They are just such relationship goals.
Adam & Faisal: This was perfection. Some sweetness, some angst (poor Adam), then heartwarming...I feel so giddy and full of hope after reading it. I just love these two so much, and I really hope there’s going to be more from them soon.
Cristoph & Alain: This made me mad. I was so FREAKING excited to get new content from them. I’ve been waiting years, YEARS! Then to tease me with this, just to leave them worse off than before with more angst?? If I thought there was a chance their book was coming I might not be so upset, but since that’s not likely to happen soon, because everyone wants the freaking contemporaries...well I’m pissed. Screw that, I almost wish I hadn’t read their short...I’ll just be over here crying under my blanket.
Of course the writing in all was excellent as you would expect from Bauer. I did side eye some things and details that were wonky, and the arrangement didn’t work for me. Alternating meant all the hotness in everyone's stories was back to back. Overall I was glad to get some peeks into our favs, and Bauer is still my all time favorite, but I’m officially pouting until I get my ATTR sequel. :p
So, so, so glad to get a peek at all our favorite couples, interesting choice to throw all the world’s together in one collection, but whatever, still happy to get it. I was not a fan of alternating the chapters, I totally get why, but it didn’t work for me. Simply for ease of standing alone, not confusing the worlds, or in my case you’re not caught up on one and have to skip, it would have been much easier to read each one separately.
Sergey & Sasha: I haven’t read Ascendant yet, so I had to skip their sections.
Tom & Mike: Their story was lovely and so sweet, but much too short. I would have loved more from them.
Kris & Dawood: I wasn’t a fan of this one. There’s just something that feels wrong to me about being guilted into doing something you don’t believe in, it gave me flashbacks and hurt my heart.
Jack & Ethan: So funny in the beginning, loved meeting Jack’s parents. This one made me cry in the good way. So sweetly sad, but loving and then a super sweet ending. They are just such relationship goals.
Adam & Faisal: This was perfection. Some sweetness, some angst (poor Adam), then heartwarming...I feel so giddy and full of hope after reading it. I just love these two so much, and I really hope there’s going to be more from them soon.
Cristoph & Alain: This made me mad. I was so FREAKING excited to get new content from them. I’ve been waiting years, YEARS! Then to tease me with this, just to leave them worse off than before with more angst?? If I thought there was a chance their book was coming I might not be so upset, but since that’s not likely to happen soon, because everyone wants the freaking contemporaries...well I’m pissed. Screw that, I almost wish I hadn’t read their short...I’ll just be over here crying under my blanket.
Of course the writing in all was excellent as you would expect from Bauer. I did side eye some things and details that were wonky, and the arrangement didn’t work for me. Alternating meant all the hotness in everyone's stories was back to back. Overall I was glad to get some peeks into our favs, and Bauer is still my all time favorite, but I’m officially pouting until I get my ATTR sequel. :p
June 24, 2019
I only read this for Jack & Ethan. Their story was very romantic, sentimental and a little sad. I miss these two.
December 14, 2022
4.75 / 5: To know that Allah is in everyone," Behroze had whispered. "His light and His love are in every person's soul. And our purpose is to love each other the way Allah loves us, as we are loving Him when we do."
this anthology made me feel so much, it was so overwhelming. most of it was genuine love because i got the chance to revisit couples i hadn't read from in quite a bit, but there were other parts, too, that glimmered with a lot of sadness as we see these characters reflect on the events that occurred in their stories and the impacts it weighs on their shoulders now. in both cases, it feels like i went full-circle with my reading journey up to this point because when I first stumbled upon this anthology, i hadn't been familiar with three of the couples who are present. at the time, i had only really known about the couples from the executive office saga, and even then, i was mostly paying attention to sasha & sergey's stories. coming back to this in the last month of the year, after having already read almost all of tal bauer's works by now, it felt like such perfect timing. and by the gods, it was absolutely everything getting to actually enjoy this anthology for what it represented now with all of the characters.
these short stories felt really special because for some couples, it felt so needed to see their stories continue a little further because in their own story, the endings were left a little open. alain, christoph, and luca's stories felt like the biggest example of that because the way that a time to rise ended, there was so much left hinging atthe end that i felt so disappointed at the thought of never getting to see a proper resolution for them all. what happens to alain, the reveal that's uncovered about luca, the position christoph is now put in, all of it stressed me out so much and i wished with all my heart i could see how their stories unfolded further. the first two of their stories actually hit really hard, it was very dark and really sad; i think, being a paranormal, that's something to be expected and i was really enjoying this different style of the author's writing. i liked that we got to see even further of the consequences of what happened at the end of a time to rise and alain's shift, in particular; it was really grim and almost read like a tragedy of sorts.
seeing christoph and luca be there to try to help him with his transition had a huge impact because both men care very deeply for alain, just as alain cares for them, and knowing the history that they all have with each other made the angst feel even heavier. it was so brilliant what the author was doing, so brilliant, that that's ultimately what led to my disappointment that i couldn't read even more. alain, christoph, and luca's stories end in this anthology on a note that felt like such a betrayal because like.....luca's memories of him & alain's love had been recovered. not only had his eyes been opened to the Veil and to the dark creatures of the night that exist, but at the end of a time to rise, he got his memory back of his romantic relationship with alain. when i read that reveal, my heart dropped, because it was something i toyed around with in my head; it was something i considered because there was just so much animosity between luca & alain, and for a while, i was worried it would never be confessed why they seemed to despise each other so much, why luca felt so disgusted by alain. us finding out that that hate, that disgust, stemmed from a much deeper desire that had been shielded from him to keep him alive was one of the most shocking things i ever read.
what made it even more shocking was knowing that at this point now, alain had fallen in love with christoph, and those years he spent apart from luca impacted the way he felt. he still loved luca earnestly, the grief that had been explored in a time to rise having become even deeper because the love he had lost, the love that he said didn't exist anymore, was still there. it was just that luca's memories hadn't been recovered and so he became a different person of sorts. seeing in the short stories, mentions of how this reveal changed luca was everything i wanted, but there was so much more as well. the way their last story ends felt almost cruel in that regard because it focuses on luca, and it was genuinely surprising to think there wouldn't be more to it. that's what ultimately made me more careful with my rating because i'm not quite so satisfied on the way things ended for alain, christoph, and luca; and to be quite honest, i'm not so happy about alain & christoph's romance, when luca is right there to me. that's that for now.
as for the other stories, though, i didn't realize how important it was to get to hear from these characters again because while their stories ended on quite a happy note, there were still some things to be explored that were absolutely amazing in execution. adam marrying faisal and converting to Islam, dealing with the repercussions of splitting away from America even if it had never felt quite like home to him, while not my most favorite of the bunch, still hit hard because of how lonely adam feels and the distance he's created between him and his past. he and faisal had been through a lot, and so for them to be in the spot that they're in with each other was a long time coming, and much-deserved. even then, the rift adam has between the people he knew from before was actually pretty sad, and it's another one of those things that makes me wish we could see more of the results of that--or maybe it just doesn't matter for adam, at least not now, not when he's found his family with Faisal in Saudi Arabia.
and then there was kris and behroze meeting with dawood tying them in the middle. the two have this wall split between them that's veiled by resentment, only for it to have stemmed from much a deeper and more heart-wrenching reason. honestly their stories were my most favorite out of the bunch because of how hard-hitting the quotes were. the writing in whisper was absolutely phenomenal, so i should have expected it here, but it still blew me away. i mean....i posted this excerpt on tumblr and by the gods, i will be doing so here to have as many people as possible see this because just look at it:
"Do you know the first word I learned in English? It was your name. He spoke to you in English at night, and always said your name. I thought 'Kris' meant the moon. It was the saddest word in a language I didn't know."
i found myself getting so choked up with how kris & behroze got to bond with each other, and just seeing them & dawood as this little family that had been in so much pain for long periods of time. yet here now, they have each other, and they always will.
mike & tom's story, while only being present for one chapter, still had as much of an equal impact as all the others because it was their wedding day. they're not my most favorite couple in the tal bauer universe but i'll never forget how sweet their romance was in hush. getting to see them take their vows and just get to be happy was an ending both characters rightfully deserved, and i really appreciated how the author included them in. sasha & sergey's stories on the other hand, absolutely tore me apart because they are my favorite couple of the tal bauer universe, which feels like a heavy crown to bear because there's a lot of couples to account for. but really, just like in whisper, the executive power duology had some of the most poetic and soulful writing i've ever seen and a large majority of it came from sasha & sergey and the way they talked about their love for each other. seeing them in this anthology was just as sweet, if not really emotional, because at this point in their stories, the events in stars hadn't happened yet, which feels really huge. it was nice to see a little of the time they spent together in between the events of ascendant and stars, and i'll always love how space plays a big part in these two characters because they really are epic to me.
and last but certainly not least, there was jack & ethan, the ones who started it all. before i met sasha & sergey, i was consumed by my love for this other pair and how much the odds seemed to be stacked up against them, and yet they fought so hard for each other. these two go through a lot in the executive office series and so getting to see them settle down in this anthology and just get to reminisce with each other about all the good parts of their love story and how they were brought together was very much-needed. i particularly loved getting to see a little bit more of ethan's roots and where he came from; the bits about his dad felt really special because it didn't feel like something i got to see much of in their other books, so getting to have these moments here between ethan and his dead father was really important. what was even more was how, just like how i saved this couple's story for last in my review, the author also had them get the last words in this anthology, which made me feel so so giddy.
"Mr. President. I'm with you all the way."
i think that's what made me know no matter how technical my story rating is here on goodreads, this book here is a five-star. just the fact that these stories exist in the first place, that the author took the time to explore these characters and their relationships even further was everything to me, and such a huge win. even though this anthology had already been out for over three years now, it feels like a special christmas gift to me and i cherish it a lot.
i cherish all of tal bauer's works and all his couples, because their stories really have made this year feel a little more bearable in terms of all other aspects of my life outside of reading. i would love to get to see these characters again, and with alain, christoph, and luca--as critical as i might have seemed earlier, i did love how they were included in here. even though i obviously wish for more and am sneakily crossing my fingers this isn't the end for them, for luca, i appreciate where their stories have went, and how much further they can go. i'm really glad i finally got to appreciate what this anthology is for, far more than i possibly could have when i first discovered it back in october. the timing is seriously not lost on me, and never will, and....yeah, i loved this anthology very much.
this anthology made me feel so much, it was so overwhelming. most of it was genuine love because i got the chance to revisit couples i hadn't read from in quite a bit, but there were other parts, too, that glimmered with a lot of sadness as we see these characters reflect on the events that occurred in their stories and the impacts it weighs on their shoulders now. in both cases, it feels like i went full-circle with my reading journey up to this point because when I first stumbled upon this anthology, i hadn't been familiar with three of the couples who are present. at the time, i had only really known about the couples from the executive office saga, and even then, i was mostly paying attention to sasha & sergey's stories. coming back to this in the last month of the year, after having already read almost all of tal bauer's works by now, it felt like such perfect timing. and by the gods, it was absolutely everything getting to actually enjoy this anthology for what it represented now with all of the characters.
these short stories felt really special because for some couples, it felt so needed to see their stories continue a little further because in their own story, the endings were left a little open. alain, christoph, and luca's stories felt like the biggest example of that because the way that a time to rise ended, there was so much left hinging atthe end that i felt so disappointed at the thought of never getting to see a proper resolution for them all. what happens to alain, the reveal that's uncovered about luca, the position christoph is now put in, all of it stressed me out so much and i wished with all my heart i could see how their stories unfolded further. the first two of their stories actually hit really hard, it was very dark and really sad; i think, being a paranormal, that's something to be expected and i was really enjoying this different style of the author's writing. i liked that we got to see even further of the consequences of what happened at the end of a time to rise and alain's shift, in particular; it was really grim and almost read like a tragedy of sorts.
seeing christoph and luca be there to try to help him with his transition had a huge impact because both men care very deeply for alain, just as alain cares for them, and knowing the history that they all have with each other made the angst feel even heavier. it was so brilliant what the author was doing, so brilliant, that that's ultimately what led to my disappointment that i couldn't read even more. alain, christoph, and luca's stories end in this anthology on a note that felt like such a betrayal because like.....luca's memories of him & alain's love had been recovered. not only had his eyes been opened to the Veil and to the dark creatures of the night that exist, but at the end of a time to rise, he got his memory back of his romantic relationship with alain. when i read that reveal, my heart dropped, because it was something i toyed around with in my head; it was something i considered because there was just so much animosity between luca & alain, and for a while, i was worried it would never be confessed why they seemed to despise each other so much, why luca felt so disgusted by alain. us finding out that that hate, that disgust, stemmed from a much deeper desire that had been shielded from him to keep him alive was one of the most shocking things i ever read.
what made it even more shocking was knowing that at this point now, alain had fallen in love with christoph, and those years he spent apart from luca impacted the way he felt. he still loved luca earnestly, the grief that had been explored in a time to rise having become even deeper because the love he had lost, the love that he said didn't exist anymore, was still there. it was just that luca's memories hadn't been recovered and so he became a different person of sorts. seeing in the short stories, mentions of how this reveal changed luca was everything i wanted, but there was so much more as well. the way their last story ends felt almost cruel in that regard because it focuses on luca, and it was genuinely surprising to think there wouldn't be more to it. that's what ultimately made me more careful with my rating because i'm not quite so satisfied on the way things ended for alain, christoph, and luca; and to be quite honest, i'm not so happy about alain & christoph's romance, when luca is right there to me. that's that for now.
as for the other stories, though, i didn't realize how important it was to get to hear from these characters again because while their stories ended on quite a happy note, there were still some things to be explored that were absolutely amazing in execution. adam marrying faisal and converting to Islam, dealing with the repercussions of splitting away from America even if it had never felt quite like home to him, while not my most favorite of the bunch, still hit hard because of how lonely adam feels and the distance he's created between him and his past. he and faisal had been through a lot, and so for them to be in the spot that they're in with each other was a long time coming, and much-deserved. even then, the rift adam has between the people he knew from before was actually pretty sad, and it's another one of those things that makes me wish we could see more of the results of that--or maybe it just doesn't matter for adam, at least not now, not when he's found his family with Faisal in Saudi Arabia.
and then there was kris and behroze meeting with dawood tying them in the middle. the two have this wall split between them that's veiled by resentment, only for it to have stemmed from much a deeper and more heart-wrenching reason. honestly their stories were my most favorite out of the bunch because of how hard-hitting the quotes were. the writing in whisper was absolutely phenomenal, so i should have expected it here, but it still blew me away. i mean....i posted this excerpt on tumblr and by the gods, i will be doing so here to have as many people as possible see this because just look at it:
"Do you know the first word I learned in English? It was your name. He spoke to you in English at night, and always said your name. I thought 'Kris' meant the moon. It was the saddest word in a language I didn't know."
i found myself getting so choked up with how kris & behroze got to bond with each other, and just seeing them & dawood as this little family that had been in so much pain for long periods of time. yet here now, they have each other, and they always will.
mike & tom's story, while only being present for one chapter, still had as much of an equal impact as all the others because it was their wedding day. they're not my most favorite couple in the tal bauer universe but i'll never forget how sweet their romance was in hush. getting to see them take their vows and just get to be happy was an ending both characters rightfully deserved, and i really appreciated how the author included them in. sasha & sergey's stories on the other hand, absolutely tore me apart because they are my favorite couple of the tal bauer universe, which feels like a heavy crown to bear because there's a lot of couples to account for. but really, just like in whisper, the executive power duology had some of the most poetic and soulful writing i've ever seen and a large majority of it came from sasha & sergey and the way they talked about their love for each other. seeing them in this anthology was just as sweet, if not really emotional, because at this point in their stories, the events in stars hadn't happened yet, which feels really huge. it was nice to see a little of the time they spent together in between the events of ascendant and stars, and i'll always love how space plays a big part in these two characters because they really are epic to me.
and last but certainly not least, there was jack & ethan, the ones who started it all. before i met sasha & sergey, i was consumed by my love for this other pair and how much the odds seemed to be stacked up against them, and yet they fought so hard for each other. these two go through a lot in the executive office series and so getting to see them settle down in this anthology and just get to reminisce with each other about all the good parts of their love story and how they were brought together was very much-needed. i particularly loved getting to see a little bit more of ethan's roots and where he came from; the bits about his dad felt really special because it didn't feel like something i got to see much of in their other books, so getting to have these moments here between ethan and his dead father was really important. what was even more was how, just like how i saved this couple's story for last in my review, the author also had them get the last words in this anthology, which made me feel so so giddy.
"Mr. President. I'm with you all the way."
i think that's what made me know no matter how technical my story rating is here on goodreads, this book here is a five-star. just the fact that these stories exist in the first place, that the author took the time to explore these characters and their relationships even further was everything to me, and such a huge win. even though this anthology had already been out for over three years now, it feels like a special christmas gift to me and i cherish it a lot.
i cherish all of tal bauer's works and all his couples, because their stories really have made this year feel a little more bearable in terms of all other aspects of my life outside of reading. i would love to get to see these characters again, and with alain, christoph, and luca--as critical as i might have seemed earlier, i did love how they were included in here. even though i obviously wish for more and am sneakily crossing my fingers this isn't the end for them, for luca, i appreciate where their stories have went, and how much further they can go. i'm really glad i finally got to appreciate what this anthology is for, far more than i possibly could have when i first discovered it back in october. the timing is seriously not lost on me, and never will, and....yeah, i loved this anthology very much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 9, 2019
For months (pretty much since I devoured Ascendent shortly after it came out) I've been craving my next Tal Bauer fix, and finally the waiting is at an end. (And about to begin again, alas.) During all those months, I've been wondering which of all the wonderful couples who have taken up joint residence in my heart the next book would feature, and there couldn't be a more satisfying answer than ALL of them. I loved every single one of these stories, as I love every single one of these couples and have loved every single one of the preceding books - it's pretty much impossible to pick any favourites, but if I had to, it would be Adam and Faisal, who have claimed a special place in my heart (Dear Tal, pretty please with a cherry on top will you write me a full novel about these two already? Pretty pretty please?), and Jack and Ethan, who never fail to put actual tears of joy in my eyes (The coordinates thing? Sheer perfection, and hands down my single favourite moment among all the wonderful moments in this story collection.). Now if only poor Luca could get some happiness, too... *sigh*
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June 13, 2021A must read!
I absolutely loved this. I got to catch up with all my favorite couples, and see where Jack and Ethan up, Sergey and Sasha navigating through the stars, and my favorite couple, Fasail and Adam. We also catch up with the vampires and the Swiss Guard.
This is a very satisfying read, full of romance and swoon worthy prose.
I absolutely loved this. I got to catch up with all my favorite couples, and see where Jack and Ethan up, Sergey and Sasha navigating through the stars, and my favorite couple, Fasail and Adam. We also catch up with the vampires and the Swiss Guard.
This is a very satisfying read, full of romance and swoon worthy prose.
April 4, 2019
Oh I was so excited to see everyone again! This was like the best ever! And that everybody got a happy 'ending' with no severe troubles lol. It was just perfect. I couldn't have asked for a better interlude.
March 17, 2019
Only for Tom & Mike and Dawood & Kris
April 4, 2019
So many feelings.
Totally in love with this re-visit to the “Tal Bauer” couples.
Totally in love with this re-visit to the “Tal Bauer” couples.
September 19, 2022
4,5 stars.
Loved to read about the guys again. Miss them terribly.
Loved to read about the guys again. Miss them terribly.
February 25, 2025
Mysig lite bok med små stories från de flesta av Tal Bauers böcker ❤️
February 23, 2020
4 stars
I'm only not giving this 5 stars because I have only read the Executive Office series and thus was a bit lost reading about characters from other books here.
I adored Ethan and Jacks storyline, especially the part when they went to Wyoming. It was very emotional and had me tearing up a little. Also, I've been to Wyoming and driven through the Bighorn Mountains twice so could at least slightly envision the scenery.
I really loved Kris and Dawoods storyline. Very thought-provoking. It made me interested in reading their book.
Adam and Faisals storyline was probably my favorite. Mainly because I just love those two and the setting in Saudi-Arabia and Bahrain. It also had the most interesting plot and was very emotional. I just wanted to hug Adam so much! My only complaint is that it could have had more scenes with Adam and Faisal together. I think their story has a lot of potential for another book - or two or three. :) I would really love to read more about them. And Doc, what happens with him? I don't feel like this is the end for all of them.
I was pretty lost reading Alain, Cristoph and Lucas story. Is this a middle part between two books? It felt like it. I didn't know the lore and the history and that is important in a paranormal setting. I'm not really sold on their story.
Sasha and Sergeys story I think was taking place somewhere during their own trilogy (Executive Power). I haven't started that series yet but because I know them from the Executive Office series it was easy picturing them. I really liked it especially the description of flying in the uppermost atmosphere.
Tom and Mikes wedding was sweet but because I don't know these characters and there was no background story I can't say much about it.
If you have read all the books these characters appear in than this is pretty perfect. But even so I really liked or loved 4 out of the 6 storylines.
I'm only not giving this 5 stars because I have only read the Executive Office series and thus was a bit lost reading about characters from other books here.
I adored Ethan and Jacks storyline, especially the part when they went to Wyoming. It was very emotional and had me tearing up a little. Also, I've been to Wyoming and driven through the Bighorn Mountains twice so could at least slightly envision the scenery.
I really loved Kris and Dawoods storyline. Very thought-provoking. It made me interested in reading their book.
Adam and Faisals storyline was probably my favorite. Mainly because I just love those two and the setting in Saudi-Arabia and Bahrain. It also had the most interesting plot and was very emotional. I just wanted to hug Adam so much! My only complaint is that it could have had more scenes with Adam and Faisal together. I think their story has a lot of potential for another book - or two or three. :) I would really love to read more about them. And Doc, what happens with him? I don't feel like this is the end for all of them.
I was pretty lost reading Alain, Cristoph and Lucas story. Is this a middle part between two books? It felt like it. I didn't know the lore and the history and that is important in a paranormal setting. I'm not really sold on their story.
Sasha and Sergeys story I think was taking place somewhere during their own trilogy (Executive Power). I haven't started that series yet but because I know them from the Executive Office series it was easy picturing them. I really liked it especially the description of flying in the uppermost atmosphere.
Tom and Mikes wedding was sweet but because I don't know these characters and there was no background story I can't say much about it.
If you have read all the books these characters appear in than this is pretty perfect. But even so I really liked or loved 4 out of the 6 storylines.
January 10, 2022
Fantastic
Like me do you ever read a book and wonder what happened next, what would they be doing now? Interlude: Cavatina gives another look at their lives moving on. It was great to read about Jack and Ethan again, they stole my heart in the fantastic ‘Executive Office’ and their story line here was just perfect. Adam and Faisal settle into married life and Sergei and Sasha also get a short storyline. Kris and Dawood from ‘Whisper’ learn to live together again whilst Tom and Mike plan their wedding. I haven’t read ‘A time to rise’ but these are all standalone stories and I didn’t feel like I was missing something because of that. Thank you Tal Bauer I loved this book.
Like me do you ever read a book and wonder what happened next, what would they be doing now? Interlude: Cavatina gives another look at their lives moving on. It was great to read about Jack and Ethan again, they stole my heart in the fantastic ‘Executive Office’ and their story line here was just perfect. Adam and Faisal settle into married life and Sergei and Sasha also get a short storyline. Kris and Dawood from ‘Whisper’ learn to live together again whilst Tom and Mike plan their wedding. I haven’t read ‘A time to rise’ but these are all standalone stories and I didn’t feel like I was missing something because of that. Thank you Tal Bauer I loved this book.
March 24, 2019
An absolute gem of a book when Tal Bauer writes a book its always an epic read . Adding so much detail that it feels as if your there. Connecting with these favourite characters was a treat.
Cristoph & Alain
Adam & Faisal
Tom & Mike
Sergey & Sasha
Jack & Ethan
Kris & Dawood and
Behroze, Dawood's adoptive son.
I adore the way Kris and Dawood connect and now with Behroze they will now move forward as the commitment Kris made had me in tears and in love with him more.
I could understand Kris and Behroze's thoughts .
So much more than five stars ..
Cristoph & Alain
Adam & Faisal
Tom & Mike
Sergey & Sasha
Jack & Ethan
Kris & Dawood and
Behroze, Dawood's adoptive son.
I adore the way Kris and Dawood connect and now with Behroze they will now move forward as the commitment Kris made had me in tears and in love with him more.
I could understand Kris and Behroze's thoughts .
So much more than five stars ..
April 15, 2019
I enjoyed catching up with these characters! I didn't think I'd be seeing Alain and Cristoph again, so it was nice to get an update for that verse, however sad it was (I'm still hoping for an OT3 outcome). Adam made me sad, too, but at least his ending was hopeful. Ethan and Jack predictably made me smile the widest. I love that they got a solid HEA. They deserve it after all that drama. Out of all the shorties stories, I particularly liked the one about Kris, Dawood, and Behroze. It was just so moving. And I'm with Behroze: I wouldn't be opposed to a second wedding...
March 11, 2019
I loved it!
What a great way to keep us as readers updated on our favourite characters. Tal Bauer is my favorite author and does an extremely good job at developing characters and pulling readers into their stories. I think this was a very clever way of keeping us involved. After reading one of Mr. Bauers' books the characters come so alive and reading snippets of their lives after the books end help keep them alive in our minds. Well done Mr. Bauer. Thank you!
What a great way to keep us as readers updated on our favourite characters. Tal Bauer is my favorite author and does an extremely good job at developing characters and pulling readers into their stories. I think this was a very clever way of keeping us involved. After reading one of Mr. Bauers' books the characters come so alive and reading snippets of their lives after the books end help keep them alive in our minds. Well done Mr. Bauer. Thank you!
March 21, 2019
Some of my favorites!
This was such a wonderful book & it was amazing catching up with some of my favorite characters!
I didn’t have any advanced notice that it was coming out and then I saw it, so I was really excited to get it. It’s a little look into what’s happening with each couple. I was very happy with what was going on except one. That one was pretty sad. Not going to say anymore, don’t want to ruin it.
This was such a wonderful book & it was amazing catching up with some of my favorite characters!
I didn’t have any advanced notice that it was coming out and then I saw it, so I was really excited to get it. It’s a little look into what’s happening with each couple. I was very happy with what was going on except one. That one was pretty sad. Not going to say anymore, don’t want to ruin it.
May 12, 2019
I loved catching up with all the couples. I don't want to spoil anything, so I'm not going to talk about the stories. I do recommend having read ALL of Tal's books first (trust me, you'll want to) so that you don't get any spoilers. Because of the way the book is arranged, it would be hard to read only the stories about a particular couple or world.
And now I'm just dying for more in the Time to Rise series!
And now I'm just dying for more in the Time to Rise series!
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