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Take the Edge Off
You don’t end up an ex-car thief and ex-con because you’re good at resisting temptation… and Cal Tate’s rich new boss is very tempting.
Cal has always been the bad boy lovers don’t bring home to Mom, but now he’d like someone other than a debt collector waiting for him at home. He has a legit job as a driver with his brother’s company, he’s got a doctor on the hook, and he still can’t help crawling into bed with Joseph Bailey.
Joe has never met anyone as easy in their own skin as his new driver. Or as ridiculously beautiful. He’s in London to downsize the family business… and to investigate the abusive emails that imply a dark secret around his mother’s death. But unpicking the lies he’s been told makes Joe realize he isn’t sure who is without them.
When his life falls apart, the only person he can be himself with is Cal. But with the anonymous stalker’s threats increasing, Joe worries that someone will finish the job they started over two decades ago—and end any chance for a happy future between him and Cal.
Cal has always been the bad boy lovers don’t bring home to Mom, but now he’d like someone other than a debt collector waiting for him at home. He has a legit job as a driver with his brother’s company, he’s got a doctor on the hook, and he still can’t help crawling into bed with Joseph Bailey.
Joe has never met anyone as easy in their own skin as his new driver. Or as ridiculously beautiful. He’s in London to downsize the family business… and to investigate the abusive emails that imply a dark secret around his mother’s death. But unpicking the lies he’s been told makes Joe realize he isn’t sure who is without them.
When his life falls apart, the only person he can be himself with is Cal. But with the anonymous stalker’s threats increasing, Joe worries that someone will finish the job they started over two decades ago—and end any chance for a happy future between him and Cal.
200 pages, Paperback
First published June 11, 2019
13 people are currently reading
187 people want to read
About the author
T.A. Moore
45 books390 followersTA Moore is a Northern Irish writer of romantic suspense, urban fantasy, and contemporary romance novels. A childhood in a rural, seaside town fostered in her a suspicious nature, a love of mystery, and a streak of black humour a mile wide. As her grandmother always said, ‘she’d laugh at a bad thing that one’, mind you, that was the pot calling the kettle black. TA Moore studied History, Irish mythology, English at University, mostly because she has always loved a good story. She has worked as a journalist, a finance manager, and in the arts sectors before she finally gave in to a lifelong desire to write.
Coffee, Doc Marten boots, and good friends are the essential things in life. Spiders, mayo, and heels are to be avoided.
Website: www.nevertobetold.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TA.Moores
Twitter: @tammy_moore
Coffee, Doc Marten boots, and good friends are the essential things in life. Spiders, mayo, and heels are to be avoided.
Website: www.nevertobetold.co.uk
Facebook: www.facebook.com/TA.Moores
Twitter: @tammy_moore
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Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
July 31, 2022
I tend to enjoy Moore's writing, and this was no exception. The case/mystery aspect felt a little strange to me, but it was fine, and I did enjoy the characters and their relationship. The ending overall felt a little abrupt/rushed, and I wish the author had spent a bit more time giving us a more solid/satisfactory resolution. I don't necessarily mind that it ends on a more tentative/hopeful HFN, but it just felt rushed and sloppy.
June 11, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
T.A. Moore does a great job combining romance and suspense in this story and I really enjoyed Take the Edge Off. The early focus of the book is mostly on Joe and Cal and their fledgling relationship. The attraction between them is clear from the start, but neither man really is used to opening up to a romantic partner. It takes a bit for things to move from sex to a real emotional connection, but Moore does a nice job showing what brings these men together and I enjoyed watching them fall for each other almost despite themselves. Cal has a rough past, a mother who basically abandoned him, and a history of making bad choices for short term gratification. Moore really shows us the vulnerability that is hiding underneath his tough exterior. Cal is a man who has learned not to want or expect things, and it is nice to see him realize that he has Joe’s care and affection and that there is something real between them. For his part, Joe has a history of cheating on his female partners with male hookups, not willing to admit or accept that he is gay. Being with Cal, a man who is open and honest about who he is, helps Joe move forward and acknowledge his sexuality. So the relationship end of things is nicely done here and I liked the way both of these men grow together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
T.A. Moore does a great job combining romance and suspense in this story and I really enjoyed Take the Edge Off. The early focus of the book is mostly on Joe and Cal and their fledgling relationship. The attraction between them is clear from the start, but neither man really is used to opening up to a romantic partner. It takes a bit for things to move from sex to a real emotional connection, but Moore does a nice job showing what brings these men together and I enjoyed watching them fall for each other almost despite themselves. Cal has a rough past, a mother who basically abandoned him, and a history of making bad choices for short term gratification. Moore really shows us the vulnerability that is hiding underneath his tough exterior. Cal is a man who has learned not to want or expect things, and it is nice to see him realize that he has Joe’s care and affection and that there is something real between them. For his part, Joe has a history of cheating on his female partners with male hookups, not willing to admit or accept that he is gay. Being with Cal, a man who is open and honest about who he is, helps Joe move forward and acknowledge his sexuality. So the relationship end of things is nicely done here and I liked the way both of these men grow together.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
August 15, 2023
Baby, drive the car,
bottom for me, solve crimes,
fix my parentals.
3.5 rounded down, bc when Moore works, she works, but she’s still not great.
bottom for me, solve crimes,
fix my parentals.
3.5 rounded down, bc when Moore works, she works, but she’s still not great.
December 27, 2019
DNF @ ???% (since my bookmark fell out months ago and I don't even recall where I left off.)
Oh, wow. I started reading this August 14, 2019. It's now December 26, 2019. I haven't read any of this since August. I know I lost my bookmark sometime in August. The book was lost in my room for a good two months. And at no point since the I set this aside after one or two days of reading, did I feel an urge to look for it, find where I left off, or continue reading it. I really like some of T.A. Moore's writing, it is just a shame that there is just such a huge gap in the quality of some of her books, though this one takes the cake as my least favourite.
Oh, wow. I started reading this August 14, 2019. It's now December 26, 2019. I haven't read any of this since August. I know I lost my bookmark sometime in August. The book was lost in my room for a good two months. And at no point since the I set this aside after one or two days of reading, did I feel an urge to look for it, find where I left off, or continue reading it. I really like some of T.A. Moore's writing, it is just a shame that there is just such a huge gap in the quality of some of her books, though this one takes the cake as my least favourite.
June 15, 2019
You don’t end up an ex-car thief and ex-con because you’re good at resisting temptation… and Cal Tate’s rich new boss is very tempting.
Cal has always been the bad boy lovers don’t bring home to Mom, but now he’d like someone other than a debt collector waiting for him at home. He has a legit job as a driver with his brother’s company, he’s got a doctor on the hook, and he still can’t help crawling into bed with Joseph Bailey.
Joe has never met anyone as easy in their own skin as his new driver. Or as ridiculously beautiful. He’s in London to downsize the family business… and to investigate the abusive emails that imply a dark secret around his mother’s death. But unpicking the lies he’s been told makes Joe realize he isn’t sure who is without them.
When his life falls apart, the only person he can be himself with is Cal. But with the anonymous stalker’s threats increasing, Joe worries that someone will finish the job they started over two decades ago—and end any chance for a happy future between him and Cal.
Review:
Dear T.A. Moore,
I think I have read most of the books you published ( in fact I think the only one I have not read was the duology about shifters) and usually your style works quite well for me. I love your flawed characters and usually really enjoy the chemistry between them and in that regard this book was no exception.
I liked both Joe and Cal almost from the very beginning. Of course I also had to roll my eyes and forget about any kind of proper working relationship between them because Joe was attracted to him and the attraction was mutual.
"So much for old and wrinkly. Joseph Bailey looked like he was in his twenties, and Cal could see enough of that lean, wiry body to tell there were no wrinkles there. It wasn’t such a good idea to look. All of a sudden, Cal’s collar wasn’t the only thing that felt too tight. He should have read the client file, he supposed, because this wasn’t one of the usual perma-tanned, gold-chained old gangsters who usually rocked up."
While Cal does do his driving duties for the duration of the book, they also have sex during the story and more than once. I thought sex was incredibly hot, although opinions of course differ. I even could buy emotional connection between them. However I really didn't see "being in lust" and having emotional connection transformed into being in love on the pages of the story. Frankly I would have been perfectly happy with that - in my head the whole story classifies as the beginning of their romance, however that is an incomplete description . To me the story was suspense mixed with a lot of sex and the beginning of their romance.
And boy oh boy I had problems with suspense storyline , not with the whole storyline, but with one incredible coincidence which helped Cal to finally figure out things and with the end of it. See as blurb tells you Joe came to London not only to deal with selling his father's company holdings, but also trying to figure out how his mother died and who the heck had been stalking him. All of this investigating brings up buried family secrets and puts Joe's life in a very real danger.
Of course at the end the villain is revealed . I am going to put the next part of my review which is going to be a rant really under another spoiler tags because I will be talking about the ending - not about who the villain is but about what happens to that person. I guess to an extent I will talk about the villain's identity too. I usually hate to comment on significant spoilers, but the ending is the main reason why I dropped the grade so much because I found it unsatisfying to that degree. The guys have HFN ending which worked for me, so don't worry about that part.
.
Cal has always been the bad boy lovers don’t bring home to Mom, but now he’d like someone other than a debt collector waiting for him at home. He has a legit job as a driver with his brother’s company, he’s got a doctor on the hook, and he still can’t help crawling into bed with Joseph Bailey.
Joe has never met anyone as easy in their own skin as his new driver. Or as ridiculously beautiful. He’s in London to downsize the family business… and to investigate the abusive emails that imply a dark secret around his mother’s death. But unpicking the lies he’s been told makes Joe realize he isn’t sure who is without them.
When his life falls apart, the only person he can be himself with is Cal. But with the anonymous stalker’s threats increasing, Joe worries that someone will finish the job they started over two decades ago—and end any chance for a happy future between him and Cal.
Review:
Dear T.A. Moore,
I think I have read most of the books you published ( in fact I think the only one I have not read was the duology about shifters) and usually your style works quite well for me. I love your flawed characters and usually really enjoy the chemistry between them and in that regard this book was no exception.
I liked both Joe and Cal almost from the very beginning. Of course I also had to roll my eyes and forget about any kind of proper working relationship between them because Joe was attracted to him and the attraction was mutual.
"So much for old and wrinkly. Joseph Bailey looked like he was in his twenties, and Cal could see enough of that lean, wiry body to tell there were no wrinkles there. It wasn’t such a good idea to look. All of a sudden, Cal’s collar wasn’t the only thing that felt too tight. He should have read the client file, he supposed, because this wasn’t one of the usual perma-tanned, gold-chained old gangsters who usually rocked up."
While Cal does do his driving duties for the duration of the book, they also have sex during the story and more than once. I thought sex was incredibly hot, although opinions of course differ. I even could buy emotional connection between them. However I really didn't see "being in lust" and having emotional connection transformed into being in love on the pages of the story. Frankly I would have been perfectly happy with that - in my head the whole story classifies as the beginning of their romance, however that is an incomplete description . To me the story was suspense mixed with a lot of sex and the beginning of their romance.
And boy oh boy I had problems with suspense storyline , not with the whole storyline, but with one incredible coincidence which helped Cal to finally figure out things and with the end of it. See as blurb tells you Joe came to London not only to deal with selling his father's company holdings, but also trying to figure out how his mother died and who the heck had been stalking him. All of this investigating brings up buried family secrets and puts Joe's life in a very real danger.
Of course at the end the villain is revealed . I am going to put the next part of my review which is going to be a rant really under another spoiler tags because I will be talking about the ending - not about who the villain is but about what happens to that person. I guess to an extent I will talk about the villain's identity too. I usually hate to comment on significant spoilers, but the ending is the main reason why I dropped the grade so much because I found it unsatisfying to that degree. The guys have HFN ending which worked for me, so don't worry about that part.
.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 29, 2019
Really 3.5 stars rounded up. Very well written, which is why I rounded up, but for the first time ever with a T.A. Moore book, the characters didn't work for me. As mentioned, they were well-written and realistic but I didn't really like them until about the last 20 percent of the book. Weirdly enough, for two very different characters, I had trouble keeping track of who was who, they almost blended into each other. I also felt that their relationship seemed to develop from one-night-stand to boyfriends practically over night and I can't even figure out what they really saw in each other.
June 11, 2019
I was mostly enjoying this story with just a few niggles til close to the end but I’m afraid the way the author chose to wrap up the plot canceled out another star. Too many threads were left dangling, no repercussions for the villain. It seemed as if the author wasn’t confident of how to make the book feel complete. I can’t explain without spoiling. Perhaps I’m the one missing something, as my track record with this author is inconsistent. I was seduced by the blurb but it didn’t deliver for me.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
June 23, 2019
4.25 stars
Tautly written thriller-ette. The plot itself is just a little too full of holes and coincidences to be totally convincing, but the "bad-boy-making-good meets billionaire" relationship was attractive. I do like Moore's writing, which always has an edge to it.
Edward smiled as though someone had drowned his dog and then told him to say cheese.
Tautly written thriller-ette. The plot itself is just a little too full of holes and coincidences to be totally convincing, but the "bad-boy-making-good meets billionaire" relationship was attractive. I do like Moore's writing, which always has an edge to it.
Edward smiled as though someone had drowned his dog and then told him to say cheese.
Read
May 31, 2019Told alternately from dual POVs (of Cal Tate’s and Joe Bailey’s), TAKE THE EDGE OFF revealed long kept secret that affected quite a number of people. Decades later, when Joe poking around with questions, it sparked jealousy and resentment long dormant. The resulting incident and ultimate confrontation almost caused fatalities.
I swang from yay and nay throughout reading this standalone. There were times I wasn’t sure whether I liked Cal and Joe, then in the next breath cheering either of them for a well-placed sharp repartee. Many things were going on at the same time yet didn’t hold enough pith to follow through, the thread seemed erratic. Joe was implied as a colossal jerk hated by many but I didn’t see that in his character. At least not enough. He also had issue with his father - again, being described as something something not really nice - but for all the worry how his father would retaliate it was all but an empty threats as there was no hint whatsoever on the retaliation. It was all rather one-sided to me.
The highlight for me was the relationship between Cal and his brother. El was the only person who thought better of Cal, even when Cal wasn’t sure of himself. Cal at least got sufficient space to narrate his background story and even some sort of closure to his own “issue.” His steamy affair with Joe didn’t feel to have much substance tbh, other than for sake of hotness itself. Call me picky, but I just felt like the budding romance could be tweaked a little to make it more believable (instead of the rushed love vibe it got).
Now on to the series of riddle that was Joe’s stalker. The way it was handled frustrated me no end. I got that Joe wanted to keep the knowledge from his minder (uhm, bodyguard). But ...coincidences? Hello! The man was supposed to be some sort of troubleshooter. I would think that profession came with high awareness on his surrounding! And wth his supposedly know-it-all bodyguard slash stand-in parent did about Joe’s protection? Even without Joe shared his problem, I expected him to anticipate any harm to came Joe’s way.
Finally, I’m on the fence with how the whole past colliding unfolded. While I understand the familial reason behind the decision, it still felt too much like sitting on a powder keg! This review sounded like a rant, but I just couldn’t help it. I like parts of the book fine, but some other parts was GAH moments from one to another. In the end, I guess it’s to each their own - other readers might love this book, but I’m still undecided. Even now.
Copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
I swang from yay and nay throughout reading this standalone. There were times I wasn’t sure whether I liked Cal and Joe, then in the next breath cheering either of them for a well-placed sharp repartee. Many things were going on at the same time yet didn’t hold enough pith to follow through, the thread seemed erratic. Joe was implied as a colossal jerk hated by many but I didn’t see that in his character. At least not enough. He also had issue with his father - again, being described as something something not really nice - but for all the worry how his father would retaliate it was all but an empty threats as there was no hint whatsoever on the retaliation. It was all rather one-sided to me.
The highlight for me was the relationship between Cal and his brother. El was the only person who thought better of Cal, even when Cal wasn’t sure of himself. Cal at least got sufficient space to narrate his background story and even some sort of closure to his own “issue.” His steamy affair with Joe didn’t feel to have much substance tbh, other than for sake of hotness itself. Call me picky, but I just felt like the budding romance could be tweaked a little to make it more believable (instead of the rushed love vibe it got).
Now on to the series of riddle that was Joe’s stalker. The way it was handled frustrated me no end. I got that Joe wanted to keep the knowledge from his minder (uhm, bodyguard). But ...coincidences? Hello! The man was supposed to be some sort of troubleshooter. I would think that profession came with high awareness on his surrounding! And wth his supposedly know-it-all bodyguard slash stand-in parent did about Joe’s protection? Even without Joe shared his problem, I expected him to anticipate any harm to came Joe’s way.
Finally, I’m on the fence with how the whole past colliding unfolded. While I understand the familial reason behind the decision, it still felt too much like sitting on a powder keg! This review sounded like a rant, but I just couldn’t help it. I like parts of the book fine, but some other parts was GAH moments from one to another. In the end, I guess it’s to each their own - other readers might love this book, but I’m still undecided. Even now.
Copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2019
Reviewed by Jenn for Diverse Reader
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I was so excited when I read the blurb for Take The Edge Off by TA Moore. I always enjoy a good opposites attract/wrong side of the tracks sort of relationship. It’s so interesting seeing two seemingly very different people come together. Cal Tate and Joseph Bailey manage to do this quite nicely.
Cal is a bad boy, an ex-con working for his brother doing of all things…being a driver. The company is his family’s legacy and Cal’s latest chance at going legit. And he’s trying, he really is. He goes on a date with a doctor, he knows he needs some stability. When the date with the doc gets interrupted by his brother for an important job, an important client…Cal goes. He never could have expected what waits for him when he meets Joe Bailey.
Joe Bailey is in London on business, at least officially. Unofficially, he’s looking into his mother’s death. Joe knows there is more to the story than his father has told him, and he’s determined to get to the truth. When Joe meets Cal, he’s determined to get him too. The two fall into bed quickly and neither are prepared to actually feel anything. Joe tried to treat Cal just as he would any other employee, but it’s not easy. While Cal has been hired to drive, he finds himself in the role of bodyguard a bit as well. He really wants to guard Joe’s body, he really just wants Joe. As the two get closer to the truth, lies and danger surround them. Working together, they discover all the secrets of the past and maybe even of their hearts.
I so thoroughly enjoyed this book! Call is a smart mouth; the sexual tension is so potent. And the mystery really keeps things interesting. I love Joe and Cal together in all their situations, they just work. Such a great read, one that keeps you entertained the whole way through!
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
I was so excited when I read the blurb for Take The Edge Off by TA Moore. I always enjoy a good opposites attract/wrong side of the tracks sort of relationship. It’s so interesting seeing two seemingly very different people come together. Cal Tate and Joseph Bailey manage to do this quite nicely.
Cal is a bad boy, an ex-con working for his brother doing of all things…being a driver. The company is his family’s legacy and Cal’s latest chance at going legit. And he’s trying, he really is. He goes on a date with a doctor, he knows he needs some stability. When the date with the doc gets interrupted by his brother for an important job, an important client…Cal goes. He never could have expected what waits for him when he meets Joe Bailey.
Joe Bailey is in London on business, at least officially. Unofficially, he’s looking into his mother’s death. Joe knows there is more to the story than his father has told him, and he’s determined to get to the truth. When Joe meets Cal, he’s determined to get him too. The two fall into bed quickly and neither are prepared to actually feel anything. Joe tried to treat Cal just as he would any other employee, but it’s not easy. While Cal has been hired to drive, he finds himself in the role of bodyguard a bit as well. He really wants to guard Joe’s body, he really just wants Joe. As the two get closer to the truth, lies and danger surround them. Working together, they discover all the secrets of the past and maybe even of their hearts.
I so thoroughly enjoyed this book! Call is a smart mouth; the sexual tension is so potent. And the mystery really keeps things interesting. I love Joe and Cal together in all their situations, they just work. Such a great read, one that keeps you entertained the whole way through!
May 28, 2019
Joseph "Joe" Bailey is in London to sell off the family owned businesses there. He's also there to find out information on his dead mother. He's recently ended his engagement and still in the closet but just about ready to step out.
Caleb "Cal" Tate is an ex-car thief/ex-con hired by his brother El to drive Joe around while he's in London. He's gay and comfortably out.
I'll start by saying I really liked this book. I read it all the way through without having to put it down. That being said I can't really say why I liked it. Everyone (and I mean everyone) is lying to one or all the people they meet, whether it's lying outright or by omission. There's not one person in this book that has their life in order. Everyone should be seeing a therapist. The romance between Cal and Joe is your standard two people of different lifestyles meet and slowly fall in love. The resolution of the stalker/attempted murderer is lame. (Letting the stalker/attempted murderer got absolutely free. No jail or psychiatric help). The book could have a sequel where Joe ends up dead because he is a wimp that makes bad choices (ie:stalker). I'm waffling between a 3 & 4 because I did really like it but it is a really messed up book. I'll leave the 4 stars for now.
ARC given for an honest review.
Caleb "Cal" Tate is an ex-car thief/ex-con hired by his brother El to drive Joe around while he's in London. He's gay and comfortably out.
I'll start by saying I really liked this book. I read it all the way through without having to put it down. That being said I can't really say why I liked it. Everyone (and I mean everyone) is lying to one or all the people they meet, whether it's lying outright or by omission. There's not one person in this book that has their life in order. Everyone should be seeing a therapist. The romance between Cal and Joe is your standard two people of different lifestyles meet and slowly fall in love. The resolution of the stalker/attempted murderer is lame. (Letting the stalker/attempted murderer got absolutely free. No jail or psychiatric help). The book could have a sequel where Joe ends up dead because he is a wimp that makes bad choices (ie:stalker). I'm waffling between a 3 & 4 because I did really like it but it is a really messed up book. I'll leave the 4 stars for now.
ARC given for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2019
Take the Edge Off really drew me in from the very beginning, I loved Cal from the word go. Got to admit that I didn't feel the same about Joe, he made some incredibly dodgy decisions during the story, which had me scratching my head. For example, couldn't understand his decision regarding the stalker situation 🤔
However, it's a good read, with some twists and turns. I loved how the relationship between Cal and Joe developed and played out. A well written mystery, which made for a decent read. 3.5 stars.
However, it's a good read, with some twists and turns. I loved how the relationship between Cal and Joe developed and played out. A well written mystery, which made for a decent read. 3.5 stars.
June 14, 2019
Hello twists and turns, how are you? I do enjoy T.A. Moore’s books. I wish this one had evened out the time spent on each twist though. The ending felt a bit rushed and the middle felt a bit long. I wonder if there will be a sequel, it almost feels like there could be.
January 2, 2023
⭐️3.5⭐️
My rating system
1 Did not like it
2 It was okay
3 I liked/enjoyed it
4 I Loved it
5 It was amazing!
My rating system
1 Did not like it
2 It was okay
3 I liked/enjoyed it
4 I Loved it
5 It was amazing!
April 27, 2025
Take The Edge Off isn’t the best in terms of storytelling, but 4 stars because I love Moore’s characters. Cal Tate is driving for his brother El, who took over the Limo and car service Evade Inc. It was their grandad’s business, and granddad apparently catered to some sketchy clientele because Cal grew up getting blood stains out of the upholstery. El inherited not only the business, but grandad’s “legacy clients”. When El took over he made the company legit but: “They still owed the old guard, though. Or the old bastards thought they did, and that was basically the same thing”.
Cal, the younger brother has tended towards being a little impulsive “I don’t really do second thoughts,” he said. “Ask my brother. Half the time I don’t even think about it once.” Which is why he’s trying to get his life in order, trying to avoid car heists, more jail time, and dangerous men and impulsive hook ups with his new employer. Well actually he didn’t try to avoid the last one at all. Joe Bailey is across the pond from America settling business for his father’s company. Since he’s been on the receiving end of some anonymous hate mail, his head of security (the legacy client) engaged the services of Evade.
Edward, who’s more like a father to Joe than an employee, does not appreciate Cal’s obvious appreciation for Joe. He’d like nothing better than for the very gay Joe to remain closeted and reconcile with his former fiancé. It takes Cal and Joe awhile to get from casual sex to dating and you’re my boyfriend. Literally it takes the entire book. Part of the problem is Cal is starting to realize that he does want more than quickie hook ups but it’s not easy being a struggling ex-con with self-esteem issues: “People like Joseph Bailey didn’t take people like Cal out for dinner and the opera. The only way he’d take Cal to either would be so he didn’t have to wait for valet parking”.
Joe for his part was a rich man who grew up from being a rich kid. A rich kid with a dead mother, a father who had no time for him and the strict edict to do nothing to attract attention or notoriety of any kind. Joe’s played by the rules his whole life but he’s tired of it. He’s gay and he doesn’t want to marry Kristen. He wants to solve the mystery of what happened to his mother since the only thing people around will tell him is “tragic accident”, and he really likes hooking up with his new driver. Turns out he just really likes his driver.
The characterizations and interactions between Cal and Joe and even the side characters are thoroughly enjoyable. The mystery surrounding Joe’s mother and his anonymous stalker are the weakest part of the story. Semi-spoiler – the whole Rosie/Daisy thing with the “I think I’ve taken enough from her, even if I didn’t mean to.”; and the family is family so kumbaya – just No. I can not believe Cal didn’t rap him upside the head for that one.
Cal, the younger brother has tended towards being a little impulsive “I don’t really do second thoughts,” he said. “Ask my brother. Half the time I don’t even think about it once.” Which is why he’s trying to get his life in order, trying to avoid car heists, more jail time, and dangerous men and impulsive hook ups with his new employer. Well actually he didn’t try to avoid the last one at all. Joe Bailey is across the pond from America settling business for his father’s company. Since he’s been on the receiving end of some anonymous hate mail, his head of security (the legacy client) engaged the services of Evade.
Edward, who’s more like a father to Joe than an employee, does not appreciate Cal’s obvious appreciation for Joe. He’d like nothing better than for the very gay Joe to remain closeted and reconcile with his former fiancé. It takes Cal and Joe awhile to get from casual sex to dating and you’re my boyfriend. Literally it takes the entire book. Part of the problem is Cal is starting to realize that he does want more than quickie hook ups but it’s not easy being a struggling ex-con with self-esteem issues: “People like Joseph Bailey didn’t take people like Cal out for dinner and the opera. The only way he’d take Cal to either would be so he didn’t have to wait for valet parking”.
Joe for his part was a rich man who grew up from being a rich kid. A rich kid with a dead mother, a father who had no time for him and the strict edict to do nothing to attract attention or notoriety of any kind. Joe’s played by the rules his whole life but he’s tired of it. He’s gay and he doesn’t want to marry Kristen. He wants to solve the mystery of what happened to his mother since the only thing people around will tell him is “tragic accident”, and he really likes hooking up with his new driver. Turns out he just really likes his driver.
The characterizations and interactions between Cal and Joe and even the side characters are thoroughly enjoyable. The mystery surrounding Joe’s mother and his anonymous stalker are the weakest part of the story. Semi-spoiler – the whole Rosie/Daisy thing with the “I think I’ve taken enough from her, even if I didn’t mean to.”; and the family is family so kumbaya – just No. I can not believe Cal didn’t rap him upside the head for that one.
June 12, 2019
I asked for and was provided a copy of this book to read and review.
Take the Edge Off starts out with Cal, and ex-con, having dinner with a nice but boring doctor. How do I know it was boring? He took a call from his brother to be a driver for a special legacy client, and left the good boring doctor at the table eating a nice dinner. What Cal got, when he got to the exclusive hotel, was an eyeful of his very attractive client, Joseph Bailey. Joseph Bailey reminds Cal he is paying for 24/7 service. And to ensure prompt service, Cal will be living onsite in the hotel suite. Joe tests Cal and about the 24/7 service, and both men can't fight the spark of attraction. Both Joe and Cal ruminate if the lust at first sight is the spark of something bigger or just a diversion from the personal issues they need to solve. Long ago secrets rise up to haunt them both, and in some cases, has murderous intent.
This story begins with a cryptic jumble that takes its time to reveal meaning. I enjoyed reading the story as it unfolded, how each character's role was not as it seemed in unraveling many mysteries. I also like how both Cal and Joe fight the growing attraction between them, only to find they have other more important things to fend off than their own self doubts.
Play list
I could not resist a few songs from the Fast and the Furious series of movies playing in my head as I read the book:
Go Hard or Go Home by Wiz Khalifa and Iggy Azalea,
How Bad Do You Want It by Sevyn Streeter,
Loose Wires by Kenna,
And a few outside of the soundtracks:
London Calling by The Clash,
S.O.B by Nathaniel Ratelift & the Night Sweats,
As Long As you Love Me by Justin Bieber featuring Big Sean)
Enjoy!
Take the Edge Off starts out with Cal, and ex-con, having dinner with a nice but boring doctor. How do I know it was boring? He took a call from his brother to be a driver for a special legacy client, and left the good boring doctor at the table eating a nice dinner. What Cal got, when he got to the exclusive hotel, was an eyeful of his very attractive client, Joseph Bailey. Joseph Bailey reminds Cal he is paying for 24/7 service. And to ensure prompt service, Cal will be living onsite in the hotel suite. Joe tests Cal and about the 24/7 service, and both men can't fight the spark of attraction. Both Joe and Cal ruminate if the lust at first sight is the spark of something bigger or just a diversion from the personal issues they need to solve. Long ago secrets rise up to haunt them both, and in some cases, has murderous intent.
This story begins with a cryptic jumble that takes its time to reveal meaning. I enjoyed reading the story as it unfolded, how each character's role was not as it seemed in unraveling many mysteries. I also like how both Cal and Joe fight the growing attraction between them, only to find they have other more important things to fend off than their own self doubts.
Play list
I could not resist a few songs from the Fast and the Furious series of movies playing in my head as I read the book:
Go Hard or Go Home by Wiz Khalifa and Iggy Azalea,
How Bad Do You Want It by Sevyn Streeter,
Loose Wires by Kenna,
And a few outside of the soundtracks:
London Calling by The Clash,
S.O.B by Nathaniel Ratelift & the Night Sweats,
As Long As you Love Me by Justin Bieber featuring Big Sean)
Enjoy!
June 17, 2019
3.5 stars
A man looking for his past can find a better future instead.
Cal Tate knows his new boss means trouble. The very rich, extremely sexy Joe pushes all of Cal’s right buttons, but being an ex-convict whose only chance at a job is thanks to the generosity of his ever forgiving brother, Cal knows he cannot mess his last opportunity at redemption. If only he could resist Joe...
Joe Bailey knows he is living a lie. Not only by hiding his sexuality. He knows there is something his father never told him about his mother, and he is determined to find the truth. Even at the risk of his own life. Cal is only a distraction, somebody he’ll soon leave behind… or will he?
I have mixed feelings about this book. As a general rule, I do enjoy TA Moore’s books a lot. But… Although I liked both main characters (specially Caleb, I found his background and personality really intriguing), and the mystery surrounding Joe was entertaining, their relationship does not seem solid enough to me. I have the feeling their bond is not deep enough, it is only based on physical attraction, there is nothing in the story which makes me believe that they are going to last. That’s why their HEA feels like a HFN, with a not very promising future ahead, from my point of view. Besides, once the mystery is solved, what happens to the culprit () at the end seems completely unreasonable to me.
Anyway, the story is really well written and entertaining as always. And worth your time, that’s for sure
A man looking for his past can find a better future instead.
Cal Tate knows his new boss means trouble. The very rich, extremely sexy Joe pushes all of Cal’s right buttons, but being an ex-convict whose only chance at a job is thanks to the generosity of his ever forgiving brother, Cal knows he cannot mess his last opportunity at redemption. If only he could resist Joe...
Joe Bailey knows he is living a lie. Not only by hiding his sexuality. He knows there is something his father never told him about his mother, and he is determined to find the truth. Even at the risk of his own life. Cal is only a distraction, somebody he’ll soon leave behind… or will he?
I have mixed feelings about this book. As a general rule, I do enjoy TA Moore’s books a lot. But… Although I liked both main characters (specially Caleb, I found his background and personality really intriguing), and the mystery surrounding Joe was entertaining, their relationship does not seem solid enough to me. I have the feeling their bond is not deep enough, it is only based on physical attraction, there is nothing in the story which makes me believe that they are going to last. That’s why their HEA feels like a HFN, with a not very promising future ahead, from my point of view. Besides, once the mystery is solved, what happens to the culprit () at the end seems completely unreasonable to me.
Anyway, the story is really well written and entertaining as always. And worth your time, that’s for sure
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 15, 2019
This book is told from alternative POV, between the two main characters. Cal Tate is an ex-thief turned driver. Joe Bailey is a business man seeking answers to parts of his past that have always been a mystery. The answers to these questions spark old resentment to come to the forefront and proves to almost deadly in its answers.
This book was so close to being perfect for my reading tastes, but it slipped up in a few minor details. The ending, with how the villian was dealt with and how quickly the whole thing was cleared up was unsatisfying to read when you've been dragged in to a story only for it not be the way you wanted. I also found the beginning a little difficult to get in to, with the feeling of just being thrown in to a story without clear details on the characters and the roles they were taking.
However, if you ignore these two niggling issues this book was fantastic. The characters individually as well as together were well created and interested to read. It had good pacing throughout and it kept me entertained. I read this book in one sitting, so it was a good length at 194 pages.
Overall, a fantastic read and I would recommend to anyone that likes this type of book.
Reviewed by Sarah from Alpha Book Club
This book was so close to being perfect for my reading tastes, but it slipped up in a few minor details. The ending, with how the villian was dealt with and how quickly the whole thing was cleared up was unsatisfying to read when you've been dragged in to a story only for it not be the way you wanted. I also found the beginning a little difficult to get in to, with the feeling of just being thrown in to a story without clear details on the characters and the roles they were taking.
However, if you ignore these two niggling issues this book was fantastic. The characters individually as well as together were well created and interested to read. It had good pacing throughout and it kept me entertained. I read this book in one sitting, so it was a good length at 194 pages.
Overall, a fantastic read and I would recommend to anyone that likes this type of book.
Reviewed by Sarah from Alpha Book Club
June 10, 2019
Take the edge off by TA Moore was quite an enjoyable read. Main characters are nicely written and rounded, and their motivations are easy to understand. Cal struggles to stay on the right side of the line was real and well described - however, his previous lifestyle could've been described as more tempting, I guess. I liked that Cal was ready to cross the line to help Joe, even if at that moment Joe was rather stubborn and not very nice (actually I'd wanted to use another word, but...:P)
Joe was interesting and I was really keeping fingers crossed that the answers will be different. At very least he foud love and that matters too.
Background characters were okayish, however much less developed. I can't say much about Cal's brother, Eli, apart from that I'd like to read more about him.
I didn't like Kristen very much, and could not sympathize with her at all - and I am not sure if it was the goal or not.
Edward is another story - I was angry with him for about half of the book, but then I understood him better. Still angry, but less so and more understanding
I liked the mystery that Joe was trying to solve, even though the conclusion wasn't all that surprising (but it wasn't easy to predict either).
The romance developed fast and I had the feeling it was a bit too fast but I still was able to enjoy it.
Overall: a good, entertaining book that I've read in one sitting.
Joe was interesting and I was really keeping fingers crossed that the answers will be different. At very least he foud love and that matters too.
Background characters were okayish, however much less developed. I can't say much about Cal's brother, Eli, apart from that I'd like to read more about him.
I didn't like Kristen very much, and could not sympathize with her at all - and I am not sure if it was the goal or not.
Edward is another story - I was angry with him for about half of the book, but then I understood him better. Still angry, but less so and more understanding
I liked the mystery that Joe was trying to solve, even though the conclusion wasn't all that surprising (but it wasn't easy to predict either).
The romance developed fast and I had the feeling it was a bit too fast but I still was able to enjoy it.
Overall: a good, entertaining book that I've read in one sitting.
June 12, 2019
I received an advanced copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Rating: 3.5 stars
I really enjoyed reading TA Moore’s newest book! “Take the Edge Off” is a great blend of romance, mystery, and action that kept me enthralled until the end. I loved both the leads! I loved Cal and Joseph’s banter and chemistry, as well as how both characters had substance beyond the “rich boy, poor boy” tropes. They were great together! I also loved Cal’s brother El and would love to see more of him. Also, the mystery in the book, Joe finding out the truth about his mother, was very well done. It kept me on my toes and guessing the entire book, and I was honestly surprised when the truth finally came out.
My one big issue with the book was the pacing. I felt it was a little fast. In my opinion, while the interactions between Cal and Joe were great, the plot didn’t allow them enough time for me to feel that their developing feelings made sense. However, this didn’t really detract from my enjoyment of the book! I also wished we got more background on Cal. We get a little, but I felt it was an aspect of his character that got brushed over a bit.
Overall, this book was a joy to read! I absolutely loved the characters, the plot, and especially the mystery. I was hooked from the very beginning. If you love a good mystery, amazing action, a couple that clicks, and a dash of redemption, this book is for you!
Rating: 3.5 stars
I really enjoyed reading TA Moore’s newest book! “Take the Edge Off” is a great blend of romance, mystery, and action that kept me enthralled until the end. I loved both the leads! I loved Cal and Joseph’s banter and chemistry, as well as how both characters had substance beyond the “rich boy, poor boy” tropes. They were great together! I also loved Cal’s brother El and would love to see more of him. Also, the mystery in the book, Joe finding out the truth about his mother, was very well done. It kept me on my toes and guessing the entire book, and I was honestly surprised when the truth finally came out.
My one big issue with the book was the pacing. I felt it was a little fast. In my opinion, while the interactions between Cal and Joe were great, the plot didn’t allow them enough time for me to feel that their developing feelings made sense. However, this didn’t really detract from my enjoyment of the book! I also wished we got more background on Cal. We get a little, but I felt it was an aspect of his character that got brushed over a bit.
Overall, this book was a joy to read! I absolutely loved the characters, the plot, and especially the mystery. I was hooked from the very beginning. If you love a good mystery, amazing action, a couple that clicks, and a dash of redemption, this book is for you!
June 10, 2019
Take the Edge Off is a romance/mystery that keeps you guessing until the very end.
Joe Bailey is a rich business man’s closeted son. Joe is sent to London to tie up loose ends of the business, escorted by his father’s most trusted security man. A driver is hired to accompany them as well.
Cal Tate is an ex-con ex-car-thief and perhaps just the bit of rough Joe needs. Cal is convinced that’s all he’ll ever be to Joe, but they are falling for each other during Joe’s time in London. While in London Joe is trying to wrap up some business but is also pursuing the mystery of his dead mother. The mystery is added to with the presence of a malevolent stalker who is trying desperately to injure or kill Joe. While trying to finish his business and deal with his stalker, Joe starts to fall for his hard scrabble driver with a shady past. Can this love be real, or is it just a quick really hot affair?
I quite enjoyed this book, although the characters are a little tough to warm up to, but by the end you’re rooting for them to make it. The mystery of Joe’s past is strung out until nearly the end,and it turns out that Cal’s family is involved in a tangential way to the mystery. Once into the meat of the book it’s hard to put down. I found the ending to be quite satisfying as well. I would heartily recommend this book.
Joe Bailey is a rich business man’s closeted son. Joe is sent to London to tie up loose ends of the business, escorted by his father’s most trusted security man. A driver is hired to accompany them as well.
Cal Tate is an ex-con ex-car-thief and perhaps just the bit of rough Joe needs. Cal is convinced that’s all he’ll ever be to Joe, but they are falling for each other during Joe’s time in London. While in London Joe is trying to wrap up some business but is also pursuing the mystery of his dead mother. The mystery is added to with the presence of a malevolent stalker who is trying desperately to injure or kill Joe. While trying to finish his business and deal with his stalker, Joe starts to fall for his hard scrabble driver with a shady past. Can this love be real, or is it just a quick really hot affair?
I quite enjoyed this book, although the characters are a little tough to warm up to, but by the end you’re rooting for them to make it. The mystery of Joe’s past is strung out until nearly the end,and it turns out that Cal’s family is involved in a tangential way to the mystery. Once into the meat of the book it’s hard to put down. I found the ending to be quite satisfying as well. I would heartily recommend this book.
June 7, 2019
Three and a half stars for Take the Edge off. This is the first book from TA Moore I've read, and I can say I enjoy her writing style. She uses descriptive words and imagery that makes me feel like I am right there with the characters. The banter between the characters and their family members were well written, and funny.
The plot development could have been better. We were dropped into the middle of a story with characters I would love to learn more about. I'm hoping this isn't a stand alone story, because I want to see more of how the relationship develops between Joe and Cal. Instead, the story is more of what happens in the course of a few weeks. I want learn of their future, if there is one, and what happens after they both go home. The ending was abrupt, and felt rushed. Is Cal still driving Joe? Did Joe ever speak to his father? Are Cal and his brother El still running their business, or did Cal leave to pursue Joe? Is Cal ever going to get his puppy? Please TA Moore, I need more Cal!!
Overall, I enjoyed this story. There was smoking hot scenes in a night club that left me fanning myself. There were also moments of shared tenderness between them that I want to see more of in the future.
The plot development could have been better. We were dropped into the middle of a story with characters I would love to learn more about. I'm hoping this isn't a stand alone story, because I want to see more of how the relationship develops between Joe and Cal. Instead, the story is more of what happens in the course of a few weeks. I want learn of their future, if there is one, and what happens after they both go home. The ending was abrupt, and felt rushed. Is Cal still driving Joe? Did Joe ever speak to his father? Are Cal and his brother El still running their business, or did Cal leave to pursue Joe? Is Cal ever going to get his puppy? Please TA Moore, I need more Cal!!
Overall, I enjoyed this story. There was smoking hot scenes in a night club that left me fanning myself. There were also moments of shared tenderness between them that I want to see more of in the future.
June 11, 2019
T.A Moore did it again with a thoroughly enjoyable novel.
Cal Tate is a man who is given a second chance after spending a year in jail. He is a driver with his brother’s company and is given the job to drive Joe Bailey for the month.
Joe Bailey is a young man from the States who comes to England to wrap business up for his father who is ill. He has the ulterior motive of trying to figure out what happened to his mother, whom people had told him died when he was younger.
Sparks explode when Joe and Cal meet for the first time and they cannot keep their hands off each other. But neither one believe that the other will want to keep them. Cal because he’s an screw up and thinks he’s one more notch on Joe’s belt. Joe because he doesn’t want to come out of the closet and create a stir
Between the sheets and in the car, Joe and Cal have to deal with their feelings as well as the stalker out to kill Joe.
Moore does a masterful job leading everyone around and dropping red herrings as we spend the book, trying to figure out the mystery of Joe’s mom, how Cal is connected as well as the stalker.
The writing style is fluid and leaves you hanging off every page. You want to see the two men connect despite everything in the way. It’s a roller coaster ride of mystery and emotions.
Cal Tate is a man who is given a second chance after spending a year in jail. He is a driver with his brother’s company and is given the job to drive Joe Bailey for the month.
Joe Bailey is a young man from the States who comes to England to wrap business up for his father who is ill. He has the ulterior motive of trying to figure out what happened to his mother, whom people had told him died when he was younger.
Sparks explode when Joe and Cal meet for the first time and they cannot keep their hands off each other. But neither one believe that the other will want to keep them. Cal because he’s an screw up and thinks he’s one more notch on Joe’s belt. Joe because he doesn’t want to come out of the closet and create a stir
Between the sheets and in the car, Joe and Cal have to deal with their feelings as well as the stalker out to kill Joe.
Moore does a masterful job leading everyone around and dropping red herrings as we spend the book, trying to figure out the mystery of Joe’s mom, how Cal is connected as well as the stalker.
The writing style is fluid and leaves you hanging off every page. You want to see the two men connect despite everything in the way. It’s a roller coaster ride of mystery and emotions.
June 5, 2019
I love Cal Tate! He is irreverent and snarky. If he could just resist the adrenaline rush of fast cars and bad boys….
When Cal is working as a driver for his brother, a last ditch effort to turn his life around, he has no idea how much his life is going to change when he picks up Joseph Bailey. These two have such amazing on page chemistry. Watching the two men dance around each other as they figure out what is behind the threats on Joe’s life is such a pleasure. Moore has an uncanny ability to get the reader invested in the story so quickly. Before you know it you are sitting up and biting your lips and holy crap is it really 3 in the morning, but I have to finish this and WHAT JUST HAPPENED!! This book is a great example of this. There were so many twists and turns in this narrative. Combined with the super hot romance, this is a must read! My only disappointment is that this is a stand-alone novel. I loved these characters and wouldn’t mind seeing them again.
When Cal is working as a driver for his brother, a last ditch effort to turn his life around, he has no idea how much his life is going to change when he picks up Joseph Bailey. These two have such amazing on page chemistry. Watching the two men dance around each other as they figure out what is behind the threats on Joe’s life is such a pleasure. Moore has an uncanny ability to get the reader invested in the story so quickly. Before you know it you are sitting up and biting your lips and holy crap is it really 3 in the morning, but I have to finish this and WHAT JUST HAPPENED!! This book is a great example of this. There were so many twists and turns in this narrative. Combined with the super hot romance, this is a must read! My only disappointment is that this is a stand-alone novel. I loved these characters and wouldn’t mind seeing them again.
June 11, 2019
I have recently found T A Moore and I couldn’t be happier! This newest only makes me know I chose wisely! Again Ms. Moore has built a world and such wonderful characters in her newest Take the Edge Off.
Joseph Bailey is in London to downsize his family business and requires a driver. Enter Cal Tate. This is not a rich boy and poor boy tale as our author gives both men substance, and a good storyline….The fire between them is just the icing on the cake.
Cal Tate has been a bad boy all his life…He has skirted his way thru life thumbing his nose at the law with stealing fast cars and living the life until his best friend gave him up and he was jailed. His brother has given him a legitimate job, his last chance, as a driver for the company he owns.
Cal and Joe are exact opposites but that doesn’t stop the red hot appeal between them.
Nothing in this story feels rushed, and now the extra mystery that Joe’s life evokes gives us an edgier story. Thank you Ms Moore!
Joseph Bailey is in London to downsize his family business and requires a driver. Enter Cal Tate. This is not a rich boy and poor boy tale as our author gives both men substance, and a good storyline….The fire between them is just the icing on the cake.
Cal Tate has been a bad boy all his life…He has skirted his way thru life thumbing his nose at the law with stealing fast cars and living the life until his best friend gave him up and he was jailed. His brother has given him a legitimate job, his last chance, as a driver for the company he owns.
Cal and Joe are exact opposites but that doesn’t stop the red hot appeal between them.
Nothing in this story feels rushed, and now the extra mystery that Joe’s life evokes gives us an edgier story. Thank you Ms Moore!
June 15, 2019
This just worked for me on all levels. Cal is a bad boy with a good heart, enough said. Joe is a rich jerk who knows it and feels bad about it, sometimes. Edward's keeping secrets for Harry, whom we never meet but I can't say I'd like very much. And there are women who are mostly in the background but are what the story moves around, the mystery of who, what and why. There are plenty of questions, especially about who is attacking Joe and why. But when Joe and Cal are alone together, they fit each other better than you'd think opposite bookends would. In his favor, Cal seems to have more smiles than most people do shoes, and they all seem to work for him. In Joe's favor, he's not always above an apology. The two don't seem to realize or maybe want to acknowledge just how quickly and strongly they bond. Their evolving relationship, all the questions raised, and a steady pace kept me reading and thoroughly enjoying it.
September 25, 2019
I have a thing for badboys so I couldn't help wanting to give this one a try as I was browsing through T.A. Moore's works. And, well, it was perhaps not quite what I wanted it to be, but it wasn't bad. I enjoyed the characters, setting, and general feel of the story, but it didn't feel particularly... solid? I can't really explain it.
I did like the characters, though, and enjoyed the book overall. I am SUCH a sucker for characters like Cal, but I really enjoyed getting to know Joe as well. They had a very interesting dynamic and I loved how they interacted.
As for the plot, well, it was exciting but also kind of predictable? I figured it out pretty early and then had to wait for the characters to catch up. There were also some things that I... well, have questions about, but they're pretty minor.
So yeah. A good book, but not quite what I wanted. Even if there were things that didn't quite mesh with me, I did enjoy it.
I did like the characters, though, and enjoyed the book overall. I am SUCH a sucker for characters like Cal, but I really enjoyed getting to know Joe as well. They had a very interesting dynamic and I loved how they interacted.
As for the plot, well, it was exciting but also kind of predictable? I figured it out pretty early and then had to wait for the characters to catch up. There were also some things that I... well, have questions about, but they're pretty minor.
So yeah. A good book, but not quite what I wanted. Even if there were things that didn't quite mesh with me, I did enjoy it.
June 11, 2019
Two men coming from different backgrounds, upbringing, education, not to mention life choices, meet and the sparks fly. The chemistry is undeniable and they are burning up the sheets, but could this become something more? Add a mystery and unsolved issues from the past and you have a great read. The writing is captivating and characters very well fleshed out as always when you read books from this author. This was a 5 star read for me from the page one up to the last chapter and epilogue. The ending fellt rushed, some choices made, especially regarding the stalker just made me stare in disbelief. There were too many unresolved issues left to satisfy the reader. If we could expect a sequel I would easily rate this one 5 stars. I'm still hoping for book two because I think Joe and Cal have a lot more to say.
June 12, 2019
I enjoyed Take the Edge Off. It’s a very well written, engaging mystery/romance. Cal and Joe come from very different backgrounds but they fit so well together. Cal is confident in his skin, snarky, and funny as hell. He knows who he is and he isn’t intimidated by Joe’s lifestyle, or the snobbery of Edward, who handles Joe’s security. Despite his confidence, there’s an underlying layer of self-doubt due to the instability of his upbringing and poor life choices. Joe appears to have an ideal life. Born into wealth and privilege he hasn’t wanted for much, except for a mother’s touch. He’s received information that implies there’s a dark secret surrounding his mother’s death and he needs to get to the bottom of it to really understand his history. Cal and Joe fall hard for each other as they uncover clues that eventually lead to the truth.
June 11, 2019
3.5 stars rounded up. This is the first book by T.A. Moore I've read and it was an enjoyable read. I didn't love the book, but I didn't feel it was a waste of time to have read either. I felt the characters fell into bed together pretty quickly and suddenly, but I did enjoy watching their relationship progress once things got started. I'm always a sucker for two MCs from complete opposite walks of life falling for each other.
I did also enjoy the suspense element of the story and while it wasn't shocking, it was well written and served the story well. I will definitely give more books by this author a read.
*I received an ARC of the story in exchange for an honest review
I did also enjoy the suspense element of the story and while it wasn't shocking, it was well written and served the story well. I will definitely give more books by this author a read.
*I received an ARC of the story in exchange for an honest review
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