Love this Author but felt a bit left out
I have loved every book by this author so far. Generally, my only complaint would be that the books aren‘t long enough because you just cannot help wanting more. What I loved about Reckless Conduct is the build-up, the tension and the snarky banter between the MCs. The writing provides you with great characters whose chemistry makes this an enjoyable read. The point of contention (which is why 4 stars) that I had with the storyline is that, while the slow burning build up to a relationship (ca 50-60% of book) is amazing, but once Miguel and Ray start their romantic relationship I couldn’t help but feel left out.
Spoilers!
Let me explain:
1. I find when sex is part of a romance novel, it does/should add to the intimacy and speak to the needs these characters have. The first intimate moment is beautiful heat-of–the moment goodness in a car. Later on though: we don‘t get to read/feel the first time they have penetrative sex, there is mention of Miguel possibly bottoming but it‘s never addressed, the loss of control/ need factor for Ray during sex is not shown neither is sex used as a tool to explore his issues with vulnerability. Don‘t get me wrong the scenes we do get are HOT but their sexual relationship is not clear. I mean I know they want each other but compared to e.g. Lucas and Elliot their boundaries, wants, needs, preferences, turn-ons etc. are not established.
2. The way these characters are written is very intricate. They are characters with complex personalities. Both Ray and Miguel have issues that pose a significant resistance/reluctance to the idea of becoming romantically involved, which is why there is such a slow-burn ‚ getting to know each other feel’ for more than half the book, (which was done beautifully). But once they start to move into a romantic relationship, things become very rushed.
There was a point in the story where Ray thinks about how important Miguel is to him and curling up with him after a long day is the best part of his life..... and I went ˋhuhˋ did I miss something? Didn‘t they just have sex for the first? But apparently they had been dating ˋweekś by that point and I did not get to be a part of it. Like I didn‘t really get to see the deepening of their feelings and suddenly they have a big fight and are in love. I just felt super left out. Though the last few pages are sweet, the intricate build-up is not followed through properly.
These points do not retract from the fact that I liked this book. As I’ve said, I love this author and anything written is better than many other books have attempted. The characters are amazing and I’d love to see more of any of them including Ray and Miguel. The writing is excellent and compelling so that I read the book in one afternoon. I love the wittiness, funny banter and silliness most of all. There are amazing, beautiful as well as many many funny moments in this book.
My favorite scene is Miguel with his label maker...it’s a genuine laugh out loud moment.
I write reviews when i feel strongly for a book and there are things that I want to point out with hopes that this will benefit fellow readers or even the author.
Concluding I recommend this series to anyone who is a fan of beautiful M/M romance due to the amazingly written cast of characters and their stories. My honest opinion is that this is not the best book of the series but still very enjoyable.