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Survivor #3
Fighter
Fighter – A Survivor story
Dedication and smarts have given Blair Cummings a leg up in the Bureau. His job is all-consuming but rewarding. It doesn’t leave much time for a love life though, not that Blair believes in love. In his early thirties, he’s only ever been in one long-term relationship due to his inability to commit to anything other than his job and his family.
Born into a family that’s as successful as they are hateful, Howard Manning Tullor Junior ran so far away from his last name that he wound up in the arms of Satan himself. Freedom comes at a high price but it’s one Mannie is willing to pay, setting him on a path that leads him to a quiet, laid-back FBI agent.
Their attraction is unexpected, and yet, welcomed. Blair seems to have finally found something worth fighting for, but Mannie, still haunted by ghosts of the past, wonders if he’ll ever be able to move on. The two are working toward their future, but can a budding romance survive when past and present collide?
Dedication and smarts have given Blair Cummings a leg up in the Bureau. His job is all-consuming but rewarding. It doesn’t leave much time for a love life though, not that Blair believes in love. In his early thirties, he’s only ever been in one long-term relationship due to his inability to commit to anything other than his job and his family.
Born into a family that’s as successful as they are hateful, Howard Manning Tullor Junior ran so far away from his last name that he wound up in the arms of Satan himself. Freedom comes at a high price but it’s one Mannie is willing to pay, setting him on a path that leads him to a quiet, laid-back FBI agent.
Their attraction is unexpected, and yet, welcomed. Blair seems to have finally found something worth fighting for, but Mannie, still haunted by ghosts of the past, wonders if he’ll ever be able to move on. The two are working toward their future, but can a budding romance survive when past and present collide?
251 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 23, 2019
12 people are currently reading
104 people want to read
About the author
T.M. Smith
28 books316 followersTM Smith
Author bio and links:
A military brat born and raised at Ft. Benning Georgia; Smith is an avid reader that just happens to write sweet & sexy gay romance. A Texas transplant, she now calls DFW her home. Most days she can be found curled up with a good book, or ticking away on her next novel.
Smith is a single mom of three disturbingly outspoken and decidedly different kids, one of which is Autistic. Besides her writing, she is passionate about Autism advocacy and LGBT rights. Because, seriously people, Love is Love!
Website: www.authortmsmith.com
Blog: www.ttcbooksandmore.com
Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTMSmith
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Amazon AU: https://goo.gl/0sCPxq
Amazon DE: https://goo.gl/fhBB9c
Author bio and links:
A military brat born and raised at Ft. Benning Georgia; Smith is an avid reader that just happens to write sweet & sexy gay romance. A Texas transplant, she now calls DFW her home. Most days she can be found curled up with a good book, or ticking away on her next novel.
Smith is a single mom of three disturbingly outspoken and decidedly different kids, one of which is Autistic. Besides her writing, she is passionate about Autism advocacy and LGBT rights. Because, seriously people, Love is Love!
Website: www.authortmsmith.com
Blog: www.ttcbooksandmore.com
Facebook Author: https://www.facebook.com/AuthorTMSmith
Join the TRIBE Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/groups/99462...
Twitter - https://twitter.com/TTCBooksandmore
GoodReads: https://goo.gl/XQugse
Pinterest: https://goo.gl/cq9R9t
Youtube: https://goo.gl/Rpq5gX
Amazon: http://amzn.to/1muE5AA
iTunes: https://goo.gl/vrLfOl
Audible: https://goo.gl/7Iu4Zf
Amazon UK: http://amzn.to/2syj3Ij
Amazon AU: https://goo.gl/0sCPxq
Amazon DE: https://goo.gl/fhBB9c
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 40 reviews
November 5, 2020
Happy endings for everyone.
The first two books in this series are really well done - the author builds this whole dark story, and the characters are complex and even the bad guys are super interesting.
Fighter didn't work for me. The way the story jumps from time period to time period is confusing and it was tough to keep my focus.
In the end I'm happy to get everything wrapped up, and Blair and Mannie's story is really nice.
an audiobook copy of Fighter was provided for the purpose of my honest review
The first two books in this series are really well done - the author builds this whole dark story, and the characters are complex and even the bad guys are super interesting.
Fighter didn't work for me. The way the story jumps from time period to time period is confusing and it was tough to keep my focus.
In the end I'm happy to get everything wrapped up, and Blair and Mannie's story is really nice.
an audiobook copy of Fighter was provided for the purpose of my honest review
May 8, 2020
4.5
Per fortuna la serie è finita o morivo disidratata. Quanto ho pianto! Mannie è l'emblema del fatto che, anche violati, spezzati, intimamente distrutti, si può amare ed essere amati. Nonostante i fantasmi, il dolore e la paura, che non è detto che se ne vadano per sempre.
Per fortuna la serie è finita o morivo disidratata. Quanto ho pianto! Mannie è l'emblema del fatto che, anche violati, spezzati, intimamente distrutti, si può amare ed essere amati. Nonostante i fantasmi, il dolore e la paura, che non è detto che se ne vadano per sempre.
April 3, 2024
Voto 4+ 💝
Con “Combattente” siamo giunti all’ultimo episodio della trilogia “Survivor”, che ci ha regalato diverse emozioni attraverso storie di rinascita di giovani spezzati a causa della malvagità altrui, che riescono a sopravvivere e rinascere grazie alla forza dell’amore e della famiglia.
In questo terzo libro la storia si svolge lungo un arco di tempo parallelo a quello di “Amanti”. I due protagonisti, Howard Manning Tullor Junior e Blair Cummings, si conoscono, infatti, proprio durante le indagini sulle misteriose scomparse di alcuni giovani, e da quel momento le loro vite si intrecciano in modo indissolubile.
Blair Cummings è un ragazzo intelligente e brillante che sta percorrendo una soddisfacente carriera all’interno del Bureau. Essendosi dedicato per anni quasi esclusivamente al suo lavoro senza risparmiare energie, ha avuto poco tempo per le relazioni amorose e non sembra essere disturbato dall’idea di continuare a rimanere single. Ama la sua famiglia e i suoi colleghi, ma il suo mondo viene completamente stravolto quando il suo sguardo incrocia gli occhi azzurri e pieni di paura e tormento di Howard Manning Tullor Junior, detto Mannie, un ragazzo che tutti credevano morto da tempo, ma che ora sembra pronto a testimoniare contro coloro che gli hanno fatto del male in passato. L’istinto protettivo di Blair raggiunge il suo massimo livello nel momento in cui si trova a contatto con Mannie e un sentimento mai provato prima, unito a una profonda attrazione, lo spinge a cercare di non separarsi più dal ragazzo.
Mannie Tullor ha avuto un’adolescenza particolarmente complessa. La sua famiglia bigotta, con un nonno intollerante, oltre che giudice spietato e subdolo, un padre violento e rabbioso e una madre assente, non tollera la sua omosessualità, e questo lo spinge a gesti di ribellione e insofferenza che il giudice cerca di stroncare in ogni modo affidandolo a un avvocato che si rivela essere la sua condanna. Dopo anni di abusi, riesce a trovare rifugio in una famiglia in Arizona che lo ama in modo assoluto senza giudicarlo. Recarsi a Dallas negli uffici dell’FBI per testimoniare contro gli uomini che gli hanno fatto del male potrebbe essere un colpo fatale per la sua precaria salute mentale, ma decide di farlo lo stesso per solidarietà verso i ragazzi che hanno subito la sua stessa sorte e non sono stati altrettanto fortunati. Ritrovarsi di fronte al bellissimo agente Cummings, che con il suo modo gentile di fare lo fa sentire a proprio agio e protetto come mai nessuno prima, lo spinge a sperare di poter avere un amore tutto suo. Tuttavia, superare il dolore e i traumi del passato non sarà affatto facile.
“Combattente” è una storia che, nonostante il dolore di fondo, si rivela molto dolce e confortante. Accompagnata da una scrittura precisa e incisiva, la narrazione appare lineare, con un guizzo di tensione verso il finale. Dopo alcuni capitoli iniziali che ci mostrano cosa è accaduto nelle vite di Blair e Mannie nel corso degli anni, giungiamo a quello che è stato uno dei punti salienti del precedente romanzo e che adesso viene visto sotto due punti di vista diversi, ovvero la testimonianza contro i criminali che tanto dolore hanno causato a Mannie e altri ragazzi. Il giovane tormentato e l’affascinante agente sembrano entrare subito in sintonia, tanto da trascorrere alcuni giorni insieme durante i quali comprendono di volersi frequentare. Ho amato molto l’atteggiamento di Blair, la sua affabilità, oltre che l’infinita pazienza. Il giovane non ha mai nascosto a se stesso di provare attrazione per entrambi i sessi, ma non è mai andato molto oltre l’appagamento fisico con nessuna delle persone che ha incontrato. Invece, per Mannie prova qualcosa di completamente diverso, un desiderio profondo e innegabile che si combina a un sentimento di affetto e protezione, per cui il suo unico obiettivo è farlo stare bene. Mannie è un dolce groviglio di paure e insicurezze, ma che nasconde dentro di sé la forza del combattente, che riesce a sopravvivere anche nei momenti più disperati. Vive la sua storia d’amore con Blair passo dopo passo, quasi con stupore, come se davvero non riuscisse a capire come abbia potuto essere così fortunato, lasciandosi andare ogni giorno di più mentre cerca di cacciare in fondo alla sua mente i traumi subiti, senza potersene mai liberare completamente, ma cercando di non farsi bloccare.
La storia si arricchisce di tanti nuovi comprimari, in particolare le famiglie di Blair e Mannie, che si uniscono ai protagonisti che abbiamo imparato ad amare nei precedenti volumi e che in questo romanzo vedono le loro vicende amorose trovare un definitivo completamento.
“Combattente” è la degna conclusione di una bella serie, una storia ricca di dolcezza e passionalità, in cui la forza dell’amore cerca di attenuare il dolore, dimostrando che si può meritare di essere amati dopo tanta sofferenza e che ci si può definitivamente ribellare contro la malvagità di chi vuol distruggere la vita altrui.
Con “Combattente” siamo giunti all’ultimo episodio della trilogia “Survivor”, che ci ha regalato diverse emozioni attraverso storie di rinascita di giovani spezzati a causa della malvagità altrui, che riescono a sopravvivere e rinascere grazie alla forza dell’amore e della famiglia.
In questo terzo libro la storia si svolge lungo un arco di tempo parallelo a quello di “Amanti”. I due protagonisti, Howard Manning Tullor Junior e Blair Cummings, si conoscono, infatti, proprio durante le indagini sulle misteriose scomparse di alcuni giovani, e da quel momento le loro vite si intrecciano in modo indissolubile.
Blair Cummings è un ragazzo intelligente e brillante che sta percorrendo una soddisfacente carriera all’interno del Bureau. Essendosi dedicato per anni quasi esclusivamente al suo lavoro senza risparmiare energie, ha avuto poco tempo per le relazioni amorose e non sembra essere disturbato dall’idea di continuare a rimanere single. Ama la sua famiglia e i suoi colleghi, ma il suo mondo viene completamente stravolto quando il suo sguardo incrocia gli occhi azzurri e pieni di paura e tormento di Howard Manning Tullor Junior, detto Mannie, un ragazzo che tutti credevano morto da tempo, ma che ora sembra pronto a testimoniare contro coloro che gli hanno fatto del male in passato. L’istinto protettivo di Blair raggiunge il suo massimo livello nel momento in cui si trova a contatto con Mannie e un sentimento mai provato prima, unito a una profonda attrazione, lo spinge a cercare di non separarsi più dal ragazzo.
Mannie Tullor ha avuto un’adolescenza particolarmente complessa. La sua famiglia bigotta, con un nonno intollerante, oltre che giudice spietato e subdolo, un padre violento e rabbioso e una madre assente, non tollera la sua omosessualità, e questo lo spinge a gesti di ribellione e insofferenza che il giudice cerca di stroncare in ogni modo affidandolo a un avvocato che si rivela essere la sua condanna. Dopo anni di abusi, riesce a trovare rifugio in una famiglia in Arizona che lo ama in modo assoluto senza giudicarlo. Recarsi a Dallas negli uffici dell’FBI per testimoniare contro gli uomini che gli hanno fatto del male potrebbe essere un colpo fatale per la sua precaria salute mentale, ma decide di farlo lo stesso per solidarietà verso i ragazzi che hanno subito la sua stessa sorte e non sono stati altrettanto fortunati. Ritrovarsi di fronte al bellissimo agente Cummings, che con il suo modo gentile di fare lo fa sentire a proprio agio e protetto come mai nessuno prima, lo spinge a sperare di poter avere un amore tutto suo. Tuttavia, superare il dolore e i traumi del passato non sarà affatto facile.
“Combattente” è una storia che, nonostante il dolore di fondo, si rivela molto dolce e confortante. Accompagnata da una scrittura precisa e incisiva, la narrazione appare lineare, con un guizzo di tensione verso il finale. Dopo alcuni capitoli iniziali che ci mostrano cosa è accaduto nelle vite di Blair e Mannie nel corso degli anni, giungiamo a quello che è stato uno dei punti salienti del precedente romanzo e che adesso viene visto sotto due punti di vista diversi, ovvero la testimonianza contro i criminali che tanto dolore hanno causato a Mannie e altri ragazzi. Il giovane tormentato e l’affascinante agente sembrano entrare subito in sintonia, tanto da trascorrere alcuni giorni insieme durante i quali comprendono di volersi frequentare. Ho amato molto l’atteggiamento di Blair, la sua affabilità, oltre che l’infinita pazienza. Il giovane non ha mai nascosto a se stesso di provare attrazione per entrambi i sessi, ma non è mai andato molto oltre l’appagamento fisico con nessuna delle persone che ha incontrato. Invece, per Mannie prova qualcosa di completamente diverso, un desiderio profondo e innegabile che si combina a un sentimento di affetto e protezione, per cui il suo unico obiettivo è farlo stare bene. Mannie è un dolce groviglio di paure e insicurezze, ma che nasconde dentro di sé la forza del combattente, che riesce a sopravvivere anche nei momenti più disperati. Vive la sua storia d’amore con Blair passo dopo passo, quasi con stupore, come se davvero non riuscisse a capire come abbia potuto essere così fortunato, lasciandosi andare ogni giorno di più mentre cerca di cacciare in fondo alla sua mente i traumi subiti, senza potersene mai liberare completamente, ma cercando di non farsi bloccare.
La storia si arricchisce di tanti nuovi comprimari, in particolare le famiglie di Blair e Mannie, che si uniscono ai protagonisti che abbiamo imparato ad amare nei precedenti volumi e che in questo romanzo vedono le loro vicende amorose trovare un definitivo completamento.
“Combattente” è la degna conclusione di una bella serie, una storia ricca di dolcezza e passionalità, in cui la forza dell’amore cerca di attenuare il dolore, dimostrando che si può meritare di essere amati dopo tanta sofferenza e che ci si può definitivamente ribellare contro la malvagità di chi vuol distruggere la vita altrui.
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August 20, 2019I was so happy to see that we were finally going to get the final book in this trilogy and wrap up all of the storylines that began with Survivor. As with Lover, there are events in this book that overlap with the earlier events from Survivor, like when Taylor was younger and growing up. I'd personally recommend reading all the books to really know who the characters are from the previous 2 books, since they are also in this one.
We get to learn about Mannie's past and his horrible childhood, something that no one should have to endure. Mannie truly is a fighter, refusing to give up on life and still hopeful for love, despite his fears and insecurities. Blair was a perfect match for Mannie, he was patient, kind, respectful, and truly cared for him.
So, a couple of things that I admittedly did struggle with while reading this story. There is a LOT of telling. Entire events and moments are just explained as having already happened. I feel like, as a reader, I'd want to read about it happening rather than being told about it after the fact. Something like Blair's family finding out about Mannie seems like something I should get to read about, not be told about. I think this is just the author's writing style, as I'm pretty sure that I have made this comment before.
Also, the paragraphs and dialogue were long, and with no breaks. I'm talking about a full page and then some on my kindle with no paragraph line breaks. Again, I think this is just the writer's style.
There is an emotional, uplifting story in here, about being able to move on and recover from past trauma, and that you can find love and a forever type of relationship with a good man. However, I do think that the impact of the story would have been more powerful with maybe tighter editing and not being quite so wordy?
For me, Frank and Taylor from the first book are still my favorite couple, and I loved getting to see them show up in this one, they kinda stole the scenes they were in for me.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
We get to learn about Mannie's past and his horrible childhood, something that no one should have to endure. Mannie truly is a fighter, refusing to give up on life and still hopeful for love, despite his fears and insecurities. Blair was a perfect match for Mannie, he was patient, kind, respectful, and truly cared for him.
So, a couple of things that I admittedly did struggle with while reading this story. There is a LOT of telling. Entire events and moments are just explained as having already happened. I feel like, as a reader, I'd want to read about it happening rather than being told about it after the fact. Something like Blair's family finding out about Mannie seems like something I should get to read about, not be told about. I think this is just the author's writing style, as I'm pretty sure that I have made this comment before.
Also, the paragraphs and dialogue were long, and with no breaks. I'm talking about a full page and then some on my kindle with no paragraph line breaks. Again, I think this is just the writer's style.
There is an emotional, uplifting story in here, about being able to move on and recover from past trauma, and that you can find love and a forever type of relationship with a good man. However, I do think that the impact of the story would have been more powerful with maybe tighter editing and not being quite so wordy?
For me, Frank and Taylor from the first book are still my favorite couple, and I loved getting to see them show up in this one, they kinda stole the scenes they were in for me.
I received an arc in exchange for an honest review.
August 23, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
this book definitely cannot be read as a standalone. There are huge gaps of missing information that you’ll only know if you’ve read the first two books in the Survivor trilogy. Since I have, and enjoyed them quite a bit, I didn’t mind that at all. But I will admit to being disappointed with this story. The first two had the same kind of feel, the same weight, and I was expecting the same with this book. Sadly, I didn’t get it and the structure of this story, along with the narrative choice, left something lacking for me.
I really liked finally getting to see Blair get his happy ever after, as he was an integral side character in the first two books. I also really appreciated getting so see Mannie find a good place after everything he’d been through. We met him briefly at the end of the second book, and it was clear there that something was brewing between Mannie and Blair. So the pay off on that was decent, and I was glad for a story that brought this whole trilogy to a close. And while the characters themselves were good, there was too much missing from the narrative for this story to work well for me.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
this book definitely cannot be read as a standalone. There are huge gaps of missing information that you’ll only know if you’ve read the first two books in the Survivor trilogy. Since I have, and enjoyed them quite a bit, I didn’t mind that at all. But I will admit to being disappointed with this story. The first two had the same kind of feel, the same weight, and I was expecting the same with this book. Sadly, I didn’t get it and the structure of this story, along with the narrative choice, left something lacking for me.
I really liked finally getting to see Blair get his happy ever after, as he was an integral side character in the first two books. I also really appreciated getting so see Mannie find a good place after everything he’d been through. We met him briefly at the end of the second book, and it was clear there that something was brewing between Mannie and Blair. So the pay off on that was decent, and I was glad for a story that brought this whole trilogy to a close. And while the characters themselves were good, there was too much missing from the narrative for this story to work well for me.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
February 22, 2023
J'avais bien aimé les deux premiers tomes et surtout apprécié l'intrigue policière qui servait de fond dans la romance.
J'avoue que la lecture des deux premiers tomes date d'un an et demi, j'ai dormi depuis... mais en lisant rapidos le résumé et mes commentaires de l'époque, ça m'est revenu assez facilement. J'attendais donc avec impatience la résolution de l'enquête qui a plus ou moins commencé dans le premier tome.
Et en fait, tout est déjà résolu finalement dans le tome précédent, ce tome ne servant qu'à donner son happy end à Junior. Sauf que si Junior mérite son happy end, que Blair est absolument charmant et merveilleux, tout va beaucoup trop vite au vu du traumatisme subi par le premier avec son tortionnaire. Et j'ai trouvé ça plutôt dommage, c'est comme si l'auteur avait voulu boucler le truc, et avait juste oublier de travailler un peu la psycho du couple et leur rapprochement, dommage.
Ce tome a cependant été l'occasion d'avoir des nouvelles du couple et du trouple des tomes précédents et de voir, malgré tout, Junior/Mannie démarrer une nouvelle vie et ses tortionnaires payer leurs dettes, même si le sort de Bruce est assez vite zappé.
J'avoue que la lecture des deux premiers tomes date d'un an et demi, j'ai dormi depuis... mais en lisant rapidos le résumé et mes commentaires de l'époque, ça m'est revenu assez facilement. J'attendais donc avec impatience la résolution de l'enquête qui a plus ou moins commencé dans le premier tome.
Et en fait, tout est déjà résolu finalement dans le tome précédent, ce tome ne servant qu'à donner son happy end à Junior. Sauf que si Junior mérite son happy end, que Blair est absolument charmant et merveilleux, tout va beaucoup trop vite au vu du traumatisme subi par le premier avec son tortionnaire. Et j'ai trouvé ça plutôt dommage, c'est comme si l'auteur avait voulu boucler le truc, et avait juste oublier de travailler un peu la psycho du couple et leur rapprochement, dommage.
Ce tome a cependant été l'occasion d'avoir des nouvelles du couple et du trouple des tomes précédents et de voir, malgré tout, Junior/Mannie démarrer une nouvelle vie et ses tortionnaires payer leurs dettes, même si le sort de Bruce est assez vite zappé.
May 12, 2020
3.75
Una storia molto dolce, anche se non indolore. Uno dei protagonisti ha una storia sofferta e di abusi sulle spalle con cui, appunto, combatterà sempre.
Una lettura godibilissima, anche se l'ho trovata affrettata in alcuni punti.
Una storia molto dolce, anche se non indolore. Uno dei protagonisti ha una storia sofferta e di abusi sulle spalle con cui, appunto, combatterà sempre.
Una lettura godibilissima, anche se l'ho trovata affrettata in alcuni punti.
December 19, 2019
* * * BETA copy read * * *
Content is subject to change before publication, therefore, I am only providing the briefest and vaguest of reviews.
POV: Alternating first-person
Lead Characters:
Agent Blair Cummings, FBI.
Howard Manning Tulor Jr - a survivor of the Columbia River Killer, self-employed graphic artist & website designer.
Secondary Cast:
Frank & Taylor (Survivor). Rory, Shannon & Rand (Lover). Connie & Claire (Lover). Family, friends, coworkers.
Setting: Dallas, Phoenix, Seattle.
This series follows a set timeline that carries over from each book, occasionally overlapping scenes a bit. It is suggested that the books be read in order.
* * * ARC REVIEW * * *
POV ~> Alternating first-person
Young man gazes off in contemplation. A Ferris Wheel resides in the background. Nice colors, legible title and author name. Synopsis was interesting but, being the series conclusion, the book itself was automatically a must-read.
Manny is a survivor, through and through. He’s smart, independent, and comfortable in his semi-isolated world. Until he gets a call from his best friend, telling him the FBI are looking for survivors of the Columbia River Killer.
Blair’s been working the case tirelessly and all he wants is to catch a break. Like the one he gets when a young man calls the hotline set up, stating he may have info they’re looking for.
Once in Dallas, they form an immediate connection & quickly become inseparable.
The whole of the previous cast are present throughout and an introduction of more friends and family add a well-rounded, full cast to support the lead couple throughout the story.
If you’ve not read SURVIVOR or LOVER yet, I strongly suggest you do as this trilogy does follow a specific timeline and certain plot elements carry through and interconnect with events and overlapping a few scenes, but from a new angle.
I’d first read the beta copy that might as well have been a thick outline. This fleshed-out final copy provides a depth and connection that was just so much more… more emotional, more gripping.
I’m sad to see this series end and hope Ms. Smith will grace us with a spin-off series with a few crossover cameos, there are a few characters I’d love to see find their HEA as well.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.425 ~ Stars: 4.5
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from TTC Publishing and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
* * * AUDIOBOOK REVIEW * * *
Written by TM Smith, Narrated by Nick J Russo
Audiobook copy provided by TTC Books & More
I was not required to leave a review, any opinions are my own and freely given.
Nick J Russo has a way of bringing the characters to life with a well-timed narration, enjoyable vocal performance, and clear speech.
Each character is easy to pick out, they were given their own voice and personality off-page.
Russo is a "Top 3 Narrator" for me. Well done!
~
Narration: 4.5 stars
~
Content is subject to change before publication, therefore, I am only providing the briefest and vaguest of reviews.
POV: Alternating first-person
Lead Characters:
Agent Blair Cummings, FBI.
Howard Manning Tulor Jr - a survivor of the Columbia River Killer, self-employed graphic artist & website designer.
Secondary Cast:
Frank & Taylor (Survivor). Rory, Shannon & Rand (Lover). Connie & Claire (Lover). Family, friends, coworkers.
Setting: Dallas, Phoenix, Seattle.
This series follows a set timeline that carries over from each book, occasionally overlapping scenes a bit. It is suggested that the books be read in order.
* * * ARC REVIEW * * *
POV ~> Alternating first-person
Young man gazes off in contemplation. A Ferris Wheel resides in the background. Nice colors, legible title and author name. Synopsis was interesting but, being the series conclusion, the book itself was automatically a must-read.
Manny is a survivor, through and through. He’s smart, independent, and comfortable in his semi-isolated world. Until he gets a call from his best friend, telling him the FBI are looking for survivors of the Columbia River Killer.
Blair’s been working the case tirelessly and all he wants is to catch a break. Like the one he gets when a young man calls the hotline set up, stating he may have info they’re looking for.
Once in Dallas, they form an immediate connection & quickly become inseparable.
The whole of the previous cast are present throughout and an introduction of more friends and family add a well-rounded, full cast to support the lead couple throughout the story.
If you’ve not read SURVIVOR or LOVER yet, I strongly suggest you do as this trilogy does follow a specific timeline and certain plot elements carry through and interconnect with events and overlapping a few scenes, but from a new angle.
I’d first read the beta copy that might as well have been a thick outline. This fleshed-out final copy provides a depth and connection that was just so much more… more emotional, more gripping.
I’m sad to see this series end and hope Ms. Smith will grace us with a spin-off series with a few crossover cameos, there are a few characters I’d love to see find their HEA as well.
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.425 ~ Stars: 4.5
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from TTC Publishing and am voluntarily leaving unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
* * * AUDIOBOOK REVIEW * * *
Written by TM Smith, Narrated by Nick J Russo
Audiobook copy provided by TTC Books & More
I was not required to leave a review, any opinions are my own and freely given.
Nick J Russo has a way of bringing the characters to life with a well-timed narration, enjoyable vocal performance, and clear speech.
Each character is easy to pick out, they were given their own voice and personality off-page.
Russo is a "Top 3 Narrator" for me. Well done!
~
Narration: 4.5 stars
~
August 24, 2019
The author has added another fantastic, grab-you-by-the-feels, powerful, heartbreaking yet hopeful, raw, gripping, intense, enthralling, fast paced, emotionally charged, action packed, smoking hot, and totally awesome tale to this marvelous series. Filled with mystery, more twists and turns than a roller coaster, and keep-you-on-the-edge-of-your-seat tension, it had me hooked from beginning to end. I ended up with a massive book hangover because I just could NOT put it down. I can't wait to see what happens next.
January 9, 2020
great finale for this series.. it was amazing.. it makes me sad its over but kinda hoping maybe a spinoff will happen or maybe we will see these characters again later. good storyline and good writing. i loved it
January 14, 2020
Great addition to this series. This story is mostly about overcoming past hurts and trauma that happened. The narration by Nick J Russo was as great as always and he really brought the story to life.
August 26, 2021
This was my first book by T.M. Smith and thus my first book in the "Survivor" series. Unfortunately, I don't know the other two books, but I loved this one and it's quite listenable without knowing the previous volumes.
The author has an engaging writing style that reads well. Manny has fallen on hard times and when it comes to getting his rabble rouser behind bars, Manny finally pulls himself together to give a statement to the FBI. There he meets Blair, to whom work means a lot and who therefore has no time for a love life.
When the two meet, you can feel the sparks fly between them. I liked the story, it was sometimes more and sometimes less exciting, but emotional and absolutely sweet. You learn a lot about the background of the two and I could put myself well into the protagonists. I also liked the development of the relationship they both grow into. It was told authentically and with feeling. And I was really angry at both Manny's family and the man who had a relationship with him that doomed Manny.
I liked the sympathetic and loving Blair immensely and I loved the way he handled Manny.
Nick J. Russo reads the audiobook really great. I've only listened to a few audiobooks with Nick as narrator, but I love the way he reads. He has a sexy voice and gives each character a distinctive voice. He also does a great job of reflecting emotions and it was a pleasure to listen to him tell this story.
From me there's an absolute listening recommendation!
The author has an engaging writing style that reads well. Manny has fallen on hard times and when it comes to getting his rabble rouser behind bars, Manny finally pulls himself together to give a statement to the FBI. There he meets Blair, to whom work means a lot and who therefore has no time for a love life.
When the two meet, you can feel the sparks fly between them. I liked the story, it was sometimes more and sometimes less exciting, but emotional and absolutely sweet. You learn a lot about the background of the two and I could put myself well into the protagonists. I also liked the development of the relationship they both grow into. It was told authentically and with feeling. And I was really angry at both Manny's family and the man who had a relationship with him that doomed Manny.
I liked the sympathetic and loving Blair immensely and I loved the way he handled Manny.
Nick J. Russo reads the audiobook really great. I've only listened to a few audiobooks with Nick as narrator, but I love the way he reads. He has a sexy voice and gives each character a distinctive voice. He also does a great job of reflecting emotions and it was a pleasure to listen to him tell this story.
From me there's an absolute listening recommendation!
August 9, 2019
Mannie...there are no words to say about how much he suffered in his life. He deserved this love story with Blair. This book is a perfect way to end the serial killer plot and finish up a few lose ends from the previous books.
Is there more of this series?
Is there more of this series?
September 24, 2019
I’ve been watching for the third book in TM Smith’s Survivor series and it was definitely worth the wait to experience Mannie and Blair building their relationship. The attraction between them flares almost instantly and I really appreciated that they could acknowledge it and honestly communicate their intent to explore it without being dismissive of Mannie’s vulnerabilities. Blair’s protective instincts and patience is noteworthy but it was Mannie’s tentative steps towards him while he worked through his insecurities and recaptured joy in his life that truly charmed me. He definitely has a lot of demons to wrestle with and I couldn’t help but cheer him on as he rebuilt his life with his chosen family. I also loved getting to catch up with the characters who had already endeared themselves to me earlier in the series and felt like Fighter answered any lingering questions I had. Spanning almost a decade to paint a complete picture of how far both Mannie and Blair have come, there’s significant overlap with the events occurring in Survivor and Lover, so I would recommend reading these books in sequence.
Want to read
August 3, 2019
Fighter (Survivor #3) (ARC) was graciously provided to me by the author for an honest review. I will voluntarily read this book and provide my honest opinion. Review to follow.
December 18, 2019
From the moment Mannie appeared in person in Lover, and the spark with Blair was evident when he was with everyone in his interview, I was immediately attached to them and couldn’t wait for their story. Given Mannie’s past I knew their book should be the most emotional of the series. That said, this series is meant to be read in order as you’ll find references to events that happened previously here, so make sure you’ve read Survivor and Lover first.
We really get to see more in depth the horrible things Mannie had to live through not just with Bruce, his ex, but also with his own family before that. Blair provides the perfect counterpoint for him, being patient, considerate, and gentle with him even before they start a relationship. Blair’s protective, nurturing nature is very evident here, and is exactly what Mannie needs.
I did think that their relationship moved pretty quickly, and the beginning of it did seem to skim over the details to get them to the point where they were more comfortable and settled as a couple.
Though this is the final book in the trilogy, there are still some drama and surprises to be found as things are tied up with Mannie’s family—but also an interesting twist with some favorite characters in the series. And I have to say, the Director (FBI, Blair and Rory’s boss) has been raising my interest with the role he plays in things.
If you’ve been following the series, you’ll want to check Fighter out to see how things wrap up. For me, this was hovering between 3.5-4 stars, mostly due to the rushed feeling Blair and Mannie’s relationship had. This book is for readers 18+ for adult language, sexual content, and references to past abuse.
We really get to see more in depth the horrible things Mannie had to live through not just with Bruce, his ex, but also with his own family before that. Blair provides the perfect counterpoint for him, being patient, considerate, and gentle with him even before they start a relationship. Blair’s protective, nurturing nature is very evident here, and is exactly what Mannie needs.
I did think that their relationship moved pretty quickly, and the beginning of it did seem to skim over the details to get them to the point where they were more comfortable and settled as a couple.
Though this is the final book in the trilogy, there are still some drama and surprises to be found as things are tied up with Mannie’s family—but also an interesting twist with some favorite characters in the series. And I have to say, the Director (FBI, Blair and Rory’s boss) has been raising my interest with the role he plays in things.
If you’ve been following the series, you’ll want to check Fighter out to see how things wrap up. For me, this was hovering between 3.5-4 stars, mostly due to the rushed feeling Blair and Mannie’s relationship had. This book is for readers 18+ for adult language, sexual content, and references to past abuse.
December 6, 2019
Audio update. I just listened to the audio and Nick J. Russo kicked this already good story up a notch. His voice is sexy and he gives each character a distinctive voice. I highly recommend!
This is the third book in the series and I recommend you read in order so you know each key player.
Also, it is written Manny’s POV so you do get his back story, then Blair's POV so you get his back story then as both men’s world collide you get their romance so it’s like three books in one.
Manny’s story is a bit harsh, there is violence but it’s handled well.
I loved all the characters and we get more Taylor and the other guys.
If you like hot detectives, good friends, fast-moving romance, and some good man-sex this is for you!
This is the third book in the series and I recommend you read in order so you know each key player.
Also, it is written Manny’s POV so you do get his back story, then Blair's POV so you get his back story then as both men’s world collide you get their romance so it’s like three books in one.
Manny’s story is a bit harsh, there is violence but it’s handled well.
I loved all the characters and we get more Taylor and the other guys.
If you like hot detectives, good friends, fast-moving romance, and some good man-sex this is for you!
September 1, 2019
Great finale to a wonderful series
Each book in this series focuses on a young man who has gone through a horrible experience growing up. In Survivor it was Taylor and in Lover it was Shannon. This new book provides nice glimpses into how their lives are now. Happy, healthy, and in love. All great things for young men who endured terrible things. In Fighter we meet a young man who might be the most broken of all of them.
“Tell me why you’re confused, Mannie.”
“Because he said the same things, whispered the same promises, and broke every single one.” Mannie reveled in the courage he didn’t realize he possessed, being in Blair’s presence alone giving him the strength to speak his mind. He could hear the sincerity in Blair’s tone, feel the warmth of his touch. “He broke me, Blair. I don’t know if I’ll ever be whole again.”
My heart broke a little. Mannie endured hell for four years and only through sheer luck survived. He escaped because everyone believed him dead. With the help of a nice person he made his way to another state and began to live his life. But nightmares of his captivity dog him and although he’s made progress, he’s not the man he wants to be. Not the man he believes Blair deserves. Blair, for his part, is far more accepting. He’s seen a lot of terrible things in his career in the FBI. One of his first assignments was to look out for Taylor, making sure the young man was safe. That involved going undercover as a high school student and he had the babyface looks to make it work. When Taylor discovered the years of duplicity he was – rightly – angry. He forgave Blair and they forged a close friendship. In working with Taylor, Blair witnessed firsthand the effect of trauma on someone. Not to compare, but Taylor’s trauma didn’t last for years and years. At least not in the way Mannie’s did.
Blair encounters Mannie through his role as an FBI agent. There is a bit of the agent/witness crossing of lines but I was just so happy to see Mannie finding someone that I didn’t mind. In a way things moved quickly and in other ways they moved slowly. What was clear from the beginning was that Blair was ready to give Mannie time to adjust. Mannie had believed after what he endured that not only was he unlovable, but that he’d be alone for the rest of his life. I could relate to that. When Mannie meets Blair, though, all things become possible. But he still has to fight his demons.
There are families we are born into – like Blair’s – and there are families we choose. Mannie’s horrific childhood isn’t easily overcome, but the family who took him in are great people who spend everyday teaching the young man he is worth the effort. There’s tremendous power and love there. And, eventually, he begins to see himself as more than just a broken person. I enjoyed Blair caring so deeply for Mannie. On one day they go out, Blair says:
“I wish I could see this through your eyes,” Blair whispered, brushing a lock of Mannie’s golden-blond hair behind his ear.
“Why do you say that?” He slid their empty plates into the basket and refilled their glasses with the delicious champagne. It wasn’t sweet, but it wasn’t bitter either. It was perfectly in between.
Grinning, Blair took the glass and thanked him. “Everything is new and vivid to you, Mannie, so you see it all with childlike enthusiasm. I, on the other hand, have seen some of the worst parts of humanity in my line of work.” Sipping from his glass, Blair turned and looked out over the horizon. “It’s nice to see that there is still beauty and innocence in the world.”
It is amazing that after all this time Mannie could find happiness but he did just that. This book ended on a very positive note and my heart was healed.
Each book in this series focuses on a young man who has gone through a horrible experience growing up. In Survivor it was Taylor and in Lover it was Shannon. This new book provides nice glimpses into how their lives are now. Happy, healthy, and in love. All great things for young men who endured terrible things. In Fighter we meet a young man who might be the most broken of all of them.
“Tell me why you’re confused, Mannie.”
“Because he said the same things, whispered the same promises, and broke every single one.” Mannie reveled in the courage he didn’t realize he possessed, being in Blair’s presence alone giving him the strength to speak his mind. He could hear the sincerity in Blair’s tone, feel the warmth of his touch. “He broke me, Blair. I don’t know if I’ll ever be whole again.”
My heart broke a little. Mannie endured hell for four years and only through sheer luck survived. He escaped because everyone believed him dead. With the help of a nice person he made his way to another state and began to live his life. But nightmares of his captivity dog him and although he’s made progress, he’s not the man he wants to be. Not the man he believes Blair deserves. Blair, for his part, is far more accepting. He’s seen a lot of terrible things in his career in the FBI. One of his first assignments was to look out for Taylor, making sure the young man was safe. That involved going undercover as a high school student and he had the babyface looks to make it work. When Taylor discovered the years of duplicity he was – rightly – angry. He forgave Blair and they forged a close friendship. In working with Taylor, Blair witnessed firsthand the effect of trauma on someone. Not to compare, but Taylor’s trauma didn’t last for years and years. At least not in the way Mannie’s did.
Blair encounters Mannie through his role as an FBI agent. There is a bit of the agent/witness crossing of lines but I was just so happy to see Mannie finding someone that I didn’t mind. In a way things moved quickly and in other ways they moved slowly. What was clear from the beginning was that Blair was ready to give Mannie time to adjust. Mannie had believed after what he endured that not only was he unlovable, but that he’d be alone for the rest of his life. I could relate to that. When Mannie meets Blair, though, all things become possible. But he still has to fight his demons.
There are families we are born into – like Blair’s – and there are families we choose. Mannie’s horrific childhood isn’t easily overcome, but the family who took him in are great people who spend everyday teaching the young man he is worth the effort. There’s tremendous power and love there. And, eventually, he begins to see himself as more than just a broken person. I enjoyed Blair caring so deeply for Mannie. On one day they go out, Blair says:
“I wish I could see this through your eyes,” Blair whispered, brushing a lock of Mannie’s golden-blond hair behind his ear.
“Why do you say that?” He slid their empty plates into the basket and refilled their glasses with the delicious champagne. It wasn’t sweet, but it wasn’t bitter either. It was perfectly in between.
Grinning, Blair took the glass and thanked him. “Everything is new and vivid to you, Mannie, so you see it all with childlike enthusiasm. I, on the other hand, have seen some of the worst parts of humanity in my line of work.” Sipping from his glass, Blair turned and looked out over the horizon. “It’s nice to see that there is still beauty and innocence in the world.”
It is amazing that after all this time Mannie could find happiness but he did just that. This book ended on a very positive note and my heart was healed.
August 29, 2019
Fighter - Survivor story book 3 by TM Smith
Reviewed by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews
Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com
Rating 4 hearts
Fighter – A Survivor story
Dedication and smarts have given Blair Cummings a leg up in the Bureau. His job is all-consuming but rewarding. It doesn’t leave much time for a love life though, not that Blair believes in love. In his early thirties, he’s only ever been in one long-term relationship due to his inability to commit to anything other than his job and his family.
Born into a family that’s as successful as they are hateful, Howard Manning Tullor Junior ran so far away from his last name that he wound up in the arms of Satan himself. Freedom comes at a high price but it’s one Mannie is willing to pay, setting him on a path that leads him to a quiet, laid-back FBI agent.
Their attraction is unexpected, and yet, welcomed. Blair seems to have finally found something worth fighting for, but Mannie, still haunted by ghosts of the past, wonders if he’ll ever be able to move on. The two are working toward their future, but can a budding romance survive when past and present collide?
I adored the first two books in this series and couldn’t wait for this one to land on my kindle. I was already invested in Blaire and Mannie’s relationship and couldn’t wait for their full story. The tale crosses over with the other books in the survivor series and I really like that in a book series, that events intertwine as they do in real life, rather than being rebased on relationships that develop in a consecutive way. Of course, some events follow in sequence, but more than one relationship can develop at once, and I really enjoy the concurrent nature of life replicated in a series of books.
Mannie has experienced a huge amount of hardship in his life, from a difficult childhood, abusive father and grandfather who tried to beat the gay out of him, then being preyed pun by a serial offender in the form of a sadistic lawyer with a taste for underage men. Mannie has managed to survive all the atrocities that have befallen him, including being left for dead, and has begun to build a chosen family for himself and a life that can support him. Enter Blair the FBI agent who has been working on the case that includes Mannie as one of two survivors. (The other survivor Shannon’s story is told in an earlier booking the series)
Blair and Mannie have the complications of how they met with Mannie as a victim and Blair the investigator, the fact that they live in different states, and the horrific experiences Mannie has had and can he learn to trust Blair? There is lots of challenge for a new relationship in the story, but much less of the exterior threat that is included in the first two books since one of the villains is in jail and one is dead. The only added threat came from Mannie’s grandfather who turns up near the end of the story.
This is an emotional tale with the struggle for the relationship coming from the characters themselves and whether they can work out their issues, and I found this to be very engaging and I really was rooting for the guys from the outset. My only complaint, If I’m going to be picky, was that Blair seemed a little to good to be true! He had no real character flaws to speak of and as such, this made him a tiny bit one dimensional, but that really is a tiny niggle!
Highly recommended.
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
Reviewed by Shee Reader for Boy Meets Boy Reviews
Find us on the web at www.boymeetsboyreviews.com
Rating 4 hearts
Fighter – A Survivor story
Dedication and smarts have given Blair Cummings a leg up in the Bureau. His job is all-consuming but rewarding. It doesn’t leave much time for a love life though, not that Blair believes in love. In his early thirties, he’s only ever been in one long-term relationship due to his inability to commit to anything other than his job and his family.
Born into a family that’s as successful as they are hateful, Howard Manning Tullor Junior ran so far away from his last name that he wound up in the arms of Satan himself. Freedom comes at a high price but it’s one Mannie is willing to pay, setting him on a path that leads him to a quiet, laid-back FBI agent.
Their attraction is unexpected, and yet, welcomed. Blair seems to have finally found something worth fighting for, but Mannie, still haunted by ghosts of the past, wonders if he’ll ever be able to move on. The two are working toward their future, but can a budding romance survive when past and present collide?
I adored the first two books in this series and couldn’t wait for this one to land on my kindle. I was already invested in Blaire and Mannie’s relationship and couldn’t wait for their full story. The tale crosses over with the other books in the survivor series and I really like that in a book series, that events intertwine as they do in real life, rather than being rebased on relationships that develop in a consecutive way. Of course, some events follow in sequence, but more than one relationship can develop at once, and I really enjoy the concurrent nature of life replicated in a series of books.
Mannie has experienced a huge amount of hardship in his life, from a difficult childhood, abusive father and grandfather who tried to beat the gay out of him, then being preyed pun by a serial offender in the form of a sadistic lawyer with a taste for underage men. Mannie has managed to survive all the atrocities that have befallen him, including being left for dead, and has begun to build a chosen family for himself and a life that can support him. Enter Blair the FBI agent who has been working on the case that includes Mannie as one of two survivors. (The other survivor Shannon’s story is told in an earlier booking the series)
Blair and Mannie have the complications of how they met with Mannie as a victim and Blair the investigator, the fact that they live in different states, and the horrific experiences Mannie has had and can he learn to trust Blair? There is lots of challenge for a new relationship in the story, but much less of the exterior threat that is included in the first two books since one of the villains is in jail and one is dead. The only added threat came from Mannie’s grandfather who turns up near the end of the story.
This is an emotional tale with the struggle for the relationship coming from the characters themselves and whether they can work out their issues, and I found this to be very engaging and I really was rooting for the guys from the outset. My only complaint, If I’m going to be picky, was that Blair seemed a little to good to be true! He had no real character flaws to speak of and as such, this made him a tiny bit one dimensional, but that really is a tiny niggle!
Highly recommended.
I was given a free copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
August 25, 2019
So good, made me laugh and cry.
Fighter is the third book in TM Smith's Survivor series and some of the events overlap with the first two books, Survivor and Lover. You might be able to read Fighter OK as a standalone (the author does a good job of telling you things you need to know from books one and two) but for best enjoyment of the story you really should read Survivor and Lover first.
Mannie suffered unspeakable things at the hands of his family, and later by a man who said he loved him. Blair, an FBI agent, was wounded helping to solve a case that ultimately lead them to Mannie (Howard Manning Tullor, Jr.) who had been missing for years and was presumed dead.
This is kind of an insta-love story but I'm OK with that. Blair is taken with Mannie from the moment they meet and he knows that Mannie is someone he wants to get to know better. Knowing how much Mannie has suffered, Blair uses kid-gloves when approaching him. The tenderness he feels towards Mannie really comes out on the pages of the book.
I was pretty much glued to my e-reader, except when real life things forced me to put it aside. After things in the story settled down, I admit to waiting for another climax in the story and wondering what it could be and if it would ever happen. Maybe my head just wasn’t in the right space but I didn't guess what the "thing" ended up being. Props to TM Smith for adding a twist that made this engrossing story even more so for this reader.
I should also note that the sexy time between Blair and Mannie is off-the-charts hot! I understand that Fighter will be out as an audiobook before too long and I can't wait to listen to it.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (posting on 8/30/19)
Fighter is the third book in TM Smith's Survivor series and some of the events overlap with the first two books, Survivor and Lover. You might be able to read Fighter OK as a standalone (the author does a good job of telling you things you need to know from books one and two) but for best enjoyment of the story you really should read Survivor and Lover first.
Mannie suffered unspeakable things at the hands of his family, and later by a man who said he loved him. Blair, an FBI agent, was wounded helping to solve a case that ultimately lead them to Mannie (Howard Manning Tullor, Jr.) who had been missing for years and was presumed dead.
This is kind of an insta-love story but I'm OK with that. Blair is taken with Mannie from the moment they meet and he knows that Mannie is someone he wants to get to know better. Knowing how much Mannie has suffered, Blair uses kid-gloves when approaching him. The tenderness he feels towards Mannie really comes out on the pages of the book.
I was pretty much glued to my e-reader, except when real life things forced me to put it aside. After things in the story settled down, I admit to waiting for another climax in the story and wondering what it could be and if it would ever happen. Maybe my head just wasn’t in the right space but I didn't guess what the "thing" ended up being. Props to TM Smith for adding a twist that made this engrossing story even more so for this reader.
I should also note that the sexy time between Blair and Mannie is off-the-charts hot! I understand that Fighter will be out as an audiobook before too long and I can't wait to listen to it.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com*** (posting on 8/30/19)
August 29, 2019
3.5 Stars
Fighter is the third installment in the Survivor series and it absolutely needs to be read in order, as some events that happen in this book overlap with the previous ones.
I liked Mannie, my heart broke for all he had to endure. No one should have to go through something like that, especially being so young. I was glad he found such a loving partner in Blair, who definitely deserved his HEA. They were sweet together and seemed to bring the best in each other.
I also loved catching up with the leads from the first two books in the series and that the loose ends from the main storyline were resolved.
That said, unfortunately, I struggled a bit with Fighter. First of all, it had been a long time since I read/listened to the first two books and I would've have welcomed a couple of paragraphs as a reminder of who was who and what had happened before at the beginning of the book. I read a lot of books, so I'm bound to forget things here and there. Another thing and this is more of a personal preference, was that this book was more telly than showy, and there were long paragraphs that disrupted the flow of the scene.
Overall, though, the book was entertaining and as I expected, all the loose ends were tied up in the end and it all worked out, so there's that. If you're a fan of the series, you simply can't miss out on this book for that fact alone. I know I was glad I didn't.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Fighter is the third installment in the Survivor series and it absolutely needs to be read in order, as some events that happen in this book overlap with the previous ones.
I liked Mannie, my heart broke for all he had to endure. No one should have to go through something like that, especially being so young. I was glad he found such a loving partner in Blair, who definitely deserved his HEA. They were sweet together and seemed to bring the best in each other.
I also loved catching up with the leads from the first two books in the series and that the loose ends from the main storyline were resolved.
That said, unfortunately, I struggled a bit with Fighter. First of all, it had been a long time since I read/listened to the first two books and I would've have welcomed a couple of paragraphs as a reminder of who was who and what had happened before at the beginning of the book. I read a lot of books, so I'm bound to forget things here and there. Another thing and this is more of a personal preference, was that this book was more telly than showy, and there were long paragraphs that disrupted the flow of the scene.
Overall, though, the book was entertaining and as I expected, all the loose ends were tied up in the end and it all worked out, so there's that. If you're a fan of the series, you simply can't miss out on this book for that fact alone. I know I was glad I didn't.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
August 30, 2019
4 – 4.5 Stars
I have really loved this series from TM Smith and was so excited to get Fighter and Blair’s story! Like the other books, there is a lot of emotion, heart and feeling in this story. It definitely has it’s moments of pain and struggle but also beauty and love. I adored Mannie and Blair, they were just perfect for each other. This book does connect a lot with the previous two so I would definitely recommend reading them first (and they are fantastic!)
Mannie has had a difficult and painful life, he doesn’t trust easily and he doesn’t give his heart away, but there’s something about Blair right from the start. And Blair feels it too, they have a connection instantly but that’s not all it’s about. There is a lot of healing and building of trust and it made my heart so happy to see Mannie open up and grow and love and Blair was the perfect man for him, allowing him to be vulnerable and work through his insecurities. He certainly has a protective streak when it comes to Mannie.
I really loved this journey, raw and real and powerful, this is a story that stays with you. I loved catching up with the characters from the previous books and was completely happy and satisfied with the way it all came together, my questions were answered. A truly amazing series – every book delivers the feels so hard!
I have really loved this series from TM Smith and was so excited to get Fighter and Blair’s story! Like the other books, there is a lot of emotion, heart and feeling in this story. It definitely has it’s moments of pain and struggle but also beauty and love. I adored Mannie and Blair, they were just perfect for each other. This book does connect a lot with the previous two so I would definitely recommend reading them first (and they are fantastic!)
Mannie has had a difficult and painful life, he doesn’t trust easily and he doesn’t give his heart away, but there’s something about Blair right from the start. And Blair feels it too, they have a connection instantly but that’s not all it’s about. There is a lot of healing and building of trust and it made my heart so happy to see Mannie open up and grow and love and Blair was the perfect man for him, allowing him to be vulnerable and work through his insecurities. He certainly has a protective streak when it comes to Mannie.
I really loved this journey, raw and real and powerful, this is a story that stays with you. I loved catching up with the characters from the previous books and was completely happy and satisfied with the way it all came together, my questions were answered. A truly amazing series – every book delivers the feels so hard!
September 22, 2019
Manny is afraid of every shadow, every noise, even though he escaped his prison and is safe at the moment fro his tormentors. Blair, the FBI agent he meets when he goes in to tell his story, is completely captivated by the damaged young man and decides very quickly that he needs to be the one to take care of Manny. Things move rather quickly after that first meeting and the reader will not be disappointed with the direction the story goes in. The only thing I might have liked to see done a bit differently was to take more time to build their relationship, their trust and their comfort level with each other before taking the step into deep feeling and intimacy. But I am not complaining because the characters are totally loveable.
The excellent way that the author wove these 3 stories together made me glad I took the time to read them in order. These characters are all damaged in some way, some much more than others. The way they meet and interact with each other made the stories very real and impactful. Reading of the damage, psychological, emotional and physical broke my heart, but I cheered as each couple found something in each other that began the mending process from all the trauma.
**I received an ARC and am leaving a completely voluntary and unbiased review.**
The excellent way that the author wove these 3 stories together made me glad I took the time to read them in order. These characters are all damaged in some way, some much more than others. The way they meet and interact with each other made the stories very real and impactful. Reading of the damage, psychological, emotional and physical broke my heart, but I cheered as each couple found something in each other that began the mending process from all the trauma.
**I received an ARC and am leaving a completely voluntary and unbiased review.**
February 8, 2022
Trilogy ending.
This is a continuation from Survivor, we meet new characters, and some of the previous characters crop up.
Mannie, we have met in the previous two books, but we haven't heard his side of the abuse and destruction at the hands of those monsters, but we get to hear everything.
Blair and Mannie's relationship has been hinted at, but we get to live it with them, full of angst, love and we get a wonderful conclusion to the whole series. So worth the read. Pick up a copy now.
If you want a book that has no hurt and past, this book isn't for you, but if you want characters with flaws pasts and are basically in need of love and nurture, then pick this book and enjoy the whole series.
Nick J Russo did a great job of the audio as usual. However, I did listen to it at 1.25 on audible.
Fighter
Survivor, Book 3
By: T.M. Smith
Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
Series: Survivor, Book 3
Length: 5 hrs and 51 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚 📚 Story
Read at 1.25 speed on Audible
This is a continuation from Survivor, we meet new characters, and some of the previous characters crop up.
Mannie, we have met in the previous two books, but we haven't heard his side of the abuse and destruction at the hands of those monsters, but we get to hear everything.
Blair and Mannie's relationship has been hinted at, but we get to live it with them, full of angst, love and we get a wonderful conclusion to the whole series. So worth the read. Pick up a copy now.
If you want a book that has no hurt and past, this book isn't for you, but if you want characters with flaws pasts and are basically in need of love and nurture, then pick this book and enjoy the whole series.
Nick J Russo did a great job of the audio as usual. However, I did listen to it at 1.25 on audible.
Fighter
Survivor, Book 3
By: T.M. Smith
Narrated by: Nick J. Russo
Series: Survivor, Book 3
Length: 5 hrs and 51 mins
❤❤❤❤ Overall
🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧 Narration
📚📚📚 📚 Story
Read at 1.25 speed on Audible
June 14, 2020
I received a copy of this book from the author, I was not required to give a favorable review. This is the third book in the series, and you should read the first two to understand everything that is happening in this one. This book brings together so many of the story lines and gives you closure on so much. This is has to do with Mannie/Junior and Blair and the conclusion of all the abuse that he had suffered before he got away, but it also answered questions about what also happened to Shannon in the previous book. But it also brings Blair and Mannie close. They hadn't met before this but Blair could see Mannie had a lot of left over fears and being in hiding helped. But now they need to explore the feelings they have for each other, but also help Mannie make closure from his father & grandfathers abuse. I so enjoyed the ending of this story.
August 5, 2021
HEA Series Ending M\M Blair & Manning's tale
Get Ready to meet FBI Agent Blair Cummings Family, and, the family and friends of Howard Manning Tullor Junior, the 2nd surviving victim of the Columbia River Serial Killer case.
Book 3 takes us into the individual life's of both Manning and Blair long before and Manning contacts FBI Agent Blair during the investigation. detailing Manning's past history with the Serial killer and introducing us to Manning's Arizona family of friends. We meet Blair's family shortly before his sounding in he rescue of Taylor in Book 1, and see his recovery in the hospital and see how his need to protect Manning as an agent evolves into friendship and then something more than friends.
Get Ready to meet FBI Agent Blair Cummings Family, and, the family and friends of Howard Manning Tullor Junior, the 2nd surviving victim of the Columbia River Serial Killer case.
Book 3 takes us into the individual life's of both Manning and Blair long before and Manning contacts FBI Agent Blair during the investigation. detailing Manning's past history with the Serial killer and introducing us to Manning's Arizona family of friends. We meet Blair's family shortly before his sounding in he rescue of Taylor in Book 1, and see his recovery in the hospital and see how his need to protect Manning as an agent evolves into friendship and then something more than friends.
December 31, 2019
4.5 Stars, rounded up
I really enjoyed this series, and with this book everyone's stories intertwined, it was awesome. This series is a definite must read and should be read in order.
As always, Nick J. Russo is magnificent in his narration. Every voice was distinctly original, the feels and emotion he brought to each scene were perfection.
The story of Mannie and Blair was pretty angst free, but with the past history that Mannie was dealing with, there was plenty of story to keep the plot moving forward. Theirs was sort of an instalove story, but it totally worked with their pasts and personalities and was very believable. This may have been my favorite of the series.
I really enjoyed this series, and with this book everyone's stories intertwined, it was awesome. This series is a definite must read and should be read in order.
As always, Nick J. Russo is magnificent in his narration. Every voice was distinctly original, the feels and emotion he brought to each scene were perfection.
The story of Mannie and Blair was pretty angst free, but with the past history that Mannie was dealing with, there was plenty of story to keep the plot moving forward. Theirs was sort of an instalove story, but it totally worked with their pasts and personalities and was very believable. This may have been my favorite of the series.
January 9, 2020
Another wonderful story that sadly, but beautifully, wraps up this wonderful series.
I have read in some other reviews that this cannot stand alone because you would miss crucial parts of the story. I disagree with that: I think it can be read as a standalone, though it's certainly much more enjoyable as a part of the series (mainly because books one and two are so great that who would want not to read them all???).
Mannie and Blair are great characters. I loved how Mannie came back to his full life with Blair's steady patience and how totally Blair devoted all his focus to Mannie's wellbeing.
I also love the theme of chosen family (given that Mannie's biological one is so very awful).
I have read in some other reviews that this cannot stand alone because you would miss crucial parts of the story. I disagree with that: I think it can be read as a standalone, though it's certainly much more enjoyable as a part of the series (mainly because books one and two are so great that who would want not to read them all???).
Mannie and Blair are great characters. I loved how Mannie came back to his full life with Blair's steady patience and how totally Blair devoted all his focus to Mannie's wellbeing.
I also love the theme of chosen family (given that Mannie's biological one is so very awful).
August 27, 2019
I have been with this series from the beginning and this is a must read. This book is full of action, heartbreak, suspense and drama. It’s an emotional roller coaster that I didn’t want to get off and kept me captivated from the beginning. Mannie has suffered big time and I was pulling for him to get a break. Blair is an FBI Agent is wounded helping solve a case that ultimately ends up being centered around Mannie. Blair realizes Mannie has had trauma in his past and he dons kid gloves when interacting with Mannie. I love them as a couple and can’t wait for the next installment of this series!
December 31, 2019
T.M. Smith's Fighter is the third book in the Survivor Trilogy. It is a contemporary m/m romance that mixes suspense, drama, steam, humor and sweetness. The story is entertaining and well written, drawing the reader in and keeping them interested. The characters, primary and secondary, are great and make you care about their fates. Blair and Manny are great together and I highly enjoyed their story.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
I received an advanced reader's copy of the book and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review and recommendation.
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