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Zero Hour #1
Ground Zero
Ground zero, noun: the center or origin of rapid, intense, or violent activity or change.
Heat, humidity, and homicide are things veteran detective Sawyer Key expects to encounter on his first day with the Savannah Police Department, but the hostile reception from his new partner catches him by surprise. Sawyer isn’t a stranger to heartache and recognizes that Royce Locke is a wounded man who’s reeling from a devastating loss. Relentless and patient in all things, Sawyer is determined to make the new partnership work.
Savannah, Georgia is known for her quirky people, oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and antebellum architecture. Beneath the Southern charm and hospitality, festering hatred and violence is soaring with the summer temperatures. Locke and Key find themselves at the epicenter when their first case involves the death of a former shock jock who appears to be the victim of vigilante justice.
Opposites in nearly every way, the two detectives set aside their differences to take back their city and restore law and order. From this reluctant truce, an intense attraction grows that will either tighten or shatter their tenuous bond. Falling for his partner spells inevitable disaster, but Sawyer’s always been a sucker for wounded things. Sawyer could be the key to the life Royce has always wanted, if he’s brave enough to trust him. The fuse is lit, the clock is running, and the zero hour is upon them. Tick tock.
Ground Zero is the first book in the Zero Hour series, which follows Locke and Key’s investigations and evolving relationship. Ground Zero has a happy-for-now ending with no cliffhanger. It contains mature language and sexual content intended for adults 18 and older.
Heat, humidity, and homicide are things veteran detective Sawyer Key expects to encounter on his first day with the Savannah Police Department, but the hostile reception from his new partner catches him by surprise. Sawyer isn’t a stranger to heartache and recognizes that Royce Locke is a wounded man who’s reeling from a devastating loss. Relentless and patient in all things, Sawyer is determined to make the new partnership work.
Savannah, Georgia is known for her quirky people, oak trees draped in Spanish moss, and antebellum architecture. Beneath the Southern charm and hospitality, festering hatred and violence is soaring with the summer temperatures. Locke and Key find themselves at the epicenter when their first case involves the death of a former shock jock who appears to be the victim of vigilante justice.
Opposites in nearly every way, the two detectives set aside their differences to take back their city and restore law and order. From this reluctant truce, an intense attraction grows that will either tighten or shatter their tenuous bond. Falling for his partner spells inevitable disaster, but Sawyer’s always been a sucker for wounded things. Sawyer could be the key to the life Royce has always wanted, if he’s brave enough to trust him. The fuse is lit, the clock is running, and the zero hour is upon them. Tick tock.
Ground Zero is the first book in the Zero Hour series, which follows Locke and Key’s investigations and evolving relationship. Ground Zero has a happy-for-now ending with no cliffhanger. It contains mature language and sexual content intended for adults 18 and older.
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published September 18, 2019
627 people are currently reading
2411 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Nicole Walker
71 books2,006 followersI'm a wife and mother of three teenage kids. I've been married to the same wonderful man for twenty years. I've decided that if I can survive raising three kids then I can survive anything!! I haven't uttered the Mama's curse yet, but it could happen any day now. You know the one..."I hope you have a child just like you someday."
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 580 reviews
April 16, 2021
We all know that detectives are amazing romance characters. They're strong, often brooding and usually have a soft core that they only show to their love interest after a lot of dancing around each other and hiding their emotions.
The same goes for Locke and Key, but there were some surprises in there that made this an especially compelling read.
Sawyer Key is transferred from the sheriff's office to the police department. The reason is a pretty nasty scandal (that is explained in the course of the story). He is partnered with Royce Locke who - besides having recently lost his partner - has a certain reputation as a badass cop who doesn't like to follow rules.
The thing is, both guys have lost someone they loved and while pushing each other away to protect themselves, they realize that the things they have in common are better dealt with as friends than enemies.
But with Locke being allegedly straight and having a womanizing reputation, Sawyer tries to rein in his attraction. However, things turn out way differently and Locke shows sides of himself that not only surprise Key, but make him fall hard for his badass partner.
What I really LOVE about this story is the fact that Sawyer Key is a strong gay character.
His mother is a famous super model (so Sawyer has that certain showstopping quality himself, as you can imagine). He was proudly married to his late husband Vic with whom he not only shared 8 loving years of his life, but also led a public and meaningful marriage. He is confident and knows exactly what he wants, both in theory when looking for a relationship and in reality when his super hot but sexually insecure partner clumsily offers himself on a platter.
He's not ashamed of his needs and acts on them. I found that pretty impressive. It's freeing to see a guy like Sawyer who is respected by his peers and extremely secure in his sexuality, not to mention an extremely competent detective with an educational background in law.
Locke on the other hand, is a sweet mess. He's hot, like a Californian surfer, with sandy blond hair falling into his grey eyes. And while his reputation and demeanor paint him as a legit a**hole, he's actually a very caring and loving guy who doesn't like to let people close to his heart - for various reasons.
I loved how he looks up to Sawyer, seeing a beautiful, strong and yet hurting man and wanting a piece of that aspect of life - seeing as his own is pretty much shattered.
Oh, and there were two crime cases too in this story, but please....I didn't read it for the crime plots ;-)))
All in all, an amazing romance with great characters whose past is unveiled slowly and in layers that keep you guessing until you realize the book has almost reached its end. But I'm happy to say, we get many satisfying answers in this one, even though we part with them at a HFN stage at the end.
Hmm...a bit of a criticism: While Locke and Key were adorable and sexy, their intimate moments could have used a little more spice. Especially as I looked forward to those scenes so much after all their banter.
Still, a wonderful and really well done start of a crime romance series.
5 Stars!
The same goes for Locke and Key, but there were some surprises in there that made this an especially compelling read.
Sawyer Key is transferred from the sheriff's office to the police department. The reason is a pretty nasty scandal (that is explained in the course of the story). He is partnered with Royce Locke who - besides having recently lost his partner - has a certain reputation as a badass cop who doesn't like to follow rules.
The thing is, both guys have lost someone they loved and while pushing each other away to protect themselves, they realize that the things they have in common are better dealt with as friends than enemies.
But with Locke being allegedly straight and having a womanizing reputation, Sawyer tries to rein in his attraction. However, things turn out way differently and Locke shows sides of himself that not only surprise Key, but make him fall hard for his badass partner.
What I really LOVE about this story is the fact that Sawyer Key is a strong gay character.
His mother is a famous super model (so Sawyer has that certain showstopping quality himself, as you can imagine). He was proudly married to his late husband Vic with whom he not only shared 8 loving years of his life, but also led a public and meaningful marriage. He is confident and knows exactly what he wants, both in theory when looking for a relationship and in reality when his super hot but sexually insecure partner clumsily offers himself on a platter.
He's not ashamed of his needs and acts on them. I found that pretty impressive. It's freeing to see a guy like Sawyer who is respected by his peers and extremely secure in his sexuality, not to mention an extremely competent detective with an educational background in law.
Locke on the other hand, is a sweet mess. He's hot, like a Californian surfer, with sandy blond hair falling into his grey eyes. And while his reputation and demeanor paint him as a legit a**hole, he's actually a very caring and loving guy who doesn't like to let people close to his heart - for various reasons.
I loved how he looks up to Sawyer, seeing a beautiful, strong and yet hurting man and wanting a piece of that aspect of life - seeing as his own is pretty much shattered.
Oh, and there were two crime cases too in this story, but please....I didn't read it for the crime plots ;-)))
All in all, an amazing romance with great characters whose past is unveiled slowly and in layers that keep you guessing until you realize the book has almost reached its end. But I'm happy to say, we get many satisfying answers in this one, even though we part with them at a HFN stage at the end.
Hmm...a bit of a criticism: While Locke and Key were adorable and sexy, their intimate moments could have used a little more spice. Especially as I looked forward to those scenes so much after all their banter.
Still, a wonderful and really well done start of a crime romance series.
5 Stars!
January 30, 2020
I very much enjoyed this one.
I am a fan of "crimefighters" and a bit of mystery suspense, so this was right up my ally.
This was a very slow burn, but it was also pretty insta lust/lovey.
What I am trying to say, is that even though it feels like a slow burn, it really isn't because most of this book takes place in just two weeks... So even though these two heroes don't really "come" together until nearly the end, they have only known each other for a few weeks.
I am very curious about the second book...
I am a fan of "crimefighters" and a bit of mystery suspense, so this was right up my ally.
This was a very slow burn, but it was also pretty insta lust/lovey.
What I am trying to say, is that even though it feels like a slow burn, it really isn't because most of this book takes place in just two weeks... So even though these two heroes don't really "come" together until nearly the end, they have only known each other for a few weeks.
I am very curious about the second book...
October 25, 2021
third person, single POV is my worst goddam nightmare.
i feel like you couldn’t make a romance book any less vague if you tried using this technique. i felt like i learned precisely nothing about the characters or the plot due to that technique (as well as all the telling and lack of showing) other than being a detective sounds boring and tedious af.
but i am grateful that this was all from Sawyer’s perspective and not Locke’s bcos that man is an intolerable douche. i kept waiting for the eureka moment when id finally get to the pivotal point of liking and understanding Locke.
*spoiler alert* said pivotal, eureka did not come :)
he was condescending. arrogant. rude. selfish. i thought the more i found out about him, the more id start to like him... but it just made me dislike him more💀 idk how a character could be so one-dimensional and a fully fleshed out dickhead, but Locke achieved that effortlessly.
and this felt so aimless, too. it was just murder case after murder case being investigated then solved pretty quickly. i didn’t understand what the end goal was?
i saw another review say something along the lines of “this couldn’t seem to decide whether this was a slowburn or insta-love?” and that juxtaposed statement really does sum this book up perfectly. for the first roughly 70% of this book, there was no indication of any romance. whatsoever. it honestly felt like i was reading a really shitty detective thriller laid out by a nine year old— i mean one of the killers confesses to murder in his goddam sleep which his girlfriend who he abused conveniently overhears. subtle.
the only ‘romance’ was Sawyer’s generic, surface-level attraction to Locke. i mean, for the majority of the book we don’t even know Locke’s sexual orientation. and their interactions showed zero indication of sexual tension or any type of romantic feelings. it was truly bizarre.
and Locke also flirted with several women throughout the book while showing no interest in Sawyer. while Sawyer was interested in another guy, Levi too. so it just didn’t feel like Locke liked Sawyer romantically while Sawyer only liked Locke for aesthetic reasons.
any development happened off page and we were just told about it in excruciatingly boring detail. like their deep chats as they got to know one another and began to get along... it was so pointless. it could have really elevated the romance portion since it was barely explored for the first 70% of the book— and it wasn’t even slowburn bcos that 70% wasn’t littered with tension, or lingering touches or pining and the like... it was honestly a bunch of unmemorable vignettes of crimes.
so when their romance did begin? it was like being sucker punched in the throat. i wasn’t expecting it and there was literally no build up whatsoever. and it didn’t help that Locke was a douche about it— not sure why i expected anything different, tbh. again, it was truly bizarre to read. i found myself not rooting for them bcos a) i didn’t like Locke so i wasn’t rooting for them, and b) there was no buildup and i wanted more lead up to the relationship before they crossed the line.
i physically could not fathom what Sawyer saw in Locke either. i didn’t understand what drew them together. his mother was telling him “it’s clear your soul speaks to his” and i was like what? where? show me? id very much like to see.
oh, and the entire transition into the romance takes place over three fucking days. i had whiplash. on top of being sucker punched in my throat. my poor neck.
when they have sex, Locke is like “it’s about fucking time.” sir, it had been several days. you have known this man several days and half that time you were rude, obnoxious or distant towards him. or sometimes, all three. sooooo, it was more like “about fucking time this book ended.”
i low-key don’t wanna read the second book but im curious to see if it’ll change my mind on the romance and Locke as a character... we’ll see how long i last💀
p.s. bleaching my eyeballs after reading “crinkled pucker” to describe Sawyer’s arsehole.
i feel like you couldn’t make a romance book any less vague if you tried using this technique. i felt like i learned precisely nothing about the characters or the plot due to that technique (as well as all the telling and lack of showing) other than being a detective sounds boring and tedious af.
but i am grateful that this was all from Sawyer’s perspective and not Locke’s bcos that man is an intolerable douche. i kept waiting for the eureka moment when id finally get to the pivotal point of liking and understanding Locke.
*spoiler alert* said pivotal, eureka did not come :)
he was condescending. arrogant. rude. selfish. i thought the more i found out about him, the more id start to like him... but it just made me dislike him more💀 idk how a character could be so one-dimensional and a fully fleshed out dickhead, but Locke achieved that effortlessly.
and this felt so aimless, too. it was just murder case after murder case being investigated then solved pretty quickly. i didn’t understand what the end goal was?
i saw another review say something along the lines of “this couldn’t seem to decide whether this was a slowburn or insta-love?” and that juxtaposed statement really does sum this book up perfectly. for the first roughly 70% of this book, there was no indication of any romance. whatsoever. it honestly felt like i was reading a really shitty detective thriller laid out by a nine year old— i mean one of the killers confesses to murder in his goddam sleep which his girlfriend who he abused conveniently overhears. subtle.
the only ‘romance’ was Sawyer’s generic, surface-level attraction to Locke. i mean, for the majority of the book we don’t even know Locke’s sexual orientation. and their interactions showed zero indication of sexual tension or any type of romantic feelings. it was truly bizarre.
and Locke also flirted with several women throughout the book while showing no interest in Sawyer. while Sawyer was interested in another guy, Levi too. so it just didn’t feel like Locke liked Sawyer romantically while Sawyer only liked Locke for aesthetic reasons.
any development happened off page and we were just told about it in excruciatingly boring detail. like their deep chats as they got to know one another and began to get along... it was so pointless. it could have really elevated the romance portion since it was barely explored for the first 70% of the book— and it wasn’t even slowburn bcos that 70% wasn’t littered with tension, or lingering touches or pining and the like... it was honestly a bunch of unmemorable vignettes of crimes.
so when their romance did begin? it was like being sucker punched in the throat. i wasn’t expecting it and there was literally no build up whatsoever. and it didn’t help that Locke was a douche about it— not sure why i expected anything different, tbh. again, it was truly bizarre to read. i found myself not rooting for them bcos a) i didn’t like Locke so i wasn’t rooting for them, and b) there was no buildup and i wanted more lead up to the relationship before they crossed the line.
i physically could not fathom what Sawyer saw in Locke either. i didn’t understand what drew them together. his mother was telling him “it’s clear your soul speaks to his” and i was like what? where? show me? id very much like to see.
oh, and the entire transition into the romance takes place over three fucking days. i had whiplash. on top of being sucker punched in my throat. my poor neck.
when they have sex, Locke is like “it’s about fucking time.” sir, it had been several days. you have known this man several days and half that time you were rude, obnoxious or distant towards him. or sometimes, all three. sooooo, it was more like “about fucking time this book ended.”
i low-key don’t wanna read the second book but im curious to see if it’ll change my mind on the romance and Locke as a character... we’ll see how long i last💀
p.s. bleaching my eyeballs after reading “crinkled pucker” to describe Sawyer’s arsehole.
February 5, 2020
I enjoyed this! It's different than most police procedurals I read in that it didn't focus on just one crime. Instead, the focus is on the two detectives as they solve various crimes. New partners who may become more than work partners.
Even though this is a bit of a slow burn, I thought that maybe the guys moved too quickly into the romance part of things considering their backgrounds. Yet, the author did a good job taking them from the animosity of first meeting to where they ended up,
There were more than a handful of typos that, as always, jar me out of a story when I run across them. But, other than that, I liked this story and would like to continue learning more about these characters.
Even though this is a bit of a slow burn, I thought that maybe the guys moved too quickly into the romance part of things considering their backgrounds. Yet, the author did a good job taking them from the animosity of first meeting to where they ended up,
There were more than a handful of typos that, as always, jar me out of a story when I run across them. But, other than that, I liked this story and would like to continue learning more about these characters.
October 10, 2024
This was awesome, but it took a while to come to this realization.
I had my problems with the first half of this book. I liked Sawyer directly but had a hard time really understanding him, but then I did, otherwise I probably wouldn't have stuck with it.
I think the problem is that you only get to hear everything from his perspective. I don't necessarily need a dual POV narrative, but I really missed any insight into Royce Locke here. I really didn't understand what Sawyer saw in him other than the obvious physical attractiveness.
Also, as some reviews say, the alcohol and the distractions by other characters didn't necessarily help me see how these two were ever going to work.
But then, hellooooooo, my goodness, yes there is more to it.
The two cases that the two detectives work on are rather dull. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who comes here for the actual plot background.
It had a certain entertainment value, but mainly because the two of them have to get to grips with each other as new partners.
Anyway, in the end it turned out that I do like this book and am now quite hooked and really need to learn more.
However, there are so many weird names in here and I don't just mean those of the main characters ...
Also, funny for me, I just realized this was my first book by the author, no idea why I didn't had anything earlier....
I'm looking forward to the second book and then finally getting inside Royce's head.
Sawyer instinctively knew Royce Locke was the most wounded thing—man or beast—he’d encountered in his life. If he ventured too close, Locke’s teeth and claws would cut deeper than anything he’d ever experienced, scarring him, and his venom would poison his soul. 🥀🥺🥀
He considered himself a calm, rational man who didn’t let people push his buttons, but Locke somehow managed to burrow beneath his skin in a matter of hours, making Sawyer a stranger to his own mind and body. 🌵😳🌵
His brain screamed “pull back,” but Sawyer threaded his hands through Locke’s silky blond strands instead, holding him still so he could deepen the kiss. Sawyer’s knees weakened when their tongues met, causing him to stumble back against the foyer table. Locke’s arms tightened around Sawyer’s waist, and he shoved a denim leg between Sawyer’s, nestling his firm, toned thigh just beneath his balls. Locke’s body heat seeped through the thin fabric of Sawyer’s mesh basketball shorts. Stars exploded behind his closed eyelids, and his grip on sanity diminished a little more. 🌶️🤤🌶️
I had my problems with the first half of this book. I liked Sawyer directly but had a hard time really understanding him, but then I did, otherwise I probably wouldn't have stuck with it.
I think the problem is that you only get to hear everything from his perspective. I don't necessarily need a dual POV narrative, but I really missed any insight into Royce Locke here. I really didn't understand what Sawyer saw in him other than the obvious physical attractiveness.
Also, as some reviews say, the alcohol and the distractions by other characters didn't necessarily help me see how these two were ever going to work.
But then, hellooooooo, my goodness, yes there is more to it.
The two cases that the two detectives work on are rather dull. I wouldn't recommend this to anyone who comes here for the actual plot background.
It had a certain entertainment value, but mainly because the two of them have to get to grips with each other as new partners.
Anyway, in the end it turned out that I do like this book and am now quite hooked and really need to learn more.
However, there are so many weird names in here and I don't just mean those of the main characters ...
Also, funny for me, I just realized this was my first book by the author, no idea why I didn't had anything earlier....
I'm looking forward to the second book and then finally getting inside Royce's head.
Sawyer instinctively knew Royce Locke was the most wounded thing—man or beast—he’d encountered in his life. If he ventured too close, Locke’s teeth and claws would cut deeper than anything he’d ever experienced, scarring him, and his venom would poison his soul. 🥀🥺🥀
He considered himself a calm, rational man who didn’t let people push his buttons, but Locke somehow managed to burrow beneath his skin in a matter of hours, making Sawyer a stranger to his own mind and body. 🌵😳🌵
His brain screamed “pull back,” but Sawyer threaded his hands through Locke’s silky blond strands instead, holding him still so he could deepen the kiss. Sawyer’s knees weakened when their tongues met, causing him to stumble back against the foyer table. Locke’s arms tightened around Sawyer’s waist, and he shoved a denim leg between Sawyer’s, nestling his firm, toned thigh just beneath his balls. Locke’s body heat seeped through the thin fabric of Sawyer’s mesh basketball shorts. Stars exploded behind his closed eyelids, and his grip on sanity diminished a little more. 🌶️🤤🌶️
November 20, 2019
There were many things that made me roll my eyes or cringe while I was reading this book.
Just to name one, I refuse to believe that every woman in Savannah, Georgia addresses perfect strangers as “honey” and “sugar” and makes appreciative, inappropriate comments to men she’s just met; I’m not even kidding, I’m pretty sure the only ones who didn’t were the MC’s mother, the MCs’ lesbian chief, and the victims’ mothers.
To name two, the dialogue was sometimes a bit awkward, with characters spouting things in a way that made clear the author wanted the reader to have a certain impression or insight into the characters’ thinking and motivation, but the delivery was clumsy and felt forced, instead of flowing smoothly into the narrative.
There were also a couple of editing issues. Not many, but some really pulled me out of the story, like the two sentences in the first person when the entire book is narrated in the third person.
In general, the premise and idea are very good, but the execution could’ve been better.
I’m giving it 3 stars anyway for a few reasons. The “good premise, bad execution” is one of the scenarios I find more frustrating when I’m reading a book, but this time it was more on the surface than that deep sense of disappointment I usually associate with the experience. In other words, the execution could’ve been much better and if that had been the case, I would’ve loved this book, but it wasn’t that bad either. And this brings me to the second reason for my rating, this book has good bones. I liked the characters, their background stories and their dynamic, the plot structure was different from the usual mystery novel, and everything was combined in a way that kept my interest.
Despite the obvious (to me) flaws, I enjoyed the time I spent reading this book a lot and I look forward to the next one. For that alone, I can’t bring myself to give it less than 3 stars.
Just to name one, I refuse to believe that every woman in Savannah, Georgia addresses perfect strangers as “honey” and “sugar” and makes appreciative, inappropriate comments to men she’s just met; I’m not even kidding, I’m pretty sure the only ones who didn’t were the MC’s mother, the MCs’ lesbian chief, and the victims’ mothers.
To name two, the dialogue was sometimes a bit awkward, with characters spouting things in a way that made clear the author wanted the reader to have a certain impression or insight into the characters’ thinking and motivation, but the delivery was clumsy and felt forced, instead of flowing smoothly into the narrative.
There were also a couple of editing issues. Not many, but some really pulled me out of the story, like the two sentences in the first person when the entire book is narrated in the third person.
In general, the premise and idea are very good, but the execution could’ve been better.
I’m giving it 3 stars anyway for a few reasons. The “good premise, bad execution” is one of the scenarios I find more frustrating when I’m reading a book, but this time it was more on the surface than that deep sense of disappointment I usually associate with the experience. In other words, the execution could’ve been much better and if that had been the case, I would’ve loved this book, but it wasn’t that bad either. And this brings me to the second reason for my rating, this book has good bones. I liked the characters, their background stories and their dynamic, the plot structure was different from the usual mystery novel, and everything was combined in a way that kept my interest.
Despite the obvious (to me) flaws, I enjoyed the time I spent reading this book a lot and I look forward to the next one. For that alone, I can’t bring myself to give it less than 3 stars.
April 1, 2023
Can’t believe I’m saying this - but I think this book single handedly got me to change my opinion on single POV books.
I used to be all about dual pov, I wanted to know exactly what both characters were thinking and feeling at all times. This book was told in Sawyer’s POV and without being spoon fed exactly what Royce was thinking/feeling at every moment just added to the build up and tension between the two of them and I loved it. Trying to read between the lines and figuring out where Royce was mentally just added so much more to the book I loved it.
A few days ago I would have told you third person single POV was my least favorite but here I am loving this book so who even knows?
I used to be all about dual pov, I wanted to know exactly what both characters were thinking and feeling at all times. This book was told in Sawyer’s POV and without being spoon fed exactly what Royce was thinking/feeling at every moment just added to the build up and tension between the two of them and I loved it. Trying to read between the lines and figuring out where Royce was mentally just added so much more to the book I loved it.
A few days ago I would have told you third person single POV was my least favorite but here I am loving this book so who even knows?
February 3, 2022
I know a lot of my gr friends love this, but I'm annoying when it comes to detective stories and this one had lots of gaps for me, I think.
I enjoyed it, but I compare it to other books and it's lacking.
My reasons:
1. Too insta and they are not shifters. I understand attraction, but Sawyer couldn't stop thinking about Locke's ass, body, face, etc., in the middle of a crime with a body right there. No my dude, nope.
2. Locke was confusing as hell, in three days he changed his attitude everyday and yes, Swayer told him about it, kudos to that, but I was still confused, maybe his pov would have helped?
3. The mystery was unrealistic, crime isn't solved that easily and maybe they tried to make Sawyer some type of "miracle worker", I didn't buy it, too ott.
4. People are not that agreeable to help, Sawyer asked for a video or a testimony and everyone was like: yes, of course you'll have it in an hour. Come on!!!!! Some people help, the majority don't because they get scared of the consequences if they do! Not believable.
5. Sawyer and Locke had golden dicks, everywhere they went, every person they met had the hots for them, no thank you.
6. Everything was perfect, everyone was accepting, the family, coworkers, people on the street, nooop.
But, I did enjoy the writing, the diversity of the characters and some dynamics. I am curious about what happened to Marc and what comes next, I don't know if that curiosity is enough to make pick the next book though, we'll see. 🤓
I enjoyed it, but I compare it to other books and it's lacking.
My reasons:
1. Too insta and they are not shifters. I understand attraction, but Sawyer couldn't stop thinking about Locke's ass, body, face, etc., in the middle of a crime with a body right there. No my dude, nope.
2. Locke was confusing as hell, in three days he changed his attitude everyday and yes, Swayer told him about it, kudos to that, but I was still confused, maybe his pov would have helped?
3. The mystery was unrealistic, crime isn't solved that easily and maybe they tried to make Sawyer some type of "miracle worker", I didn't buy it, too ott.
4. People are not that agreeable to help, Sawyer asked for a video or a testimony and everyone was like: yes, of course you'll have it in an hour. Come on!!!!! Some people help, the majority don't because they get scared of the consequences if they do! Not believable.
5. Sawyer and Locke had golden dicks, everywhere they went, every person they met had the hots for them, no thank you.
6. Everything was perfect, everyone was accepting, the family, coworkers, people on the street, nooop.
But, I did enjoy the writing, the diversity of the characters and some dynamics. I am curious about what happened to Marc and what comes next, I don't know if that curiosity is enough to make pick the next book though, we'll see. 🤓
dnf
February 17, 2020DNF at 51%
I love a good mystery, but since these guys solve several cases instead of just one, the solutions to the cases felt too simple.
If I had felt a true connection to the characters I wouldn't have minded all that much, but I just don't really like these guys.... :(
I love a good mystery, but since these guys solve several cases instead of just one, the solutions to the cases felt too simple.
If I had felt a true connection to the characters I wouldn't have minded all that much, but I just don't really like these guys.... :(
December 22, 2019
I need book two.
This one has just rocketed up the romantic suspense list I have in my head to sit very close to the top of the tree and straight onto my Favourites shelf.
It's definitely my favourite of Aimee's most excellent catalogue of books, overtaking Josh and Gabe's Blissville simply because I utterly adore cop/detective/FBI etc partners falling for each other.
While the investigations themselves weren't as big a part of the suspense element as is sometimes the case, each individual one still produced some surprises.
But the killer factor of this new series is Locke and Key themselves. The chemistry is off the charts, the hurt/comfort is just going to be epic I know and there's enough of a past experience fight for the relationship to not be an easy one.
Bring it on!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
This one has just rocketed up the romantic suspense list I have in my head to sit very close to the top of the tree and straight onto my Favourites shelf.
It's definitely my favourite of Aimee's most excellent catalogue of books, overtaking Josh and Gabe's Blissville simply because I utterly adore cop/detective/FBI etc partners falling for each other.
While the investigations themselves weren't as big a part of the suspense element as is sometimes the case, each individual one still produced some surprises.
But the killer factor of this new series is Locke and Key themselves. The chemistry is off the charts, the hurt/comfort is just going to be epic I know and there's enough of a past experience fight for the relationship to not be an easy one.
Bring it on!
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
April 23, 2024
Book safety, content warnings, and tropes down below.
Sawyer instinctively knew Royce Locke was the most wounded thing—man or beast—he’d encountered in his life.
I seem to be having the unfortunate experience of reading several books lately with main characters I really don’t care for. Royce Locke is described as a moody asshole and a pain to work with, and while he is a little grumpy, I found Sawyer to be pretty insufferable. For a former lawyer and a police detective he is awfully judgemental and continuously assumed the worst about people, including accusing Royce of being homophobic. It got old really fast. It didn’t help that, while physically attracted to Royce, he tried his best to be emotionally (and physically) attracted to another man, including going on a date with said man the same day he had sex with Royce. 1. I can’t understand asking someone on a date while actively lusting after your coworker, 2. going on a date with a sweet man who genuinly wants to date you when the bodily fluids from someone else has barely been washed off you isn’t the most endearing behavior.
I felt *slightly* better about Sawyer by the end, but Royce is the one I care about, and after finding out book 2 is from his POV I *might* read that as well. Hard maybe.
The narration wasn’t good so I had a hard time following/caring about the actual case solving and mystery. Not my favorite book obviously, but my issues with the narrator and icky (to me) characters are the main reasons.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Romantic suspense
Police procedural
Enemies to lovers
Detective partners
Past trauma
Widower
Slow burn
Bi awakening
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Graphically detailed murder crime scene
Racist rhetoric (not from MCs)
Misogynistic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic slur
Suicide of MC’s past work partner and best friend (off page, past)
Feelings of guilt and grief
Brief mention of the death of MC’s husband (cancer, past, some details)
Homophobic rhetoric
Mentions of murder victim being victim of past domestic abuse
Mentions of past underage drinking
Kissing and fondling while only one MC is intoxicated
Binge drinking to deal with emotional challenges (few details)
Injured MC (gunshot wound)
Gun violence
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Yes. MC1 flirts with other men, checks out and fantasizes about someone else, and goes on a date with someone else after the first hookup with MC2. The date was planned before they hooked up. The date ends with a cheek kiss. Several references to MC2 hooking up with women. Unclear if this happens while the MCs know each other or not. MC2 gets a couple lap dances (off page) as a part of working on a case. By the end of the book (after MC1’s date with other man) they agree to be together.
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, single
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles in book 1
Main characters’ age: 33 and 34
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 317
“You make strings look damn good, Sawyer. Teach me to be the kind of guy who deserves you. Are you patient enough to stand beside me when my fight-or-flight instincts kick in? It’s all I know, and miracles won’t happen overnight. I never again want to see disappointment in your eyes and know that I put it there. I’ve been an insensitive dick to you many times since we met, but I’m not toying with you. I want this.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
Sawyer instinctively knew Royce Locke was the most wounded thing—man or beast—he’d encountered in his life.
I seem to be having the unfortunate experience of reading several books lately with main characters I really don’t care for. Royce Locke is described as a moody asshole and a pain to work with, and while he is a little grumpy, I found Sawyer to be pretty insufferable. For a former lawyer and a police detective he is awfully judgemental and continuously assumed the worst about people, including accusing Royce of being homophobic. It got old really fast. It didn’t help that, while physically attracted to Royce, he tried his best to be emotionally (and physically) attracted to another man, including going on a date with said man the same day he had sex with Royce. 1. I can’t understand asking someone on a date while actively lusting after your coworker, 2. going on a date with a sweet man who genuinly wants to date you when the bodily fluids from someone else has barely been washed off you isn’t the most endearing behavior.
I felt *slightly* better about Sawyer by the end, but Royce is the one I care about, and after finding out book 2 is from his POV I *might* read that as well. Hard maybe.
The narration wasn’t good so I had a hard time following/caring about the actual case solving and mystery. Not my favorite book obviously, but my issues with the narrator and icky (to me) characters are the main reasons.
⬇️ Blanket spoiler warning ⬇️
⚠️ Tropes & tags ⚠️
Romantic suspense
Police procedural
Enemies to lovers
Detective partners
Past trauma
Widower
Slow burn
Bi awakening
⚠️ Content warning ⚠️
Graphically detailed murder crime scene
Racist rhetoric (not from MCs)
Misogynistic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic rhetoric (not from MCs)
Homophobic slur
Suicide of MC’s past work partner and best friend (off page, past)
Feelings of guilt and grief
Brief mention of the death of MC’s husband (cancer, past, some details)
Homophobic rhetoric
Mentions of murder victim being victim of past domestic abuse
Mentions of past underage drinking
Kissing and fondling while only one MC is intoxicated
Binge drinking to deal with emotional challenges (few details)
Injured MC (gunshot wound)
Gun violence
⚠️Book safety ⚠️
Cheating: No
Other person drama: Yes. MC1 flirts with other men, checks out and fantasizes about someone else, and goes on a date with someone else after the first hookup with MC2. The date was planned before they hooked up. The date ends with a cheek kiss. Several references to MC2 hooking up with women. Unclear if this happens while the MCs know each other or not. MC2 gets a couple lap dances (off page) as a part of working on a case. By the end of the book (after MC1’s date with other man) they agree to be together.
Breakup: No
POV: 3rd person, single
Genre: Romantic suspense
Pairing: M/M
Strict roles or versatile: Strict roles in book 1
Main characters’ age: 33 and 34
Series: Series
Kindle Unlimited: Yes
Pages: 317
“You make strings look damn good, Sawyer. Teach me to be the kind of guy who deserves you. Are you patient enough to stand beside me when my fight-or-flight instincts kick in? It’s all I know, and miracles won’t happen overnight. I never again want to see disappointment in your eyes and know that I put it there. I’ve been an insensitive dick to you many times since we met, but I’m not toying with you. I want this.”
You can find most of my reviews on Instagram as well: https://www.instagram.com/booksafety?...
October 16, 2019
**3.5 stars**
Sometimes, I can’t explain why I enjoyed a book, but the most important is that I read for escapism and this one did the trick.
Zero Hour is a new series (no idea how many books) about a sexy MM romance involving 2 detectives from the Savannah Police Department falling for each other. They are both different in characters and in background, but the chemistry is there.
Locke is a guy with “attitude”, likes to flirt and giving the impression he doesn’t care, but he has just lost his work partner whom he considered a close friend and he’s deeply wounded by that and hostile at the idea of having a new partner. Sawyer Key, a nurturer and a patient man, lost his husband a couple of years ago but is ready to move and this new assignment can be what he needs.
Both MCs are endearing in their own way. They don’t back-off from each other even though they are aware of their fears and baggages. The banter between them and with their colleagues is light and quite funny and their time together is full of hot and sexy times. The pace is good for me, I’m starting to root for them and enjoying the journey of their relationship.
No big mysteries nor depths in the plot of their investigations, but that’s not the point. A tiny bit OTT sometimes, but not enough to deter me from having a good time. I kept turning the pages and now that I have finished “Ground Zero”, I’m ready to reach “Ground one” with them.
ARC of “Ground Zero” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
PS : I cross my fingers that promoting a book in a fiction won't become a trend - I don't like commercials interrupting the flow of a story as a good marketing target I am not !
Sometimes, I can’t explain why I enjoyed a book, but the most important is that I read for escapism and this one did the trick.
Zero Hour is a new series (no idea how many books) about a sexy MM romance involving 2 detectives from the Savannah Police Department falling for each other. They are both different in characters and in background, but the chemistry is there.
Locke is a guy with “attitude”, likes to flirt and giving the impression he doesn’t care, but he has just lost his work partner whom he considered a close friend and he’s deeply wounded by that and hostile at the idea of having a new partner. Sawyer Key, a nurturer and a patient man, lost his husband a couple of years ago but is ready to move and this new assignment can be what he needs.
Both MCs are endearing in their own way. They don’t back-off from each other even though they are aware of their fears and baggages. The banter between them and with their colleagues is light and quite funny and their time together is full of hot and sexy times. The pace is good for me, I’m starting to root for them and enjoying the journey of their relationship.
No big mysteries nor depths in the plot of their investigations, but that’s not the point. A tiny bit OTT sometimes, but not enough to deter me from having a good time. I kept turning the pages and now that I have finished “Ground Zero”, I’m ready to reach “Ground one” with them.
ARC of “Ground Zero” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
PS : I cross my fingers that promoting a book in a fiction won't become a trend - I don't like commercials interrupting the flow of a story as a good marketing target I am not !
April 1, 2023
This had a great vibe and I’m surprised I haven’t heard of this series before. I loved the slightly different take to the murder mysteries - solving multiple cases in what I imagine is a more realistic way than being the big shot hero’s who do everything themselves and take down entire mass criminal syndicates single handedly. When the first murder was solved pretty quickly and moved on to the next I felt a little surprised but it worked really well.
I loved the connection between these characters and it being single POV and not knowing what was going through Lockes head was brilliant. Was it’s own mystery really. Kept the tension and anticipation between them nice and high. The mix between romance and mystery was spot on and Locke was the brooding grump without being a mean bully which was lovely. Definitely keen to get into book 2.
I loved the connection between these characters and it being single POV and not knowing what was going through Lockes head was brilliant. Was it’s own mystery really. Kept the tension and anticipation between them nice and high. The mix between romance and mystery was spot on and Locke was the brooding grump without being a mean bully which was lovely. Definitely keen to get into book 2.
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February 20, 2022
i wanted to like this but, unfortunately, i found myself skimming through most of this book. nothing really pulled me in, but i'm still planning to read the next book, hoping it'll get better by then. 😭
Want to read
September 20, 2019LOL, characters' names are Locke and Key.
Read
February 10, 2020I seem to be in the minority with this one but this book didn’t work for me. I’m not going to rate it because I skimmed a lot. It seems like maybe this just isn’t an author for me. I’ve tried a few others of hers and felt the same so I think it’s time to admit we aren’t a good fit. And that’s ok. 😀
dnf-or-hated
September 27, 2019I'm disappointed, but at 50% I still have no connection to the story or the characters, and I should. No one in this so far is likable, both main characters are suffering from horrible losses, but there's been no hurt/comfort. I realize this is the start of a new series, and hopefully the later stories will have the main characters gel a bit better.
For now, I'm going to mark as DNF, and maybe someday try again further into the series.
No rating.
For now, I'm going to mark as DNF, and maybe someday try again further into the series.
No rating.
September 24, 2019
When I saw the names of the characters were Locke and Key, I knew I had to check the book out. And while the names fit perfectly together, the men carrying them took a while to warm up to each other. This is a beginning for two men who carry a lot of baggage, who struggle with life's challenges and inner turmoil, who uphold the law and see the worst of humanity everyday. Told in single POV, the book is suspenseful, fast-paced, steamy and at times hilarious! Yes, I enjoyed humorous repartee this time around! LOL
As a new detective Sawyer Key has to hit the streets running - new case, new partner and a new start. Well, both detectives are in for a big surprise. Sawyer Key has a weakness for wounded souls, and Royce Locke's pain is bleeding out of him if one looks close enough. Royce Locke thinks he will run the new partner off but he might have bitten more than he can chew - Sawyer Key is relentless, resilient, patient and can give as good as he gets. Thus starts a sarcastic, tumultuous and at times confusing partnership that holds many painful secrets, but in the end both men can't escape the building sexual tension and attraction that leads them into bed and into each other's confidences. It might not be love at first sight or love at all yet, but it can lead to something more if both men let it.
I enjoyed their investigative work. The cases were not complicated but still interesting to learn who and the what of them. It will be fun to see their relationship develop. I can't wait to read the next one! I recommend it.
As a new detective Sawyer Key has to hit the streets running - new case, new partner and a new start. Well, both detectives are in for a big surprise. Sawyer Key has a weakness for wounded souls, and Royce Locke's pain is bleeding out of him if one looks close enough. Royce Locke thinks he will run the new partner off but he might have bitten more than he can chew - Sawyer Key is relentless, resilient, patient and can give as good as he gets. Thus starts a sarcastic, tumultuous and at times confusing partnership that holds many painful secrets, but in the end both men can't escape the building sexual tension and attraction that leads them into bed and into each other's confidences. It might not be love at first sight or love at all yet, but it can lead to something more if both men let it.
I enjoyed their investigative work. The cases were not complicated but still interesting to learn who and the what of them. It will be fun to see their relationship develop. I can't wait to read the next one! I recommend it.
April 15, 2020
This is a 3 star book bc see my notes below. It's not the smoothest writing I've ever read. I give it credit for being realistic in terms of MM not over the top, but the detective stuff wasn't at all gripping or thrilling or even all that mysterious. It was just background. But if it was just background, then why is there so much of it? I thought at first that this would be a thriller mystery type of thing, only to realize it's several cases strung together, each one easily closed.
Then I think, OK let's focus on the romance, but the romance was just OK. There was some anticipation in the beginning when the 2 guys first meet, but then it's just meh. Even the sex was just meh.
Finally, I judge books by whether I'd read the author again. This story of Key and Locke continues. But I will not be continuing with them or with the author.
So, at most, 3 stars.
Then I think, OK let's focus on the romance, but the romance was just OK. There was some anticipation in the beginning when the 2 guys first meet, but then it's just meh. Even the sex was just meh.
Finally, I judge books by whether I'd read the author again. This story of Key and Locke continues. But I will not be continuing with them or with the author.
So, at most, 3 stars.
February 8, 2022
An MM insta-lusty romance, new partner, detective murder mystery.
The multiple mysteries were solved unrealistically fast. The insta-lust felt off for a multiple of reasons, but mostly because Sawyer was still grieving the death of his husband of eight years.
The multiple mysteries were solved unrealistically fast. The insta-lust felt off for a multiple of reasons, but mostly because Sawyer was still grieving the death of his husband of eight years.
Sawyer had only known Locke for three fucking days, and much of the time was spent wondering what the man tasted like.I enjoyed reading it, but not sure I'll continue the series.
December 5, 2025
For a Cozy Cop Procedural this was pretty good. Coming from being use to one case per book. To having so many open cases that felt like months of work. That doesn't garner understanding for this career field. I just like being in the know. How cases are solved!
May 11, 2023
Cops Locke and Key get some action !
In this set opener, the cases our cops are working are fascinating, complicated and hold our interest with tension, violence and suspense.
Royce Locke has lost his work partner to suicide, and he’s shattered.
His new work partner is Sawyer Key, a gay man who lost his husband to cancer two years prior.
Each man has attitude and swagger, which gives us sass, banter and snark. The story and anticipation are entertaining and attention grabbing. We look forward to every new day with them. Key has a marvelous, strong Mother, and Locke’s family is a sad bunch of folks.
Our tough guys finally give in to desire, first times for Locke, with scorch and sizzle.
* These guys are not romantics, but fierce in their passion.
The men don’t agree to try for a relationship til late in this book, but it will continue in the next book.
I look forward to more from these serious, crime fighting cops. I like Aimee Nicole Walker’s books.
Enjoy !
=====
In this set opener, the cases our cops are working are fascinating, complicated and hold our interest with tension, violence and suspense.
Royce Locke has lost his work partner to suicide, and he’s shattered.
His new work partner is Sawyer Key, a gay man who lost his husband to cancer two years prior.
Each man has attitude and swagger, which gives us sass, banter and snark. The story and anticipation are entertaining and attention grabbing. We look forward to every new day with them. Key has a marvelous, strong Mother, and Locke’s family is a sad bunch of folks.
Our tough guys finally give in to desire, first times for Locke, with scorch and sizzle.
* These guys are not romantics, but fierce in their passion.
The men don’t agree to try for a relationship til late in this book, but it will continue in the next book.
I look forward to more from these serious, crime fighting cops. I like Aimee Nicole Walker’s books.
Enjoy !
=====
did-not-finish
October 25, 2024Time of death: 16%
There's awkward writing and then there's awkward writing. You don't even have to look for it to see it, just open a random page and start reading. The author likes to describe things in as many word as she can in as many sentences as possible. Some gems:
- The woman was mentioned at least ten times in the chapter before, by name and surname both.
- A female witness about a cop she met earlier. Who talks like that?
I couldn't bring myself to read a moment longer, it tested the limits of how far to the back of my head I'm able to roll my eyes. I was going to push through it in hopes the story or the characters might turn out okay. I was hoping a little bit of bitching to my GR friends and searching for the right .gif reaction would make it fun enough even with the writing such as it is. But no - I give up. There are books I want to read and not enough time already, so I'm not going to waste my time on a book I'm not enjoying one bit.
There's awkward writing and then there's awkward writing. You don't even have to look for it to see it, just open a random page and start reading. The author likes to describe things in as many word as she can in as many sentences as possible. Some gems:
“The sexy man who had to restrain Roland’s dried-up agent, Shirley Hanover."
- The woman was mentioned at least ten times in the chapter before, by name and surname both.
“Where’s the dark-haired Adonis?”
- A female witness about a cop she met earlier. Who talks like that?
I couldn't bring myself to read a moment longer, it tested the limits of how far to the back of my head I'm able to roll my eyes. I was going to push through it in hopes the story or the characters might turn out okay. I was hoping a little bit of bitching to my GR friends and searching for the right .gif reaction would make it fun enough even with the writing such as it is. But no - I give up. There are books I want to read and not enough time already, so I'm not going to waste my time on a book I'm not enjoying one bit.
October 11, 2023
I liked this book well enough. However, I think I have read one or two too many ANW books in a to short time period because I'm sort of tired of her writing style.
Locke and Key (This is hilarious), were two well thought out characters and I found myself really rooting for them to get together and being happy. Unfortunately this is a series so we are still in the beginning of their relationship. I'm not sure I'll have the patience to wait but I'm most likely going to read the following books. After a wait. A long wait. I need a break from ANW for a while.
Reread October 2023 and you all have to know that my feelings for this has completely changed. I love these guys. So I'm changing this from a 3 star to a 5 star rating.
Locke and Key (This is hilarious), were two well thought out characters and I found myself really rooting for them to get together and being happy. Unfortunately this is a series so we are still in the beginning of their relationship. I'm not sure I'll have the patience to wait but I'm most likely going to read the following books. After a wait. A long wait. I need a break from ANW for a while.
Reread October 2023 and you all have to know that my feelings for this has completely changed. I love these guys. So I'm changing this from a 3 star to a 5 star rating.
October 21, 2019
Possible mild spoilers ahead
My second book by this author and I still can’t decide if I like her style, or not. This isn’t a bad book and I did enjoy it but it was rushed and that spoilt it quite a bit.
Locke is a bit of a fickle bugger. Lots of whiplash with his characterisation, hot and cold one minute, quite sweet the next. Sawyer, love him. Poor sweetie has been through so much and I just wanted to hug him and make it all better. Together these two have some great chemistry and I wish the author had left it there in this book. She didn’t. They hook up within a couple of days of meeting then a couple of weeks later they have some disappointingly quick sexy times with quite a bit of telling (hate that), then a day later they are discussing a relationship. It’s a new series what was the rush? The fast paced relationship development didn’t feel realistic or organic and that’s a pity. I love plenty of UST in my books and this started off very nicely on that front only to fizzle out. It’s not often I can say the sex spoilt it. The sex did spoilt it. It was too soon and too fast and there was no foreplay to add to the anticipation. I am thankful that there weren’t any “I love you’s” said, that would have been too much for me. I wouldn’t have been surprised if there had been though, it was that type of book.
This is a romantic suspense series involving two police offices so of course there had to be crimes. In this book there were two. Both solved very quickly-the first one at around the 30% mark-with a couple of convenient coincidences to help ease things along. I think investigating and solving one crime would have made for better pacing, or to have one of the crimes as an over arching plot continuing on in to the next book(s). Neither crime had enough meat on its bones to be that satisfying and I felt like they were used as props in the Locke and Key show rather than being important in their own right.
For me this book tried to do too much in one go and in doing that didn’t really hit the mark. In other words there were several unsatisfying near misses plot wise and that was a shame. I do want to make one more point. One that covers one of my biggest pet peeves in fiction and that is miraculous recovery from injury. What I’m trying to say is that if someone has major surgery under general anaesthetic they would not be up and running about less than twenty four hours later. In this instance it became another hurried plot device that apart from being extremely unrealistic wasn’t required. Save the kitchen sink for another book.
All in all an enjoyable but not mind blowing read. I might read the next book in this series, I might not. Until then I’m off to buy a neck collar for the whiplash Locke gave me.
*2.75 Stars* rounded up
My second book by this author and I still can’t decide if I like her style, or not. This isn’t a bad book and I did enjoy it but it was rushed and that spoilt it quite a bit.
Locke is a bit of a fickle bugger. Lots of whiplash with his characterisation, hot and cold one minute, quite sweet the next. Sawyer, love him. Poor sweetie has been through so much and I just wanted to hug him and make it all better. Together these two have some great chemistry and I wish the author had left it there in this book. She didn’t. They hook up within a couple of days of meeting then a couple of weeks later they have some disappointingly quick sexy times with quite a bit of telling (hate that), then a day later they are discussing a relationship. It’s a new series what was the rush? The fast paced relationship development didn’t feel realistic or organic and that’s a pity. I love plenty of UST in my books and this started off very nicely on that front only to fizzle out. It’s not often I can say the sex spoilt it. The sex did spoilt it. It was too soon and too fast and there was no foreplay to add to the anticipation. I am thankful that there weren’t any “I love you’s” said, that would have been too much for me. I wouldn’t have been surprised if there had been though, it was that type of book.
This is a romantic suspense series involving two police offices so of course there had to be crimes. In this book there were two. Both solved very quickly-the first one at around the 30% mark-with a couple of convenient coincidences to help ease things along. I think investigating and solving one crime would have made for better pacing, or to have one of the crimes as an over arching plot continuing on in to the next book(s). Neither crime had enough meat on its bones to be that satisfying and I felt like they were used as props in the Locke and Key show rather than being important in their own right.
For me this book tried to do too much in one go and in doing that didn’t really hit the mark. In other words there were several unsatisfying near misses plot wise and that was a shame. I do want to make one more point. One that covers one of my biggest pet peeves in fiction and that is miraculous recovery from injury. What I’m trying to say is that if someone has major surgery under general anaesthetic they would not be up and running about less than twenty four hours later. In this instance it became another hurried plot device that apart from being extremely unrealistic wasn’t required. Save the kitchen sink for another book.
All in all an enjoyable but not mind blowing read. I might read the next book in this series, I might not. Until then I’m off to buy a neck collar for the whiplash Locke gave me.
*2.75 Stars* rounded up
November 15, 2019
4.5 stars!! L❤️VED IT!! 🤩 This was one of those slow-burn romances where you don't really mind the slowness, because you can literally feel the smoldering chemistry between the MCs in every page 🔥 🔥. But it wasn't just the heat that grabbed me and kept me glued to the story, it was the MCs themselves. Sawyer Key, dealing with the loss of his husband is looking for a fresh start; new job, new precinct and new partner. His new partner Royce Locke, however from the very first day tries his best to antagonize him and keep him at a distance. But Key can see that there is more than meets the eye behind Locke's demeanor and distance. Through humor, sass and confidence he starts to crack Locke's impregnable facade and to his surprise what he finds is a very attractive and vulnerable man. To complicate matters, they are in the middle of a load of active homicide cases with dangerous criminals on the loose.
As the two go through the cases and try to solve it, we readers are privy to Key's POV and see his challenges both on a personal and professional level. How he tries but fails to keep Locke at a professional distance; what Locke's sometimes hot and cold behavior does to his already scarred heart; how despite Locke's warnings he can't stop himself from developing feelings for him. He is the "Key" to "Locke"'s heart ❤️. We can see it, but can Locke? 💞
The cases are fairly simple and add the necessary backdrop to Key and Locke's world. It gives a little action and suspense to the plot, but it's not very angsty. There is plenty of emotion and angst due to the MCs painful pasts. There is wit and humor too in addition to some really cool supporting characters. The slow-burning steam and sizzle brings about an explosive chemistry 🔥🔥between the two which is mostly explored towards the end of the book, but it leaves one wanting more.. 😍 due to the HFN ending. Highly recommended to all fans of Ms Walker (like me 🤩) and fans of police/detective-romance-tropes👍👍
I can't wait for the sequel to find out what's next for this duo🤩. Dangerous cases?😱Moving in?😉 Marriage? 😍
As the two go through the cases and try to solve it, we readers are privy to Key's POV and see his challenges both on a personal and professional level. How he tries but fails to keep Locke at a professional distance; what Locke's sometimes hot and cold behavior does to his already scarred heart; how despite Locke's warnings he can't stop himself from developing feelings for him. He is the "Key" to "Locke"'s heart ❤️. We can see it, but can Locke? 💞
The cases are fairly simple and add the necessary backdrop to Key and Locke's world. It gives a little action and suspense to the plot, but it's not very angsty. There is plenty of emotion and angst due to the MCs painful pasts. There is wit and humor too in addition to some really cool supporting characters. The slow-burning steam and sizzle brings about an explosive chemistry 🔥🔥between the two which is mostly explored towards the end of the book, but it leaves one wanting more.. 😍 due to the HFN ending. Highly recommended to all fans of Ms Walker (like me 🤩) and fans of police/detective-romance-tropes👍👍
I can't wait for the sequel to find out what's next for this duo🤩. Dangerous cases?😱Moving in?😉 Marriage? 😍
May 21, 2020
DNF @ 7%.
I should have known better than to a) read a book from an author that is two for two on 1-star reads for me and b) has Locke & Key as the two MCs surnames and no one is making fun of them/the book isn't a satire.
It should be noted that I am horrible with names. Therefore, I'm not a huge fan of when there are a) an unnecessary amount of characters and b) first and last names are used for characters.
In the first chapter, there are 10 characters mentioned:
1. Sawyer Key (MC) 🏳️🌈
2. Keely Andrews (officer)
3. Royce Key (MC) 🏳️🌈
4. Ellen Rigby (chief of police) 🏳️🌈
5. Sherry (Ellen's wife) 🏳️🌈
6. Robert Jones aka Bobby (officer)
7. Diego Fuentes (officer) 🏳️🌈?
8. Roland Putzinski aka The Putz (murder victim)
9. Micah Gasaway (mentioned as victim of gay-bashing incited by Putz - deceased)
10. Casey Griffen (CSI) 🏳️🌈
Chapter two mentions a few more:
11. Dr. Fawkes (ME)
12. Ned Givens (CSI tech)
13. Steve Lambros (CSI tech)
14. McIntosh (?)
Now, I think the author must have gotten confused by her own cast of characters. Key dubs the two CSI techs as Righty and Lefty. It's mentioned a few times "both" techs, with no mention of a third person being present. Ex. Both men spun around to face the newcomer [...]. Righty introduces himself as Ned Givens and the other man as Steve Lambros, who we can assume to be Lefty by process of elimination. And then at the end of the chapter:
So, I'm already lost on who's who, and apparently so is the author. I had already started highlighting characters as they were introduced and had to refer back to that a few times. And almost half of the characters are LGBT. I mean, I get that it's a MM romance but realistically, these are LEOs we're talking about, not the most tolerant bunch.
On top of that, everything is explained to the readers as though we are idiots. Thanks for explaining why it's necessary to control a crime scene.
I should have known better than to a) read a book from an author that is two for two on 1-star reads for me and b) has Locke & Key as the two MCs surnames and no one is making fun of them/the book isn't a satire.
It should be noted that I am horrible with names. Therefore, I'm not a huge fan of when there are a) an unnecessary amount of characters and b) first and last names are used for characters.
In the first chapter, there are 10 characters mentioned:
1. Sawyer Key (MC) 🏳️🌈
2. Keely Andrews (officer)
3. Royce Key (MC) 🏳️🌈
4. Ellen Rigby (chief of police) 🏳️🌈
5. Sherry (Ellen's wife) 🏳️🌈
6. Robert Jones aka Bobby (officer)
7. Diego Fuentes (officer) 🏳️🌈?
8. Roland Putzinski aka The Putz (murder victim)
9. Micah Gasaway (mentioned as victim of gay-bashing incited by Putz - deceased)
10. Casey Griffen (CSI) 🏳️🌈
Chapter two mentions a few more:
11. Dr. Fawkes (ME)
12. Ned Givens (CSI tech)
13. Steve Lambros (CSI tech)
14. McIntosh (?)
Now, I think the author must have gotten confused by her own cast of characters. Key dubs the two CSI techs as Righty and Lefty. It's mentioned a few times "both" techs, with no mention of a third person being present. Ex. Both men spun around to face the newcomer [...]. Righty introduces himself as Ned Givens and the other man as Steve Lambros, who we can assume to be Lefty by process of elimination. And then at the end of the chapter:
Given's laughter drifted down the staircase. You owe me twenty dollars," he told McIntosh, aka Lefty.
So, I'm already lost on who's who, and apparently so is the author. I had already started highlighting characters as they were introduced and had to refer back to that a few times. And almost half of the characters are LGBT. I mean, I get that it's a MM romance but realistically, these are LEOs we're talking about, not the most tolerant bunch.
On top of that, everything is explained to the readers as though we are idiots. Thanks for explaining why it's necessary to control a crime scene.
October 16, 2019
This book could not decide what it wanted to do. Is it a slow patient love story? Is it insta love? Are the characters tortured and full or secrets or actually just sort of shallow? With every page turn the story and characters seemed to be something different 🤷🏼♀️
July 13, 2021
Not going to lie I was pleasantly surprised by how much I liked this book. 😃
January 8, 2020
4.5 stars.
I needed something to take me out of reality and since reading does just that, I'm glad that I found this one to distract me. Ground Zero had the right amount of action and romance for me.
At this time of the review, I'm on the second book and really enjoying this. Glad I gave this a chance.
I needed something to take me out of reality and since reading does just that, I'm glad that I found this one to distract me. Ground Zero had the right amount of action and romance for me.
At this time of the review, I'm on the second book and really enjoying this. Glad I gave this a chance.
“I mean, I want you to mourn me properly, but then I want you to find an epic love. Promise me right now, Sawyer.”
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