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It's hard to forget your first love. Royal has tried moving on, but his mind—and heart—won't allow him to forget Grayson, his high school best friend and the man who'd been his sexual awakening. But a mistake in college tore them apart.
Eight years later, circumstances push them back together.
When a serial killer who targets public figures comes to Addersfield, Royal is shoved back into the arms of his detective ex-boyfriend. Old sparks reignite, as do past heartaches, as the two men are forced to work together. Back in each other's lives, it's impossible to ignore their deep connection but hard to move on from what tore them apart in the first place.
A dangerous game unfolds as Grayson investigates the murders, fighting against time, to catch the killer before it's too late. It's not only his life on the line...but also his heart.
*Royal is Book 2 in the Addersfield series and can be read as a standalone, although it's best enjoyed when read in order! A second-chance romance with a mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. HEA guaranteed.
Trigger warnings include: Suspenseful elements found in a crime novel, such as crime scene descriptions, serial killers, stalking, and mental illness.*
Eight years later, circumstances push them back together.
When a serial killer who targets public figures comes to Addersfield, Royal is shoved back into the arms of his detective ex-boyfriend. Old sparks reignite, as do past heartaches, as the two men are forced to work together. Back in each other's lives, it's impossible to ignore their deep connection but hard to move on from what tore them apart in the first place.
A dangerous game unfolds as Grayson investigates the murders, fighting against time, to catch the killer before it's too late. It's not only his life on the line...but also his heart.
*Royal is Book 2 in the Addersfield series and can be read as a standalone, although it's best enjoyed when read in order! A second-chance romance with a mystery that will keep you guessing until the end. HEA guaranteed.
Trigger warnings include: Suspenseful elements found in a crime novel, such as crime scene descriptions, serial killers, stalking, and mental illness.*
281 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 18, 2019
About the author
Jaclyn Osborn
50 books1,809 followersAs an avid reader and coffee addict, Jaclyn Osborn can always be found with either a book in her hand or one being written on her laptop. The men in her stories mean the world to her, and she's thankful for each day she's able to do this as a career.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
She writes M/M romance across all genres and worlds, including contemporary, historical, fantasy, and paranormal.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
December 19, 2021
4.5 stars!
Excellent! I was scared about how the author could pull off someone you love fucking you over so badly and then accepting them back into your life. There needed to be a lot of push-pull. And there was. Kudos! This author is on my radar.
Excellent! I was scared about how the author could pull off someone you love fucking you over so badly and then accepting them back into your life. There needed to be a lot of push-pull. And there was. Kudos! This author is on my radar.
June 24, 2019
3.5 STARS
This was Jaclyn Osborn's first romantic suspense novel and for a first attempt, I think it was a success. Now, I'll admit I don't read a whole lot of romantic suspense so take this statement with a grain of salt because I'm clearly no expert.
That being said, the intrigue in this book kept me interested till the end even though there was a part around 50-70% that was a bit too slow for me which affected my rating.
On a good note, there were some scenes in the book that honestly sent a chill down my spine which I loved!
I'd explain it this way: I wasn't as much a fan of the scenes in which Gray and the FBI guys were trying to figure out who the killer was but I LOVED the scenes in which the killer made appearances, left little clues, etc.
I did guess who the killer was the second he walked onto the page but it really didn't bother me much because from that point on the fun was figuring out why he was doing it and not so much who was doing it.
As for the romance aspect of things, I enjoyed the romance between Gray and Royal. Second chance is not a favorite trope of mine but Jaclyn Osborn still managed to get me invested in these two and their shared past.
I wish maybe both main characters had had a bit more development or backstory (especially Royal) but it didn't bother me too much since the focus of the story was more on the whodunit storyline.
I'm veeeery interested to learn more about some of the new characters that were introduced in this book, namely Phoenix, the FBI guy. I'd love to see him get a book eventually!
Still super excited for Brysen and Gideon to get books of their own as well. I'm growing more and more attached to this little group of friends!
So, all in all, it was an intriguing read, with a somewhat angsty storyline, perfect for fans of second chance romance with a good dose of suspense!
This was Jaclyn Osborn's first romantic suspense novel and for a first attempt, I think it was a success. Now, I'll admit I don't read a whole lot of romantic suspense so take this statement with a grain of salt because I'm clearly no expert.
That being said, the intrigue in this book kept me interested till the end even though there was a part around 50-70% that was a bit too slow for me which affected my rating.
On a good note, there were some scenes in the book that honestly sent a chill down my spine which I loved!
I'd explain it this way: I wasn't as much a fan of the scenes in which Gray and the FBI guys were trying to figure out who the killer was but I LOVED the scenes in which the killer made appearances, left little clues, etc.
I did guess who the killer was the second he walked onto the page but it really didn't bother me much because from that point on the fun was figuring out why he was doing it and not so much who was doing it.
As for the romance aspect of things, I enjoyed the romance between Gray and Royal. Second chance is not a favorite trope of mine but Jaclyn Osborn still managed to get me invested in these two and their shared past.
I wish maybe both main characters had had a bit more development or backstory (especially Royal) but it didn't bother me too much since the focus of the story was more on the whodunit storyline.
I'm veeeery interested to learn more about some of the new characters that were introduced in this book, namely Phoenix, the FBI guy. I'd love to see him get a book eventually!
Still super excited for Brysen and Gideon to get books of their own as well. I'm growing more and more attached to this little group of friends!
So, all in all, it was an intriguing read, with a somewhat angsty storyline, perfect for fans of second chance romance with a good dose of suspense!
July 11, 2024
so good!
This was an amazing book. The author did an amazing job redeeming the MC. It takes a lot for me to get past it, and I was rooting for them. This book was a second chance book. I loved watching these two find their way back to each other. And the added suspense was chefs kiss.
The writing drew me in right away. I felt the emotions. The smexy was yummy. And please someone tell me there is or will be a Phoenix and Luke story and a Bryson and Gideon book. I NEED to read those
This was an amazing book. The author did an amazing job redeeming the MC. It takes a lot for me to get past it, and I was rooting for them. This book was a second chance book. I loved watching these two find their way back to each other. And the added suspense was chefs kiss.
The writing drew me in right away. I felt the emotions. The smexy was yummy. And please someone tell me there is or will be a Phoenix and Luke story and a Bryson and Gideon book. I NEED to read those
June 30, 2022
This is my second time reading this one, and I forgot who the killer was. It meant I still had to guess again who it was!
Royal is a news reporter and that thrusts him into the arms of his ex-boyfriend again. Public figures are turning up dead, and Royal is the detective's first suspect. One of the Detectives is Grayson, his ex-boyfriend. Grayson doesn't believe he has anything to do with it and when another body turns up, we find it the work of a serial killer. The FBI has been hunting the killer, he has killed public figures in multiple states. The FBI agent in charge is someone I so want a story for!
It has been eight years since Royal and Grayson split, but they are very much not over each other. They split spectacularly and broke both their hearts. I did want to slap Grayson, but I reconsider when we learned his reasons. His childhood did a number on him due to his father beating him. It made Grayson quick to anger and not make the best choices. He knew he was wrong, I just wish that Riyal made him grovel more! I do understand Grayson a lot though, he reminds me of a close family member. Seeing abuse made him quick to anger too and not make great choices. Grayson's reaction is very true to real life and he at least learned from it. Their first time was more anger than anything else, I wanted to shout at Royal for that! They both want each other so much that eventually, you knew something was going to happen.
Royal & Grayson, both made mistakes in the past, Grayson more than anyone. I'm glad they learned from it and started slowly in this new relationship. You can't change the past, but you can change what you do from now.
I loved the addition of the serial killer in the story. The murder mystery part was very well done and it's so interwoven with the overall story. You feel the fear that Royal does, and you just want to find the person responsible. When you find out the killer's motive you kinda feel sorry for him. I just wanted him to get the help he needed, but it was still very gruesome what he did. The way the Greek story was involved was a nice touch.
I'm glad we get to see everyone from the previous book and Brysen is still his fabulous self! I so want his story, and maybe the bodyguard and FBI guy too! I do hope this is not the end of the series!
Royal is a news reporter and that thrusts him into the arms of his ex-boyfriend again. Public figures are turning up dead, and Royal is the detective's first suspect. One of the Detectives is Grayson, his ex-boyfriend. Grayson doesn't believe he has anything to do with it and when another body turns up, we find it the work of a serial killer. The FBI has been hunting the killer, he has killed public figures in multiple states. The FBI agent in charge is someone I so want a story for!
It has been eight years since Royal and Grayson split, but they are very much not over each other. They split spectacularly and broke both their hearts. I did want to slap Grayson, but I reconsider when we learned his reasons. His childhood did a number on him due to his father beating him. It made Grayson quick to anger and not make the best choices. He knew he was wrong, I just wish that Riyal made him grovel more! I do understand Grayson a lot though, he reminds me of a close family member. Seeing abuse made him quick to anger too and not make great choices. Grayson's reaction is very true to real life and he at least learned from it. Their first time was more anger than anything else, I wanted to shout at Royal for that! They both want each other so much that eventually, you knew something was going to happen.
Royal & Grayson, both made mistakes in the past, Grayson more than anyone. I'm glad they learned from it and started slowly in this new relationship. You can't change the past, but you can change what you do from now.
I loved the addition of the serial killer in the story. The murder mystery part was very well done and it's so interwoven with the overall story. You feel the fear that Royal does, and you just want to find the person responsible. When you find out the killer's motive you kinda feel sorry for him. I just wanted him to get the help he needed, but it was still very gruesome what he did. The way the Greek story was involved was a nice touch.
I'm glad we get to see everyone from the previous book and Brysen is still his fabulous self! I so want his story, and maybe the bodyguard and FBI guy too! I do hope this is not the end of the series!
July 16, 2019
I enjoyed this book quite a bit. It was a perfect blend of murder investigation / serial killer hunt and a second chance romance between two likeable MC's. Both aspects of the book, the story behind the killer and the relationship between Royal and Grey, had depth and raw emotions. There is an assortment of great side characters too. Aunt Abby, Phoenix, Luke, Ruby.....Phoenix especially caught my interest with that backstory of his. Plus a BAU SSA? I really hope he will get his own story.
My only issue with this book was Bryson. Judging by the other reviews I'm very much in the minority here but I haven't felt so strongly about a character in a long time. Up until chapter 21 he was just a minor immature, reckless, empty-headed annoyance but
My only issue with this book was Bryson. Judging by the other reviews I'm very much in the minority here but I haven't felt so strongly about a character in a long time. Up until chapter 21 he was just a minor immature, reckless, empty-headed annoyance but
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February 5, 2022DNF chapter 13. I initially DNFed this at chapter 2 (reasons listed below in my original “review”), but curiosity got the best of me, and I decided to give this another try, mainly for the action/suspense/serial-killer parts.🙃
Unfortunately, my first thoughts were correct in that this book was not for me. I didn’t like any of the characters, and I didn’t connect with the MMCs or feel their connection. There was something about this that didn’t work for me. I’m not sure how to describe it🤔. The writing was good, but the pacing, transitions, events, and overall story felt… off. Also, there was a lot of telling rather than showing and inner thoughts. And the detective work involving the case felt very juvenile, even for fiction. Nothing about it felt realistic to me. By the 44% mark, I was expecting there to have been more suspense. Idk I was just bored and not into the story or characters. Funny enough, in chapter 1, in the past, I liked Royal and didn’t like Grayson. But in chapter 2 and after, in the present, I liked Grayson and didn’t like Royal.😂 Not sure how to explain it. Adult Grayson felt more… mature to me? Idk maybe I related more to his personality and him keeping to himself and having regrets. Royal kind of annoyed me tbh. I didn’t like how he acted and just accepted Grayson back into his life. I know they’d both grown up and things had changed. But I didn’t like them together, so it was difficult for me to root for them. Idk I just never felt any chemistry between them. And their first, big clear-the-air conversation in chapters 9 and 10 was meh. Overall, I think this had potential to be an awesome and thrilling book, and I can see why others loved and enjoyed it, but for me, it fell short.
**Original “review:”**
DNF chapter 2. I liked the writing and the action/suspense, second-chance romance premise. But, the setup to how and why this is a second-chance didn’t work for me. Especially with the background and information provided in the first chapter. Miscommunication, lack of communication, and breaking up with someone out of fear/panic and “because they deserve better”(without explicitly telling them this) really bother me😒🤦🏻♀️. Ugh. I cannot stand MCs not communicating, especially after being together for so long and being older and in college. It just doesn’t work for me. Grayson’s behavior, indifference, and treatment toward Royal left such a bad taste in my mouth😠, and I was only a few pages in. It wasn’t even the “cheating” part. It was his coldness and how he basically dismissed Royal and what they had after being together for so long with zero explanation. Pissed me off. Before deciding to DNF, I skipped ahead to chapters 9 and 10 to read their confrontation and when Grayson comes clean about what happened and why he did what he did😒, because I HAD to know wtf happened in chapter 1. Sadly, the confrontation felt weak and unsatisfying, and the reasons for his actions weren’t strong or compelling enough for me. I just didn’t like how things went down in chapter 1 and wish the beginning/setup had been different. *Sigh* And Royal deserved better. I’m bummed, because I wanted to like this and was looking forward to reading it, but based on the parts I read, it just wasn’t for me.🤷🏻♀️
Unfortunately, my first thoughts were correct in that this book was not for me. I didn’t like any of the characters, and I didn’t connect with the MMCs or feel their connection. There was something about this that didn’t work for me. I’m not sure how to describe it🤔. The writing was good, but the pacing, transitions, events, and overall story felt… off. Also, there was a lot of telling rather than showing and inner thoughts. And the detective work involving the case felt very juvenile, even for fiction. Nothing about it felt realistic to me. By the 44% mark, I was expecting there to have been more suspense. Idk I was just bored and not into the story or characters. Funny enough, in chapter 1, in the past, I liked Royal and didn’t like Grayson. But in chapter 2 and after, in the present, I liked Grayson and didn’t like Royal.😂 Not sure how to explain it. Adult Grayson felt more… mature to me? Idk maybe I related more to his personality and him keeping to himself and having regrets. Royal kind of annoyed me tbh. I didn’t like how he acted and just accepted Grayson back into his life. I know they’d both grown up and things had changed. But I didn’t like them together, so it was difficult for me to root for them. Idk I just never felt any chemistry between them. And their first, big clear-the-air conversation in chapters 9 and 10 was meh. Overall, I think this had potential to be an awesome and thrilling book, and I can see why others loved and enjoyed it, but for me, it fell short.
**Original “review:”**
DNF chapter 2. I liked the writing and the action/suspense, second-chance romance premise. But, the setup to how and why this is a second-chance didn’t work for me. Especially with the background and information provided in the first chapter. Miscommunication, lack of communication, and breaking up with someone out of fear/panic and “because they deserve better”(without explicitly telling them this) really bother me😒🤦🏻♀️. Ugh. I cannot stand MCs not communicating, especially after being together for so long and being older and in college. It just doesn’t work for me. Grayson’s behavior, indifference, and treatment toward Royal left such a bad taste in my mouth😠, and I was only a few pages in. It wasn’t even the “cheating” part. It was his coldness and how he basically dismissed Royal and what they had after being together for so long with zero explanation. Pissed me off. Before deciding to DNF, I skipped ahead to chapters 9 and 10 to read their confrontation and when Grayson comes clean about what happened and why he did what he did😒, because I HAD to know wtf happened in chapter 1. Sadly, the confrontation felt weak and unsatisfying, and the reasons for his actions weren’t strong or compelling enough for me. I just didn’t like how things went down in chapter 1 and wish the beginning/setup had been different. *Sigh* And Royal deserved better. I’m bummed, because I wanted to like this and was looking forward to reading it, but based on the parts I read, it just wasn’t for me.🤷🏻♀️
December 7, 2023
Grayson y Royal fueron el primer amor el uno del otro. Compartieron primeras veces y fueron pareja durante 5 años después de que en la adolescencia se dieran cuenta de que les gustaban los chicos al sentirse atraídos el uno por el otro. Antes de eso, eran mejores amigos y todo entre ellos fluía de forma natural. Grayson tuvo una infancia dura y, por eso, le cuesta expresar sus sentimientos y sentirse merecedor del amor. Ese es el motivo por el que, cuando están en la universidad, Grayson se asusta y rompe de forma cruel con Royal.
Ocho años después se reencuentran, Royal es presentador de las noticias locales y Grayson trabaja como detective. Un asesinato golpea el pueblo donde viven y la casualidad quiere que Royal sea uno de los primeros investigados por su relación con la víctima y que Grayson sea el responsable encargado de la investigación. Este suceso les hace acercarse de nuevo y hablar por primera vez de lo que sucedió entre ellos. Ambos han aprendido de los errores del pasado y poco a poco le dan una nueva oportunidad a su historia de amor mientras otras muertes acechan a su alrededor y ambos se convierten en objetivos del asesino.
Me ha encantado este libro; la tensión se ha mantenido con la trama del asesino en serie y he estado enganchada sin poder parar de leer. Aunque me hubiese gustado que Royal se hubiese hecho de rogar antes de volver con Grayson, es evidente que ambos se merecían una segunda oportunidad. Una mezcla entre suspense y romance muy equilibrada y muy recomendable.
#M-M-romance
Ocho años después se reencuentran, Royal es presentador de las noticias locales y Grayson trabaja como detective. Un asesinato golpea el pueblo donde viven y la casualidad quiere que Royal sea uno de los primeros investigados por su relación con la víctima y que Grayson sea el responsable encargado de la investigación. Este suceso les hace acercarse de nuevo y hablar por primera vez de lo que sucedió entre ellos. Ambos han aprendido de los errores del pasado y poco a poco le dan una nueva oportunidad a su historia de amor mientras otras muertes acechan a su alrededor y ambos se convierten en objetivos del asesino.
Me ha encantado este libro; la tensión se ha mantenido con la trama del asesino en serie y he estado enganchada sin poder parar de leer. Aunque me hubiese gustado que Royal se hubiese hecho de rogar antes de volver con Grayson, es evidente que ambos se merecían una segunda oportunidad. Una mezcla entre suspense y romance muy equilibrada y muy recomendable.
#M-M-romance
November 29, 2020
Charmingly Intense
A surprisingly addictive story that will have you on edge both for the suspense and the romance tied up together. Royal and Grayson shared a past that ended unexpectedly brought on by the ghosts they carry with them. Now they are thrown together by a crazed killer intent on wrecking lives and who has become too close to home.
I've never been fully into romantic suspense but this book have changed my mind. Carefully written with very detailed descriptions which makes you think that it might not be a love story at all until you see the sparks whenever Royal and Grayson are together. Hopefully there will be a book 3 with Brysen to lighten up the series again.
A surprisingly addictive story that will have you on edge both for the suspense and the romance tied up together. Royal and Grayson shared a past that ended unexpectedly brought on by the ghosts they carry with them. Now they are thrown together by a crazed killer intent on wrecking lives and who has become too close to home.
I've never been fully into romantic suspense but this book have changed my mind. Carefully written with very detailed descriptions which makes you think that it might not be a love story at all until you see the sparks whenever Royal and Grayson are together. Hopefully there will be a book 3 with Brysen to lighten up the series again.
September 22, 2020
WOW, there were some serious bone-chilling moments in this that caught me a little off guard so hats off to that (I seriously double-checked the locks on my windows). Even though I think Royal and Grey could have worked through their past differently because oh BOY was that some serious baggage, I still really liked them as characters and as a couple. This had the potential to be just be a huge angst-fest filled with anger and bitterness and endless sobbing, and even though those things are still present, I didn't find them overdone or overwhelming; it was a good mix of a broken past and a new beginning.
Now give me the next book! I want to see some more of Gideon!
Now give me the next book! I want to see some more of Gideon!
November 3, 2025
3.75 stars.
Fun while it lasted. I was looking for more romantic suspense in my reading list and this one satisfied that craving. I liked how it started with serious conflict right out of the bat, with both characters needing to heal. Grayson and Royal were alright. I liked them, but I just didn't think about them at all outside of reading. I was more intrigued by Brysen. He's got attitude that many could probably see as annoying, but I loved the energy he brought. I wanted Brysen's book, but luck wasn't on my side this time around.
Fun while it lasted. I was looking for more romantic suspense in my reading list and this one satisfied that craving. I liked how it started with serious conflict right out of the bat, with both characters needing to heal. Grayson and Royal were alright. I liked them, but I just didn't think about them at all outside of reading. I was more intrigued by Brysen. He's got attitude that many could probably see as annoying, but I loved the energy he brought. I wanted Brysen's book, but luck wasn't on my side this time around.
March 31, 2021
OK
For me this was just an ok read. I started to lose interest around 50% into the book. I can't even explain why. I thought the characters were great but I struggled to connect with them. I was more interested in Bryson and hoping he would sweep Phoenix off his feet. I'm a big fan of this author but I just think this one book didn't click with me.
For me this was just an ok read. I started to lose interest around 50% into the book. I can't even explain why. I thought the characters were great but I struggled to connect with them. I was more interested in Bryson and hoping he would sweep Phoenix off his feet. I'm a big fan of this author but I just think this one book didn't click with me.
December 20, 2021
I think second chance romances are not for me. I would have never forgiven Grayson and/or it would have taken A LOT more groveling. Like exponentially more. Anyways, three stars for the mystery/thriller part because I was so engrossed in the murders I stayed up until 2am to finish this and then did not fall asleep because I was scared of every noise I heard.
March 16, 2021
3.5* Atrapante trama. La relación entre los MC no me emocionó tanto como la trama policial.
Fue una sorpresa el personaje de Phoenix, del cual me gustaría más, y la inclusión de las visiones en la trama.
Fue una sorpresa el personaje de Phoenix, del cual me gustaría más, y la inclusión de las visiones en la trama.
December 1, 2020
so good
this was so good suspense love serial killer second chances and friends that makes life so good you will certainly be glad to chose this one thanks for great writing
this was so good suspense love serial killer second chances and friends that makes life so good you will certainly be glad to chose this one thanks for great writing
June 13, 2021
Adore the Book
I am loving the universe you are writing this series, can't wait to see what happens next. Thank you for rhard
I am loving the universe you are writing this series, can't wait to see what happens next. Thank you for rhard
February 24, 2020
Ok i have to get something out now.
Bryson is the biggest hugest fucking moron. HUGE. like gigantic. I have seen lots of such movies. Read a lot of book. Never saw such an idiot character. I dont mind he is careless or a whore or anything throughtout the book. But this was too much.
Overall the book is good. Sure its the same story we all have read(probably many times), but still it is good.
I was afraid the mc's were going to jump together the first chance they get but i was satisfied with their relation. Gray WAS a huge ass in the beginning, but i think by the time we move to the present time, he seems to have changed a lot.
But Bryson thought, man what an idiot. WHAT AN IDIOT!!
On serious note, i did not identify the killer. I thought it was the guy Royal had hooked up with. So nice surprise there. But such a sad end to such a sad life. It always amazes me what parents do to their children. Like how can they? Some people should really not be parents.
Dont care for Bryson's story. He can grow up first. But would really like ro read Pheonix's.
Bryson is the biggest hugest fucking moron. HUGE. like gigantic. I have seen lots of such movies. Read a lot of book. Never saw such an idiot character. I dont mind he is careless or a whore or anything throughtout the book. But this was too much.
Overall the book is good. Sure its the same story we all have read(probably many times), but still it is good.
I was afraid the mc's were going to jump together the first chance they get but i was satisfied with their relation. Gray WAS a huge ass in the beginning, but i think by the time we move to the present time, he seems to have changed a lot.
But Bryson thought, man what an idiot. WHAT AN IDIOT!!
On serious note, i did not identify the killer. I thought it was the guy Royal had hooked up with. So nice surprise there. But such a sad end to such a sad life. It always amazes me what parents do to their children. Like how can they? Some people should really not be parents.
Dont care for Bryson's story. He can grow up first. But would really like ro read Pheonix's.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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June 24, 2019I really loved one of this author's books but all the others seem to not meet my taste. Unfortunately, not even this one!
I won't read this book for several reasons.
First of all, the names of the main characters: Royal is an unrefined name, it sounds too barbaric to me. The second, Grayson, is just the "clichéiest" (not sure if this word will ever exist) name in gay fiction. I am fed up with Grayson, Ashton, Jake, Vance ... and all those names that scream banality. I can no longer have interest in books with those names as they remind me of books I read before, low-quality books I read before... to be exact.
The second reason is just the blurb itself. It doesn't appeal to me at all as it has nothing original. Let's say it again: It's too cliché. Too déjà-vu. I read a minimum of 400 books per year in several languages and genres, I can guess the whole storyline of any book just by skimming through its blurb.. and this one is no different. My time is too precious for me to waste it on a foreseeable read. So, I won't read.
I wanted to leave a review, nevertheless. I don't do it always for the books that I don't read but when it's about an author whom I appreciate, I do always leave a word to say why I don't read because the worst for any book is for its cover and blurb to fail to catch the interest of the readers. Speaking of the cover, for me, it's banal. It's just another smirking, suited dude on the front page of a book with an as much banal title ... like there are multitudes in the markets nowadays.
I won't read this book for several reasons.
First of all, the names of the main characters: Royal is an unrefined name, it sounds too barbaric to me. The second, Grayson, is just the "clichéiest" (not sure if this word will ever exist) name in gay fiction. I am fed up with Grayson, Ashton, Jake, Vance ... and all those names that scream banality. I can no longer have interest in books with those names as they remind me of books I read before, low-quality books I read before... to be exact.
The second reason is just the blurb itself. It doesn't appeal to me at all as it has nothing original. Let's say it again: It's too cliché. Too déjà-vu. I read a minimum of 400 books per year in several languages and genres, I can guess the whole storyline of any book just by skimming through its blurb.. and this one is no different. My time is too precious for me to waste it on a foreseeable read. So, I won't read.
I wanted to leave a review, nevertheless. I don't do it always for the books that I don't read but when it's about an author whom I appreciate, I do always leave a word to say why I don't read because the worst for any book is for its cover and blurb to fail to catch the interest of the readers. Speaking of the cover, for me, it's banal. It's just another smirking, suited dude on the front page of a book with an as much banal title ... like there are multitudes in the markets nowadays.
July 20, 2019
Grayson was my best friend. The man I loved and wanted to spend the rest of my life with. And he’d fucking ripped my heart out.
Even though we were forewarned in book 1 about Royal's past heartbreak with his ex Grayson, I never imagined how cruel the event actually was. So cruel that even after their 8 year separation I felt it still should have taken Royal much longer to forgive him than it did. He's a bigger person than me for sure. And this my friends is the scene that the book starts with.
I'm a fan of romantic suspense so this was right up my alley. Even though I figured it out before the ending I still enjoyed it, probably more than book 1.
Grayson, who is lead detective on the case, also seemed genuinely sorry for how he'd treated Royal in the past. I just felt he needed to grovel a bit more than he did. He kinda just jumped right into protective mode of Royal with a serial killer on the loose and being pretty needy himself.
Through the heartache, I’d loved him. But I hadn’t been able to forgive him.
Thankfully we also got plenty more of Brysen for comic relief whom I adore. The next book is called Gideon. Fingers crossed he falls for our resident blonde flirty twink. I'm dying to see who corrals Brysen into monogamy.
4 stars
Even though we were forewarned in book 1 about Royal's past heartbreak with his ex Grayson, I never imagined how cruel the event actually was. So cruel that even after their 8 year separation I felt it still should have taken Royal much longer to forgive him than it did. He's a bigger person than me for sure. And this my friends is the scene that the book starts with.
I'm a fan of romantic suspense so this was right up my alley. Even though I figured it out before the ending I still enjoyed it, probably more than book 1.
Grayson, who is lead detective on the case, also seemed genuinely sorry for how he'd treated Royal in the past. I just felt he needed to grovel a bit more than he did. He kinda just jumped right into protective mode of Royal with a serial killer on the loose and being pretty needy himself.
Through the heartache, I’d loved him. But I hadn’t been able to forgive him.
Thankfully we also got plenty more of Brysen for comic relief whom I adore. The next book is called Gideon. Fingers crossed he falls for our resident blonde flirty twink. I'm dying to see who corrals Brysen into monogamy.
4 stars
February 2, 2020
Goddamn this book. Full of feels and I cannot stop reading. Best one from this writer so far.
July 24, 2019
3,25-3,5/5
Aussitôt sorti, aussitôt lu ! J'attendais avec impatience de pouvoir me jeter sur la suite de cette saga !
Dans ce tome, il sera question de l'histoire de Royal, qui va avoir la surprise de retrouver Grayson, son meilleur ami, ex et premier amour, huit ans après que celui-ci l'ait quitté...
Cette fois, nous sommes plutôt dans un « romantic suspens » car il est question de meurtre et le détective Grayson mène l'enquête.
J'ai trouvé l'enquête bien menée dans l'ensemble, c'était sympa. Concernant la romance entre Grayson et Royal, c'était sympa aussi. Seulement, pour une « seconde chance », je trouve que cela manquait de discussions entre les deux personnages, surtout lorsque l'on sait comment Grayson a quitté Royal.
Ce fut donc une lecture en demi teinte. J'ai bien aimé ma lecture mais il m'a manqué pas mal de choses pour être emportée complètement. J'espère qu'on en saura plus sur Phoenix, introduit ici, et j'ai hâte de lire le tome sur Brysen et Gideon !!
Aussitôt sorti, aussitôt lu ! J'attendais avec impatience de pouvoir me jeter sur la suite de cette saga !
Dans ce tome, il sera question de l'histoire de Royal, qui va avoir la surprise de retrouver Grayson, son meilleur ami, ex et premier amour, huit ans après que celui-ci l'ait quitté...
Cette fois, nous sommes plutôt dans un « romantic suspens » car il est question de meurtre et le détective Grayson mène l'enquête.
J'ai trouvé l'enquête bien menée dans l'ensemble, c'était sympa. Concernant la romance entre Grayson et Royal, c'était sympa aussi. Seulement, pour une « seconde chance », je trouve que cela manquait de discussions entre les deux personnages, surtout lorsque l'on sait comment Grayson a quitté Royal.
Ce fut donc une lecture en demi teinte. J'ai bien aimé ma lecture mais il m'a manqué pas mal de choses pour être emportée complètement. J'espère qu'on en saura plus sur Phoenix, introduit ici, et j'ai hâte de lire le tome sur Brysen et Gideon !!
June 22, 2019
✨⚡️✨⚡️✨5 Gritty and Intense Stars⚡️✨⚡️✨⚡️
Royal’s story is a bit different from the sweet and romantic tales we usually get from Ms. Osborne, but it was so good! This one was raw, intense, intriguing. It’s a second chances story for Royal and Grayson, lovers in college until Grayson ripped Royal’s heart to pieces. 8 years later, they are living in their hometown, Addersfield, when a serial killer targets Royal and Grayson, now a detective, must catch him before he takes away his ex lover. As they are forced to spend time together their intense chemistry reignites. The whole gang from the first book is involved, especially the adorable, Brysen. Sound intriguing? 1-click now to find out if Royal and Grayson get their second chance or if the killer catches Royal first!
“I’m yours. Tonight. Tomorrow. Forever. As long as you’ll have me.”
Royal’s story is a bit different from the sweet and romantic tales we usually get from Ms. Osborne, but it was so good! This one was raw, intense, intriguing. It’s a second chances story for Royal and Grayson, lovers in college until Grayson ripped Royal’s heart to pieces. 8 years later, they are living in their hometown, Addersfield, when a serial killer targets Royal and Grayson, now a detective, must catch him before he takes away his ex lover. As they are forced to spend time together their intense chemistry reignites. The whole gang from the first book is involved, especially the adorable, Brysen. Sound intriguing? 1-click now to find out if Royal and Grayson get their second chance or if the killer catches Royal first!
“I’m yours. Tonight. Tomorrow. Forever. As long as you’ll have me.”
July 17, 2019
*sigh* One of my MAJOR pet peeves in Second Chance tropes is when the main character that jilted or dumped or cheated on forgives the ex (other mc) far too quickly. And that is exactly what happened. I don’t care how deep your love was for that ex, when they pull what Grayson did , it’s beyond unrealistic to have that mc, Royal, jump on his dick but 3 chapters in.
Also, there seems to be a pattern with how this author is writing female characters. At least in this series. Most of them are legit sexual predators.
And then the character Brysen became this caricature as he was reduced to being the “slutty friend”. And we were constantly reminded about how “slutty” or “cock obsessed” he was. It was too much of one thing and too little of depth.
I almost rated this 2 stars, settled for 3, but in reality it’s a 2’5.
Also, there seems to be a pattern with how this author is writing female characters. At least in this series. Most of them are legit sexual predators.
And then the character Brysen became this caricature as he was reduced to being the “slutty friend”. And we were constantly reminded about how “slutty” or “cock obsessed” he was. It was too much of one thing and too little of depth.
I almost rated this 2 stars, settled for 3, but in reality it’s a 2’5.
June 27, 2019
Romantic suspense is so much fun to read. It keeps me on the edge of my seat and has my brain going all different directions. Royal was no different. My brain was in full detective mode. It was fun, emotional and very aggravating at times. (normal for these types of books) I did figure out who the killer was as soon as they popped up, but like I said before, I was in full detective mode. So, I was suspicious of everyone.
The romance was, of course, wonderful. I loved Royal and Gray. There were times when I wanted to throw a very heavy object at Grayson, but he did gain my love in the end. :D
I also fell in love with a side character or two and can’t wait to see what Jaclyn does next.
The romance was, of course, wonderful. I loved Royal and Gray. There were times when I wanted to throw a very heavy object at Grayson, but he did gain my love in the end. :D
I also fell in love with a side character or two and can’t wait to see what Jaclyn does next.
July 19, 2019
Beautiful
Royal and Gray stole my heart from beginning to end of their journey
I felt everything royal and Gray were going through i want ed to hug them so much
Their journey was full of mystery twists that had me guessing at every turn and kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end it was perfect
Royal and grays story had heartache mystery intensity heartbreaking and heart warming moments and learning to put past hurts aside and giving you the strength to forgive
Every word was meaningful powerful and moving
Royal and Gray stole my heart from beginning to end of their journey
I felt everything royal and Gray were going through i want ed to hug them so much
Their journey was full of mystery twists that had me guessing at every turn and kept me on the edge of my seat to the very end it was perfect
Royal and grays story had heartache mystery intensity heartbreaking and heart warming moments and learning to put past hurts aside and giving you the strength to forgive
Every word was meaningful powerful and moving
June 22, 2019
Loved every page
This series ... Wow. Two books in and I am totally hooked. The characters are well written and we'll developed. The plot lines are so good. The books are so different from each other, while still fitting together. Royal and Gray were painfully perfect. Brysen, as usual, my boo. This book was surprising at every turn, the mystery aspect was really well.done. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
This series ... Wow. Two books in and I am totally hooked. The characters are well written and we'll developed. The plot lines are so good. The books are so different from each other, while still fitting together. Royal and Gray were painfully perfect. Brysen, as usual, my boo. This book was surprising at every turn, the mystery aspect was really well.done. Do yourself a favor and read this book.
July 13, 2019
What an unexpectedly beautiful love story
The history between Royal and Grayson is complicated, but their past mistakes are just that - mistakes. I loved this story because of the imperfections of the characters, and how much they loved each other, despite their imperfections. The murder mystery was twisty and suspenseful, and kept me guessing all the way till the super sweet ending!
The history between Royal and Grayson is complicated, but their past mistakes are just that - mistakes. I loved this story because of the imperfections of the characters, and how much they loved each other, despite their imperfections. The murder mystery was twisty and suspenseful, and kept me guessing all the way till the super sweet ending!
November 2, 2019
Another great book in the series!
Another great book in the series. I love second chance books and this one didn't disappoint. I also love a book with romance and suspense and this one delivered on both. It drew me in from the very first page and I couldn't put it down. I adored Royal in the first book and absolutely loved him and Grayson in this one and I didn't want their story to end. Loved it! Can't wait for the next book.
Another great book in the series. I love second chance books and this one didn't disappoint. I also love a book with romance and suspense and this one delivered on both. It drew me in from the very first page and I couldn't put it down. I adored Royal in the first book and absolutely loved him and Grayson in this one and I didn't want their story to end. Loved it! Can't wait for the next book.
June 21, 2019
Amazing! I loved this! The book was so suspenseful, emotional & steamy. I was hooked & hated to put book down. I loved Royal but I detested Grey... It was probably half way though book before I finally liked him. Then he was killing me with kindness & I ended up loving him like I loved Royal. I'm glad they got their second chance. So can't wait for next book!
July 7, 2019
Royaly messed up
Royal being a truly lovely guy and good friend in the first book, didn't deserve this kind of story. He deserved a beautiful love story with no thriller type vibe. It took me over one week to read this book... Brysen was the only reason I kept going. He's adorable! Hope the author does him justice, at least.
Royal being a truly lovely guy and good friend in the first book, didn't deserve this kind of story. He deserved a beautiful love story with no thriller type vibe. It took me over one week to read this book... Brysen was the only reason I kept going. He's adorable! Hope the author does him justice, at least.
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