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Heated Beat #2
Lucky Man
As a diehard music fan, a dirty, smoky gig is Vice Squad Detective Danny Jones’s idea of heaven. While watching one of the most popular bands in Northern England, the sight of gorgeous rock star Finn McGovern changes his life forever.
Beneath the tattoos and leather jacket, Finn is kind and sweet, but when he confesses a dark secret to Danny, it tests their fledgling bond. Danny digs deep to accept Finn, but before long, a terrifying trail of death threatens to tear them apart before they’ve even got started.
A monster is killing prostitutes on Danny’s patch, and when a dead girl turns up too close to home, Danny discovers a heartbreaking link between the girl and his bright new life with Finn, a life he’ll do anything to protect.
Beneath the tattoos and leather jacket, Finn is kind and sweet, but when he confesses a dark secret to Danny, it tests their fledgling bond. Danny digs deep to accept Finn, but before long, a terrifying trail of death threatens to tear them apart before they’ve even got started.
A monster is killing prostitutes on Danny’s patch, and when a dead girl turns up too close to home, Danny discovers a heartbreaking link between the girl and his bright new life with Finn, a life he’ll do anything to protect.
ebook
First published March 11, 2015
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About the author
Garrett Leigh
87 books2,400 followersShe/Her
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
Bonus Material available for all books on Garrett's Patreon account. Includes short stories from Misfits, Slide, Strays, What Remains, Dream, and much more. Sign up here: https://www.patreon.com/garrettleigh
Facebook Fan Group, Garrett's Den... https://www.facebook.com/groups/garre...
Garrett Leigh is an award-winning British romance author and artist. Her debut novel, Slide, won Best Bisexual Debut at the 2014 Rainbow Book Awards, and she is a 4 time LAMBDA finalist.
In 2017, she won the EPIC award in contemporary romance with her military novel, Between Ghosts, and the contemporary romance category in the Bisexual Book Awards with her novel What Remains.
Garrett is also an award winning cover designer, taking the silver medal at the Benjamin Franklin Book Awards in 2016. She designs for various publishing houses and independent authors at blackjazzdesign.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 116 reviews
November 30, 2020
3.5 Hearts
This was a romantic drama focusing on musician Finn, and cop Danny. Both have their issues and hangups, but when they spot each other in a crowded venue, they connect immediately.
Those who aren’t reading-series-in-order purists, know that it was nice visiting Jack and Will from My Mate Jack, seeing them live their happy ever after. This sequel was a lot grittier than the first book as it focuses on Danny trying to solve several murders that look to be due to a serial killer. Despite Danny being quite taken with Finn, he’s unsure how he’ll react to Danny’s quasi in the closet status and his unpredictable working hours. Finn in turn, has some medical issues that haven't gone over well with blokes he’s tried to date in the past, and he worries that Danny won’t stick around either.
There was a sweetness to these two’s spotty courting, trying to find time for the other and trying to fit into each other’s lives. Regardless, each wants to make it work despite several external and personal obstacles.
Again, narrated by Dan Calley, he lent an authentic voice to the accents and was pleasing to the ear. Another “oldie” from Leigh, made new with this audio release!
Overall, this was a nice hurt comfort story showing that despite some daunting challenges, perseverance and faith can have a huge wondrous payoff!
This was a romantic drama focusing on musician Finn, and cop Danny. Both have their issues and hangups, but when they spot each other in a crowded venue, they connect immediately.
Those who aren’t reading-series-in-order purists, know that it was nice visiting Jack and Will from My Mate Jack, seeing them live their happy ever after. This sequel was a lot grittier than the first book as it focuses on Danny trying to solve several murders that look to be due to a serial killer. Despite Danny being quite taken with Finn, he’s unsure how he’ll react to Danny’s quasi in the closet status and his unpredictable working hours. Finn in turn, has some medical issues that haven't gone over well with blokes he’s tried to date in the past, and he worries that Danny won’t stick around either.
There was a sweetness to these two’s spotty courting, trying to find time for the other and trying to fit into each other’s lives. Regardless, each wants to make it work despite several external and personal obstacles.
Again, narrated by Dan Calley, he lent an authentic voice to the accents and was pleasing to the ear. Another “oldie” from Leigh, made new with this audio release!
Overall, this was a nice hurt comfort story showing that despite some daunting challenges, perseverance and faith can have a huge wondrous payoff!
March 31, 2015
Lucky Man is a quiet, intense read. Leigh's writing is beautiful but cloaked in heaviness, and the road to happiness for Finn and Danny is a bumpy one.
Danny, a detective and the son of a Welsh father and Chinese mother, is in the midst of a murder investigation; someone is killing prostitutes in a most gruesome manner.
Danny is distanced from his family and doesn't do well with emotions. He's a closeted cop who works with facts and questions, and is used to looking at things from every angle.
Finn is a rock star, but he plays music on his own terms; it's not about the money for him and his band members but about the creativity, the freedom.
Finn, who we find out early on has a mental illness, often gets lost in his head. He doesn't like crowded spaces where he's not in control. He worries a lot and feels things so very strongly.
I liked that Danny and Finn had to work for their HEA. This felt real, particularly considering Finn's mental health issues, which are treated with sensitivity and neither downplayed nor made into something ugly.
Both of the men stepped up to the plate when it mattered, which made their HEA more believable.
Danny's murder investigation wasn't melodramatic, but it still took page time away from the MCs together. I also wanted a resolution to Danny being in the closet. He seemed less worried about it as the book progressed, but I wish he'd made a statement for Finn's sake.
The sexy times were subdued but lovely and erotic nonetheless. I was very glad for the epilogue, which offered much-needed closure.
I was rooting for Finn and Danny. You will too.
Danny, a detective and the son of a Welsh father and Chinese mother, is in the midst of a murder investigation; someone is killing prostitutes in a most gruesome manner.
Danny is distanced from his family and doesn't do well with emotions. He's a closeted cop who works with facts and questions, and is used to looking at things from every angle.
Finn is a rock star, but he plays music on his own terms; it's not about the money for him and his band members but about the creativity, the freedom.
Finn, who we find out early on has a mental illness, often gets lost in his head. He doesn't like crowded spaces where he's not in control. He worries a lot and feels things so very strongly.
I liked that Danny and Finn had to work for their HEA. This felt real, particularly considering Finn's mental health issues, which are treated with sensitivity and neither downplayed nor made into something ugly.
Both of the men stepped up to the plate when it mattered, which made their HEA more believable.
Danny's murder investigation wasn't melodramatic, but it still took page time away from the MCs together. I also wanted a resolution to Danny being in the closet. He seemed less worried about it as the book progressed, but I wish he'd made a statement for Finn's sake.
The sexy times were subdued but lovely and erotic nonetheless. I was very glad for the epilogue, which offered much-needed closure.
I was rooting for Finn and Danny. You will too.
August 16, 2019
*** 3.5 Stars ***
Wow. This was completely different from the first book in the Heated Beat series!
Intense and heavy at certain times, with a dash of mystery/murder/mental illness/rock star/cop.
I know... crazy, right? but it did work out.
Charismatic characters.
Wow. This was completely different from the first book in the Heated Beat series!
Intense and heavy at certain times, with a dash of mystery/murder/mental illness/rock star/cop.
I know... crazy, right? but it did work out.
Charismatic characters.
August 26, 2019
Given that I wasn't overly crazy about Danny, I ended up really liking this one - Finn definitely more than made up for anything this I felt Danny was holding back on.
Loved it!
Loved it!
November 1, 2017
I've read this in one go and I still have to come across a book by this author I don't love. Need I say more?
October 13, 2023
This didn't really feel like a romance as it focuses more on the crime being solved, and Finn's mental health. The relationship felt like an afterthought and I would have preferred to see more of them actually together.
It was nice having Will and Jack around though, even though it was implied that they aren't in an exclusive relationship anymore unless I read that wrong? I thought they'd figured out they were 'together forever' now...
What made me laugh though was Finn finding parking at QMC 😂 I lived in Nottingham for most of my twenties and had to go to Queens fairly often and I swear you had to make a virgin sacrifice, provide the blood of a unicorn and the hair of an angel to be able to find a parking space! I can't even express how happy I was when they finally extended the tram line to stop there 😂😂😂
I do love that I'm always familiar with the locations in Garrett Leigh's books, because so many other authors are set in the US or Canada, which I sometimes find really hard to picture!
It was nice having Will and Jack around though, even though it was implied that they aren't in an exclusive relationship anymore unless I read that wrong? I thought they'd figured out they were 'together forever' now...
What made me laugh though was Finn finding parking at QMC 😂 I lived in Nottingham for most of my twenties and had to go to Queens fairly often and I swear you had to make a virgin sacrifice, provide the blood of a unicorn and the hair of an angel to be able to find a parking space! I can't even express how happy I was when they finally extended the tram line to stop there 😂😂😂
I do love that I'm always familiar with the locations in Garrett Leigh's books, because so many other authors are set in the US or Canada, which I sometimes find really hard to picture!
February 3, 2017
Do you know what I absolutely love? When the first book in a series is great but the second is sensational. Will and Jack in ‘My Mate Jack‘ warmed my heart. I adored them. Danny and Finn? Lit my insides on fire. I was nervous and anxious but it was sweet torture. To be honest, I’m still stressing a bit. Correction. I’m not necessarily worried but I’m stuck; I can’t seem to shake them. I feel like I need to check in on them, see them again, to have the reassurance that everything is okay. Have you ever felt that way about a couple? As though you are personally vested in their happiness? Like they need you to care about them? That’s me and these two…I’m slightly infatuated and hope to see them again!
What's to like: So first off, did you check out the new cover? Ha! Funny Twitter tale lies within this image. I witnessed it unfold and must give both the model and the cover artist props for handling it with grace and style. You can always tell a great deal about a person with how they handle sticky situations and Leigh gets major props for her classy response. I like it and he represents Danny’s extremely well but he certainly does look sad in the pic.
Back to the story…Danny finds solace in music. He’s a young detective and he decompresses with an acoustic escape. One evening he seeks comfort in a club and finds much more than he bargained for. A rock star hitting on him was the last thing he expected that evening. Then Finn takes him by surprise again when he suggests they make themselves more comfortable at his place. Once they taste each other, they can’t get enough. Things appear safe in their happy bubble but before long their fragile tether is put to the test by pressures they can’t control. Fresh romance should be easy but Danny and Finn prove it’s anything but. They both bring unwanted baggage and it might turn out to be more than they can bear. Add in the murder mystery and I was engaged and entertained the entire time.
What's to love: I love it when an author isn’t afraid to embrace challenging characters. Finn suffers from a mental disorder that adds complications to his life and especially dating. He has been unlucky with rejection in the past when he discloses his illness. When it comes time to tell Danny, Finn is terrified. This matters more than ever before…Danny matters. Danny is the light to his darkness and he wants this, wants HIM so very much. I was on the edge of my seat.
Finn is unbelievably brave and immediately stole my heart. I wanted to protect him, hug him, and convince him everything was going to be just fine. Thankfully, Danny did that for me. It was so lovely having Jack and Will take part in this journey. Despite reading their books back to back, I missed them. Leigh has a gift when it comes to creating strong lovable men that may have a fracture or two. But I love less than perfect MC’s, especially when they find their perfect counterpoint. There’s a lot to love here my friends, and I believe you’ll find it just as endearing as I did.
Just a sec, one more thing…….The epilogue was fanfreakintastic!! I was ecstatic and I’m very eager for more.
Beware of: A gritty and genuine take on the trials of mental illness and being in a relationship with a law enforcement officer. Finn is lucky to have his LEO and will be cared for and protected with the heart of a lion. Hang on though, they have a banging ride.
This book is for: Anyone looking for an intense romance between a rocker and a copper. Since this is a Garrett special, naturally it has British flare and an extra side of angst. It hurts, but it hurts so good.
*4.5 stars*
Book UNfunk
What's to like: So first off, did you check out the new cover? Ha! Funny Twitter tale lies within this image. I witnessed it unfold and must give both the model and the cover artist props for handling it with grace and style. You can always tell a great deal about a person with how they handle sticky situations and Leigh gets major props for her classy response. I like it and he represents Danny’s extremely well but he certainly does look sad in the pic.
Back to the story…Danny finds solace in music. He’s a young detective and he decompresses with an acoustic escape. One evening he seeks comfort in a club and finds much more than he bargained for. A rock star hitting on him was the last thing he expected that evening. Then Finn takes him by surprise again when he suggests they make themselves more comfortable at his place. Once they taste each other, they can’t get enough. Things appear safe in their happy bubble but before long their fragile tether is put to the test by pressures they can’t control. Fresh romance should be easy but Danny and Finn prove it’s anything but. They both bring unwanted baggage and it might turn out to be more than they can bear. Add in the murder mystery and I was engaged and entertained the entire time.
What's to love: I love it when an author isn’t afraid to embrace challenging characters. Finn suffers from a mental disorder that adds complications to his life and especially dating. He has been unlucky with rejection in the past when he discloses his illness. When it comes time to tell Danny, Finn is terrified. This matters more than ever before…Danny matters. Danny is the light to his darkness and he wants this, wants HIM so very much. I was on the edge of my seat.
Finn is unbelievably brave and immediately stole my heart. I wanted to protect him, hug him, and convince him everything was going to be just fine. Thankfully, Danny did that for me. It was so lovely having Jack and Will take part in this journey. Despite reading their books back to back, I missed them. Leigh has a gift when it comes to creating strong lovable men that may have a fracture or two. But I love less than perfect MC’s, especially when they find their perfect counterpoint. There’s a lot to love here my friends, and I believe you’ll find it just as endearing as I did.
Just a sec, one more thing…….The epilogue was fanfreakintastic!! I was ecstatic and I’m very eager for more.
Beware of: A gritty and genuine take on the trials of mental illness and being in a relationship with a law enforcement officer. Finn is lucky to have his LEO and will be cared for and protected with the heart of a lion. Hang on though, they have a banging ride.
This book is for: Anyone looking for an intense romance between a rocker and a copper. Since this is a Garrett special, naturally it has British flare and an extra side of angst. It hurts, but it hurts so good.
*4.5 stars*
Book UNfunk
April 1, 2015
~
First, let me begin by saying that I'm a big fan of Garrett Leigh's. I loved book one of this series, "My Mate Jack", and more recently her MMM book, "Misfits".
But while I did *like* this book, it wasn't love, as the book had a lot going on and never really came into focus for me, where the romance was concerned.
Here, 30 y.o. Chinese-Welsh police detective Danny was so busy that he had practically zero time for his new love interest, 27 y.o. rock musician Finn.
Instead, we see a lot of pages devoted to missing prostitutes and police investigations, which to be honest, have never been my thing, so a lot of it's probably just me not caring much for that trope.
Whodunit? Honestly, I really don't care. Murder mysteries, for me, are about as entertaining as watching pro golf on ESPN. Not my thing. At all.
But beyond that... Yes, people are busy, I do get that. But if you're living in the SAME town, you have to sleep, so make it a priority to at least sleep in the same bed when you can, versus not seeing one another for an entire week.
For example, Danny would finally get a rare, precious day off and he wouldn't even tell Finn that he was off work. Huh??? For me that doesn't say that you're aching for someone and burn to be with them.
Even after years of being together, Will was still unconvinced that Jack didn't just choose him because he was the "easy choice" vs. another man, so they still don't live together, leaving me to feel like they were only still dating, not madly in love. *sigh*
Happily ever after means "together", not living apart and being together when it's convenient, so that unresolved situation with Will and Jack drove me out of my damn tree.
Again, I did like this story, but it didn't have the same focus for me that I've seen in all of Leigh's previous reads.
3 *distracted-by-dead-hookers-and-slightly-schizophrenic* stars.
------------------------------------------------
My copy of this book was provided by the publisher for a fair, unbiased review.
First, let me begin by saying that I'm a big fan of Garrett Leigh's. I loved book one of this series, "My Mate Jack", and more recently her MMM book, "Misfits".
But while I did *like* this book, it wasn't love, as the book had a lot going on and never really came into focus for me, where the romance was concerned.
Here, 30 y.o. Chinese-Welsh police detective Danny was so busy that he had practically zero time for his new love interest, 27 y.o. rock musician Finn.
Instead, we see a lot of pages devoted to missing prostitutes and police investigations, which to be honest, have never been my thing, so a lot of it's probably just me not caring much for that trope.
Whodunit? Honestly, I really don't care. Murder mysteries, for me, are about as entertaining as watching pro golf on ESPN. Not my thing. At all.
But beyond that... Yes, people are busy, I do get that. But if you're living in the SAME town, you have to sleep, so make it a priority to at least sleep in the same bed when you can, versus not seeing one another for an entire week.
"I'm wiped, but I'd love to sleep in your bed, because I really miss seeing you. I know it's late, but can I come over?" Yep, *that*.In the stories that I really fall in love with, both MC's have a common, focused goal of being together and getting to know one another. I didn't really get that from this book.
For example, Danny would finally get a rare, precious day off and he wouldn't even tell Finn that he was off work. Huh??? For me that doesn't say that you're aching for someone and burn to be with them.
"You can’t just say you’re going to be there for him. You’ve got to bloody do it."Another thing that made me crazy was the situation with the MC's from book 1, Will and Jack.
Even after years of being together, Will was still unconvinced that Jack didn't just choose him because he was the "easy choice" vs. another man, so they still don't live together, leaving me to feel like they were only still dating, not madly in love. *sigh*
Happily ever after means "together", not living apart and being together when it's convenient, so that unresolved situation with Will and Jack drove me out of my damn tree.
Again, I did like this story, but it didn't have the same focus for me that I've seen in all of Leigh's previous reads.
3 *distracted-by-dead-hookers-and-slightly-schizophrenic* stars.
------------------------------------------------
My copy of this book was provided by the publisher for a fair, unbiased review.
October 26, 2023
Bit more angsty than book one
This one's more angsty than the first in the series but for good reason and not just thrown in for plot.
Finn's mental health issues are dealt with sympathetically and - to me at any rate - realistically.
Danny's vice work was also true to life, I was a journalist and I've had plenty of experience with the ins and outs of a criminal investigation, my ex was a policeman too so I totally got the distracted state Danny was in at times.
Together their relationship was developed slowly and with a great deal of care, it grew organically and I totally believed in it.
It was also great to see more of Jack and Will, both still happily middling along nicely a few years down the road.
This one's more angsty than the first in the series but for good reason and not just thrown in for plot.
Finn's mental health issues are dealt with sympathetically and - to me at any rate - realistically.
Danny's vice work was also true to life, I was a journalist and I've had plenty of experience with the ins and outs of a criminal investigation, my ex was a policeman too so I totally got the distracted state Danny was in at times.
Together their relationship was developed slowly and with a great deal of care, it grew organically and I totally believed in it.
It was also great to see more of Jack and Will, both still happily middling along nicely a few years down the road.
March 14, 2015
4.5 Stars
Lucky Man is the second book in Garrett Leigh's Heated Beat series. I preordered this one as soon as it became available and was waiting, not so patiently, for its release. It was worth the wait and I loved it even more than the first book. It had none of the frustration I felt when I was reading My Mate Jack, which I was happy about, because even though I loved My Mate Jack, I also wanted to scream and shake the MC's a lot.
Danny is a vice detective in the north of England. He's of mixed race, being half Chinese and half Welsh. He's from Cardiff, but he isn't close to his mum and their estrangement pretty much prompted him to move far away from her. He mostly lives for work and really doesn't get out much and he's not out at work, preferring to keep his private life private. When his mate Ken drags him out to hear some live music, Danny feels transfixed on the bands lead singer, Finn. He's hot and tattooed and pretty much then and there, Danny is a goner.
Finn noticed Danny in the audience, too, and after the show and the venue cleared out, Finn finds Danny and introduces himself. And that, leads to a steaming hot weekend at Finn's house, which leads to the rest of the story.
Finn is a very talented musician. He loves to write and play music and loves the energy he gets from the audience. He doesn't, however, do well when he is in the midst of a crowd. He's not without issues at all and the secret the blurb mentions isn't one I would have thought. At all. It comes out fairly early, though, so you won't be kept in the dark for ages with unnecessary angst.
The bit of angst we do have in this book is organic, rather than just there as a plot device. There isn't a ton of it, either. In spite of what is going on around the MC's throughout the book, it really isn't a terribly angsty story. The steam level is medium light and I would have loved more (I'm pervy like that), but the story was good enough I didn't really spend time pining away.
Though the surrounding story of the prostitutes being murdered never felt like it was taking over the story, it does hit close to home. And the case does effect Danny greatly and consumes much of his time. Even though he and Finn spend a lot of time apart, however, they are always in touch, which I thought was sweet.
We also see a bit of Jack and Will, from the first book. Jack is Finn's house mate here. It's good to see them so committed to one another and so together even though they aren't living together.
In short (I know, too late), I really enjoyed Lucky Man. For me, it was a joy to read.
Lucky Man is the second book in Garrett Leigh's Heated Beat series. I preordered this one as soon as it became available and was waiting, not so patiently, for its release. It was worth the wait and I loved it even more than the first book. It had none of the frustration I felt when I was reading My Mate Jack, which I was happy about, because even though I loved My Mate Jack, I also wanted to scream and shake the MC's a lot.
Danny is a vice detective in the north of England. He's of mixed race, being half Chinese and half Welsh. He's from Cardiff, but he isn't close to his mum and their estrangement pretty much prompted him to move far away from her. He mostly lives for work and really doesn't get out much and he's not out at work, preferring to keep his private life private. When his mate Ken drags him out to hear some live music, Danny feels transfixed on the bands lead singer, Finn. He's hot and tattooed and pretty much then and there, Danny is a goner.
Finn noticed Danny in the audience, too, and after the show and the venue cleared out, Finn finds Danny and introduces himself. And that, leads to a steaming hot weekend at Finn's house, which leads to the rest of the story.
Finn is a very talented musician. He loves to write and play music and loves the energy he gets from the audience. He doesn't, however, do well when he is in the midst of a crowd. He's not without issues at all and the secret the blurb mentions isn't one I would have thought. At all. It comes out fairly early, though, so you won't be kept in the dark for ages with unnecessary angst.
The bit of angst we do have in this book is organic, rather than just there as a plot device. There isn't a ton of it, either. In spite of what is going on around the MC's throughout the book, it really isn't a terribly angsty story. The steam level is medium light and I would have loved more (I'm pervy like that), but the story was good enough I didn't really spend time pining away.
Though the surrounding story of the prostitutes being murdered never felt like it was taking over the story, it does hit close to home. And the case does effect Danny greatly and consumes much of his time. Even though he and Finn spend a lot of time apart, however, they are always in touch, which I thought was sweet.
We also see a bit of Jack and Will, from the first book. Jack is Finn's house mate here. It's good to see them so committed to one another and so together even though they aren't living together.
In short (I know, too late), I really enjoyed Lucky Man. For me, it was a joy to read.
November 24, 2020
review for the audio version of the Heated Beat series
Garrett Leigh’s Heated Beat series includes the novels My Mate Jack and Lucky Man. Tied together through mutual friends, the two couples in these books struggle to find their happy endings. While there is some overlap of the characters between the two novels, you can definitely enjoy these stories as standalones, but I think you’ll get more pleasure if you read them in order.
Both of these classic novels are now available in audio, beautifully performed by Dan Calley. With his warm, rugged voice, Mr. Calley captures the emotion and enhances the intimacy between the men. And when Garrett Leigh turns up the heat, my earbuds just about melted. Fans of Dan Calley know what I’m talking about!
My Mate Jack chronicles the friendship of Will and Jack. Beginning with the joyous flirtations of youth as they test their mutual attraction, to the perfect moment when these two men let down their walls and reveal what’s in their hearts. This is a beautifully written friends to lovers tale.
With a relationship spanning years, Garrett Leigh demonstrates the passing of time, as well as the physical distance between the men, through their texts, phone calls, emails, and even letters. Hampered by poor technology, Will and Jack suffer through mixed messages, which just adds to their uncertainty about how the other man truly feels. Conveying anything honestly through texts and emails, especially after partying all night, is a recipe for disaster.
The angst continues to grow as they build separate lives, reconnecting at key moments, and breaking apart again. Yes, open and honest communication right from the start would have changed everything, but both of these characters had miles of growing up to do. Plus, it sets the stage for the next novel in the series, Lucky Man.
Very different in flavor, Lucky Man is a drama with a chilling mystery and deeply complex characters. A closeted police detective and a gifted musician, suffering from mental illness, grow from a casual hook-up to deeply committed lovers with non-stop action along the way.
From the moment Danny and Finn meet, the two men have amazing chemistry, and good Lord, Garrett Leigh outdoes herself! This is some superbly hot erotica, and Dan Calley makes the most of every bit of passion in the dialogue between these two. Rough, raw, and emotional, Lucky Man is a stunning audiobook.
If you enjoyed these novels back when they were first published, or if you’re a fan of Dan Calley’s audiobook narration, I know you’re going to love listening to My Mate Jack and Lucky Man. Here’s hoping Garrett Leigh releases all of her classic novels in audio!
Garrett Leigh’s Heated Beat series includes the novels My Mate Jack and Lucky Man. Tied together through mutual friends, the two couples in these books struggle to find their happy endings. While there is some overlap of the characters between the two novels, you can definitely enjoy these stories as standalones, but I think you’ll get more pleasure if you read them in order.
Both of these classic novels are now available in audio, beautifully performed by Dan Calley. With his warm, rugged voice, Mr. Calley captures the emotion and enhances the intimacy between the men. And when Garrett Leigh turns up the heat, my earbuds just about melted. Fans of Dan Calley know what I’m talking about!
My Mate Jack chronicles the friendship of Will and Jack. Beginning with the joyous flirtations of youth as they test their mutual attraction, to the perfect moment when these two men let down their walls and reveal what’s in their hearts. This is a beautifully written friends to lovers tale.
With a relationship spanning years, Garrett Leigh demonstrates the passing of time, as well as the physical distance between the men, through their texts, phone calls, emails, and even letters. Hampered by poor technology, Will and Jack suffer through mixed messages, which just adds to their uncertainty about how the other man truly feels. Conveying anything honestly through texts and emails, especially after partying all night, is a recipe for disaster.
The angst continues to grow as they build separate lives, reconnecting at key moments, and breaking apart again. Yes, open and honest communication right from the start would have changed everything, but both of these characters had miles of growing up to do. Plus, it sets the stage for the next novel in the series, Lucky Man.
Very different in flavor, Lucky Man is a drama with a chilling mystery and deeply complex characters. A closeted police detective and a gifted musician, suffering from mental illness, grow from a casual hook-up to deeply committed lovers with non-stop action along the way.
From the moment Danny and Finn meet, the two men have amazing chemistry, and good Lord, Garrett Leigh outdoes herself! This is some superbly hot erotica, and Dan Calley makes the most of every bit of passion in the dialogue between these two. Rough, raw, and emotional, Lucky Man is a stunning audiobook.
If you enjoyed these novels back when they were first published, or if you’re a fan of Dan Calley’s audiobook narration, I know you’re going to love listening to My Mate Jack and Lucky Man. Here’s hoping Garrett Leigh releases all of her classic novels in audio!
May 26, 2015
As I said in a comment today, this book and this series is like a warm, tight hug with an ass grope from a sexy friend. That is one way to describe it and of course I loved this one just as much as the first.
Finn... gah! I love how the author can take a disorder and not only make you get it but make you fall in love with the man who has it either for that reason alone or irregardless of it. I can't figure it out yet and I don't want to. I just want more of men like our humble and sexy lead singer/rock star Finn with their real life struggles and how they deserve all the love from a man who won't run away.
And that man, that stoic, stubborn sexy man is Danny. The by the book copper who finally sees that the fuss is about with sexy rock stars when he sees Finn on stage and falls head over badge for him. These two. They didn't have it easy, not one step of the way was simply for them but the best things in life are worth fighting for even when you think you've given up the fight.
Ugh.
Seeing Jack and Will again was lovely even though they weren't where I thought they would be but I have faith in them and know they'll get there.
But back to Danny and Finn. It's hard to be the one who doesn't know how to voice your feelings in a relationship and it's hard to be the one always second guessing if you are good enough for the one you want... IF they really want you. I've been on both sides of that fence and when the fence cuts you off at the nose, you have to rise up on pointe and see the other side isn't greener, it just has a bit more bullshit you have to shovel to find the gems under it. NO, I have no idea what I just wrote nor if it made sense, I am too wrapped up in the end of this book with a happy face splitting grin to really care.
I loved the story.
I loved Finn.
I loved Danny.
I loved Finn and Danny.
I'll shut up now.
Finn... gah! I love how the author can take a disorder and not only make you get it but make you fall in love with the man who has it either for that reason alone or irregardless of it. I can't figure it out yet and I don't want to. I just want more of men like our humble and sexy lead singer/rock star Finn with their real life struggles and how they deserve all the love from a man who won't run away.
And that man, that stoic, stubborn sexy man is Danny. The by the book copper who finally sees that the fuss is about with sexy rock stars when he sees Finn on stage and falls head over badge for him. These two. They didn't have it easy, not one step of the way was simply for them but the best things in life are worth fighting for even when you think you've given up the fight.
Ugh.
Seeing Jack and Will again was lovely even though they weren't where I thought they would be but I have faith in them and know they'll get there.
But back to Danny and Finn. It's hard to be the one who doesn't know how to voice your feelings in a relationship and it's hard to be the one always second guessing if you are good enough for the one you want... IF they really want you. I've been on both sides of that fence and when the fence cuts you off at the nose, you have to rise up on pointe and see the other side isn't greener, it just has a bit more bullshit you have to shovel to find the gems under it. NO, I have no idea what I just wrote nor if it made sense, I am too wrapped up in the end of this book with a happy face splitting grin to really care.
I loved the story.
I loved Finn.
I loved Danny.
I loved Finn and Danny.
I'll shut up now.
March 16, 2015
4.75 stars
Garrett Leigh likes her heroes damaged and tortured, she says so herself. These heroes were no different.They 're not perfect but together they are beautiful.
Danny is a cop. He' s not out at work, pretty much estranged from his family and is currently working on a serial killer case.
Finn is Jack's friend and roommate from My Mate Jack. He's a musician and the singer of his band. One night, after a gig, he meets Danny. The attraction is instant and their weekend together is just the beginning of their story.
At first, there is a mystery that surrounds Finn.It is obvious he's keeping a secret as the blurb states. I was really happy that he chose to reveal it to Danny himself and that this happened pretty early.
There is no unnecessary angst or misunderstandings here. The story isn't light and fluffy but not melodramatic either. The angst serves its purpose and helps the story unfold.
At the same time there is the serial killer case Danny works on. This has its role to play as well.
I was happy that neither this mystery case nor Finn's issues hurt the romance between the MCs. This is the story of two men falling in love above everything else.
We get to see Jack and Finn again but although they are happy together I still felt they had a HFN, not a HEA. This isn't the case with this book. The story might be short but it felt complete with a strong HEA.
You float my boat.” “Glad to hear it.’Cause I’m a little bit in love with you.” The world—Finn’s world, at least—changed forever
"I love you too"
Garrett Leigh likes her heroes damaged and tortured, she says so herself. These heroes were no different.They 're not perfect but together they are beautiful.
Danny is a cop. He' s not out at work, pretty much estranged from his family and is currently working on a serial killer case.
Finn is Jack's friend and roommate from My Mate Jack. He's a musician and the singer of his band. One night, after a gig, he meets Danny. The attraction is instant and their weekend together is just the beginning of their story.
At first, there is a mystery that surrounds Finn.It is obvious he's keeping a secret as the blurb states. I was really happy that he chose to reveal it to Danny himself and that this happened pretty early.
There is no unnecessary angst or misunderstandings here. The story isn't light and fluffy but not melodramatic either. The angst serves its purpose and helps the story unfold.
At the same time there is the serial killer case Danny works on. This has its role to play as well.
I was happy that neither this mystery case nor Finn's issues hurt the romance between the MCs. This is the story of two men falling in love above everything else.
We get to see Jack and Finn again but although they are happy together I still felt they had a HFN, not a HEA. This isn't the case with this book. The story might be short but it felt complete with a strong HEA.
You float my boat.” “Glad to hear it.’Cause I’m a little bit in love with you.” The world—Finn’s world, at least—changed forever
"I love you too"
March 14, 2015
Loved this one. I love the way Garrett is not afraid to include characters that are 'damaged' in some way and why not, they are just as entitled to find love as anyone else. 4.5 stars from me.
Danny is a police detective, taking some well deserved time off while he's in the middle of a possible serial killer case. He has no family close by, and is spending the night in a local pub, watching one of his favourite bands, the Lamps. When the singer Finn McGovern starts on a cover of the Verve's Lucky Man, his favourite song, Danny is a goner but even better, at the end of the gig Finn buys him a drink and confesses that he's been watching Danny all night....not surprising really cos Danny is an exotic mix of Chinese and Welsh, and hot to boot.
After spending the weekend together in bed, Finn reveals that he's schizophrenic and obviously expects Danny to bail, just as everyone else has that he's tried to have a relationship with, but Danny is made of stronger stuff and is willing to see how things go. It has to be said though that Danny's personal life is almost non-existent, and basically consists of work and sleeping. He's so lonely.
Can these two guys overcome the difficulties of trying to make a relationship work whilst coping with a serious mental illness and it's after effects, and what has indeed become a murder investigation... which unfortunately involves Finn's band in the worst possible way??
Great to see Will and Jack from the first book, and looking forward to book 3 already, although I would dispute that Nottingham is in Northern England. Definitely East Midlands, and I should know, I used to work there, hehe.
Danny is a police detective, taking some well deserved time off while he's in the middle of a possible serial killer case. He has no family close by, and is spending the night in a local pub, watching one of his favourite bands, the Lamps. When the singer Finn McGovern starts on a cover of the Verve's Lucky Man, his favourite song, Danny is a goner but even better, at the end of the gig Finn buys him a drink and confesses that he's been watching Danny all night....not surprising really cos Danny is an exotic mix of Chinese and Welsh, and hot to boot.
After spending the weekend together in bed, Finn reveals that he's schizophrenic and obviously expects Danny to bail, just as everyone else has that he's tried to have a relationship with, but Danny is made of stronger stuff and is willing to see how things go. It has to be said though that Danny's personal life is almost non-existent, and basically consists of work and sleeping. He's so lonely.
Can these two guys overcome the difficulties of trying to make a relationship work whilst coping with a serious mental illness and it's after effects, and what has indeed become a murder investigation... which unfortunately involves Finn's band in the worst possible way??
Great to see Will and Jack from the first book, and looking forward to book 3 already, although I would dispute that Nottingham is in Northern England. Definitely East Midlands, and I should know, I used to work there, hehe.
November 28, 2018
Finn and Danny are adorable together! Loved their dynamic and connection. This is a case of insta-love, which I did give the squinty eye to, but in the end I still loved them. Danny is a cop on the hunt for a killer. Finn is a musician dealing with the demons in his head. To quote a trite phrase, they complete each other. :D
Garrett Leigh is from Britain, and that shows in her writing. I didn't know what she was having her characters say half the time. Sometimes I could deduce from the context, but other times I had no idea and just had to skip it. I guess I could have googled it but didn't care enough. ;) I'm sure native speakers loved this, I just wish a dictionary was also included at the end!
I do recommend this and this can be read as a standalone. Jack and Will from book 1 are in this book, but you do NOT need to read their story first to fully enjoy Lucky Man. That's not to say you shouldn't read it. ;)
4 stars
Garrett Leigh is from Britain, and that shows in her writing. I didn't know what she was having her characters say half the time. Sometimes I could deduce from the context, but other times I had no idea and just had to skip it. I guess I could have googled it but didn't care enough. ;) I'm sure native speakers loved this, I just wish a dictionary was also included at the end!
I do recommend this and this can be read as a standalone. Jack and Will from book 1 are in this book, but you do NOT need to read their story first to fully enjoy Lucky Man. That's not to say you shouldn't read it. ;)
4 stars
February 12, 2017
3.5.
No de mis favoritos de la autora, pero con ese número de páginas consigue el punto de intensidad, tristeza y esperanza, típica de algunas de sus obras. Volvemos a encontrarnos con protagonistas torturados por circunstancias distintas, y aunque no se adentra demasiado en ellas sí nos permite sentir el problema que les supone en su vida y en la búsqueda del amor. Nos encontramos una historia de amor, pero con ese punto de realidad que hace que no todo sea lo perfecto que desearíamos. La trama romántica se entrelaza con una policiaca que, como normalmente pasa en el género, es la más débil, pero aun así no chirría demasiado, parece claro que no es intención de la autora escribir una historia tipo Agatha Christie y que tan solo es un aspecto más que nos ayuda a conocer a sus protagonistas, un vehículo más.
No tan adorable como la primera de la serie, pero mejor.
No de mis favoritos de la autora, pero con ese número de páginas consigue el punto de intensidad, tristeza y esperanza, típica de algunas de sus obras. Volvemos a encontrarnos con protagonistas torturados por circunstancias distintas, y aunque no se adentra demasiado en ellas sí nos permite sentir el problema que les supone en su vida y en la búsqueda del amor. Nos encontramos una historia de amor, pero con ese punto de realidad que hace que no todo sea lo perfecto que desearíamos. La trama romántica se entrelaza con una policiaca que, como normalmente pasa en el género, es la más débil, pero aun así no chirría demasiado, parece claro que no es intención de la autora escribir una historia tipo Agatha Christie y que tan solo es un aspecto más que nos ayuda a conocer a sus protagonistas, un vehículo más.
No tan adorable como la primera de la serie, pero mejor.
March 14, 2015
*4.5 stars*
[The Verve's "lucky man" is playing in the background to create the proper atmosphere to write this review!]
There is a feel and style to a Garrett Leigh novel that is so absolutely unique. Her writing always hits me emotionally. I think partly it's the melancholy tone and partly it's her troubled and often solitary main characters.
Danny is a lonely vice squad police officer, somewhat forced back into the closet since he came to work in Nottingham. Finn is lead singer of a band who is troubled with mental health issues. Neither have been in a relationship for a long time: Danny because of his work and Finn because of his condition. When they meet there is an instant attraction and they fall into bed quickly. I usually don't like when this happens, but I felt it worked in this situation because from that point their relationship develops at a slower, gradual pace. Part of the pace is dictated by the fact that Danny must devote his time and energy to dealing with a serial killer investigation. The other stumbling block to their relationship is whether Danny can deal with Finn's mental health issues.
Overall, I loved the feel of this one and I'm pretty sure it will appeal to those who love Garrett Leigh's other works. My only wish was for this to have been a bit longer. I would have liked to have seen Danny and Finn dealing with the events that occurred between the end of the story and the epilogue.
[The Verve's "lucky man" is playing in the background to create the proper atmosphere to write this review!]
There is a feel and style to a Garrett Leigh novel that is so absolutely unique. Her writing always hits me emotionally. I think partly it's the melancholy tone and partly it's her troubled and often solitary main characters.
Danny is a lonely vice squad police officer, somewhat forced back into the closet since he came to work in Nottingham. Finn is lead singer of a band who is troubled with mental health issues. Neither have been in a relationship for a long time: Danny because of his work and Finn because of his condition. When they meet there is an instant attraction and they fall into bed quickly. I usually don't like when this happens, but I felt it worked in this situation because from that point their relationship develops at a slower, gradual pace. Part of the pace is dictated by the fact that Danny must devote his time and energy to dealing with a serial killer investigation. The other stumbling block to their relationship is whether Danny can deal with Finn's mental health issues.
Overall, I loved the feel of this one and I'm pretty sure it will appeal to those who love Garrett Leigh's other works. My only wish was for this to have been a bit longer. I would have liked to have seen Danny and Finn dealing with the events that occurred between the end of the story and the epilogue.
March 17, 2015
4.5 stars. Loved it! This author ticks a whole heap of boxes for me!
March 29, 2016
*** 3.5 Stars ***
I think this is a case of everyone loved it but me. And I wanted to love it - trust me.
I typically LOVE Garrett Leigh's writing (I have never given anything she's written less than 4 stars). I love her strong sense of place, her complicated characters, and her less flashy - but no less emotionally intense - way of telling a story. She's an author I know I can turn to for a quality story, memorable characters, and editing that won't drive me batty by the time I've finished the first chapter.
But as much as I wanted to love Lucky Man, the story never quite got there for me.
On their own, both Danny and Finn were interesting, multifacated main characters. Both had good hearts and were dedicated, passionate, intelligent men. Danny wore his police badge like he was born to it, and Finn's passion for his music and his friends came through on practically ever page. And I don't think anyone can deny the chemistry between the two men; that first night when an uncertain Finn sidled up to the sexiest man in the bar and offered to buy him a drink, I could almost feel the page crackling with tension and possibility.
Unfortunately, Danny and Finn met at a fairly stressful point in their lives. Between Finn's schizophrenia, which required constant awareness and attention to keep from flaring up and sending him into a full blown episode, and Danny working a million hours on the biggest case of his career, these two guys had a tough row to hoe. As much as I, as a reader, wanted it to be, their lives didn't fit seamlessly together and they were apart for weeks at a time with barely a text message connecting them to one another.
Realistic? Probably. But if the characters are going to be physically separated, I at least want to see them connecting mentally and emotionally as possible.
And that means having the hard conversations.
You know... The ones that delve into what it is about your current case that is keeping you up at night and how your partner can support you through it. Or the ones about strained family relations. Or what to do when your boyfriend goes sleepwalking in the middle of the night. Or, perhaps, what triggers a schizophrenic episode and what your partner would need from you under those circumstances.
But any time either of these men got close to one of these conversations, one or both of them would get frustrated, get snippy, and back off. In fact, after a while, Danny's go-to response seemed to be to "ask Jack." Well, I'm sorry, I like Jack as much as the next girl, but it seems like a cop out (no pun intended) to cut out the person most vital to the conversation. Don't talk around him; talk with him!
In the end, I was a bit frustrated by the book. I cared about these characters. I cared about their relationship. I wanted them to be together and find happiness (not perfection, happiness). But I'm a contrary woman (clearly!), and when they did, I wasn't entirely convinced that they'd done the work to get there. It ended up feeling a little unresolved and artificial and because of that, the epilogue (which I usually live for) felt underwhelming.
Lucky Man was a good book, don't get me wrong. Even on a bad day, it blows away a huge portion of the m/m competition out there. It just wasn't my favourite by an extremely talented author.
I think this is a case of everyone loved it but me. And I wanted to love it - trust me.
I typically LOVE Garrett Leigh's writing (I have never given anything she's written less than 4 stars). I love her strong sense of place, her complicated characters, and her less flashy - but no less emotionally intense - way of telling a story. She's an author I know I can turn to for a quality story, memorable characters, and editing that won't drive me batty by the time I've finished the first chapter.
But as much as I wanted to love Lucky Man, the story never quite got there for me.
On their own, both Danny and Finn were interesting, multifacated main characters. Both had good hearts and were dedicated, passionate, intelligent men. Danny wore his police badge like he was born to it, and Finn's passion for his music and his friends came through on practically ever page. And I don't think anyone can deny the chemistry between the two men; that first night when an uncertain Finn sidled up to the sexiest man in the bar and offered to buy him a drink, I could almost feel the page crackling with tension and possibility.
Unfortunately, Danny and Finn met at a fairly stressful point in their lives. Between Finn's schizophrenia, which required constant awareness and attention to keep from flaring up and sending him into a full blown episode, and Danny working a million hours on the biggest case of his career, these two guys had a tough row to hoe. As much as I, as a reader, wanted it to be, their lives didn't fit seamlessly together and they were apart for weeks at a time with barely a text message connecting them to one another.
Realistic? Probably. But if the characters are going to be physically separated, I at least want to see them connecting mentally and emotionally as possible.
And that means having the hard conversations.
You know... The ones that delve into what it is about your current case that is keeping you up at night and how your partner can support you through it. Or the ones about strained family relations. Or what to do when your boyfriend goes sleepwalking in the middle of the night. Or, perhaps, what triggers a schizophrenic episode and what your partner would need from you under those circumstances.
But any time either of these men got close to one of these conversations, one or both of them would get frustrated, get snippy, and back off. In fact, after a while, Danny's go-to response seemed to be to "ask Jack." Well, I'm sorry, I like Jack as much as the next girl, but it seems like a cop out (no pun intended) to cut out the person most vital to the conversation. Don't talk around him; talk with him!
In the end, I was a bit frustrated by the book. I cared about these characters. I cared about their relationship. I wanted them to be together and find happiness (not perfection, happiness). But I'm a contrary woman (clearly!), and when they did, I wasn't entirely convinced that they'd done the work to get there. It ended up feeling a little unresolved and artificial and because of that, the epilogue (which I usually live for) felt underwhelming.
Lucky Man was a good book, don't get me wrong. Even on a bad day, it blows away a huge portion of the m/m competition out there. It just wasn't my favourite by an extremely talented author.
July 14, 2015
*** 4,5 STARS***
When I want to read a story with 'real' characters with some 'real' life they've going through and some 'real' flawed people, and still make a one helluva beautiful stories, I'll go find Garrett Leigh and never disappointed.
Garrett writes stories, not fairy tales. Most of her MCs are flawed with difficulties and with some readers, they would say...ugh...we need 'perfect heroes'.
Don't read Ms.Leigh books if you want that kind of story. Don't read her book if you want to read some shallow, pathetic MCs.
Her stories always digs deeper that usual, and I loved that about her books.
Lucky Man is no exceptional. In fact, Lucky Man is a better story than My Mate Jake, at least for me.
How many people want to live and loved the Schizophrenic unconditionally?
Not much, but there are some people out there who would do that in a heartbeat.
And I loved my sweet Danny who's doing it for Finn.
I loved the story, they're both imperfect people but with so much love to share together.
I loved how patient Finn is with Danny's job and never been a whiny bitch about it.
I loved it that Will and Jack taking care of Finn and Jack and Finn taking care for each other ...that's sweet and adorable.
I recommend this book for everyone who wants to learn to love flawed person, with mental sickness, and make them feel loved and useful, like how Danny (sigh) love Finn unconditionally.
My only complain is, I need more details in that 'week' while Danny taking care of Finn, when Finn was in his episode.
That would be sweet!
This book is a gem. I will re-read it next week. Loved it!
Danny
Finn
When I want to read a story with 'real' characters with some 'real' life they've going through and some 'real' flawed people, and still make a one helluva beautiful stories, I'll go find Garrett Leigh and never disappointed.
Garrett writes stories, not fairy tales. Most of her MCs are flawed with difficulties and with some readers, they would say...ugh...we need 'perfect heroes'.
Don't read Ms.Leigh books if you want that kind of story. Don't read her book if you want to read some shallow, pathetic MCs.
Her stories always digs deeper that usual, and I loved that about her books.
Lucky Man is no exceptional. In fact, Lucky Man is a better story than My Mate Jake, at least for me.
How many people want to live and loved the Schizophrenic unconditionally?
Not much, but there are some people out there who would do that in a heartbeat.
And I loved my sweet Danny who's doing it for Finn.
I loved the story, they're both imperfect people but with so much love to share together.
I loved how patient Finn is with Danny's job and never been a whiny bitch about it.
I loved it that Will and Jack taking care of Finn and Jack and Finn taking care for each other ...that's sweet and adorable.
I recommend this book for everyone who wants to learn to love flawed person, with mental sickness, and make them feel loved and useful, like how Danny (sigh) love Finn unconditionally.
My only complain is, I need more details in that 'week' while Danny taking care of Finn, when Finn was in his episode.
That would be sweet!
"“You’re gonna live with me?”
“If you’ll have me.”
“I’ll have you,” he said when he finally pulled away. “And I hope you bloody like it, ’cause I reckon I’m never going to let you go.”"
This book is a gem. I will re-read it next week. Loved it!
Danny
Finn
March 23, 2015
3.5 STARS
Well this was an okay read. I had the same rating with the first book but to be honest, I preferred the first book more than this. It's still a good read nonetheless.
Finn and Danny are hot. Like seriously. A rockstar-ish singer plus a copper? Yes please! I liked Finn's personality. Danny had a great taste in music. They had struggled to get to have their relationship started but they tried to fix it and it happened. I just loved their relationship. It's hard especially when both of you are always busy.
I felt bad for Finn's condition tho. I didn't know how to react to it at first so I made research via Google. I was glad for him overcoming some small things.
The mystery of the book was fine but it didn't feel anyway comfortable in the story except when the big reveal happened. I don't know, it felt random at first but then after the big reveal, it felt okay to be part of the book.
Overall, this was a nice read. The ending was really really good.
Well this was an okay read. I had the same rating with the first book but to be honest, I preferred the first book more than this. It's still a good read nonetheless.
Finn and Danny are hot. Like seriously. A rockstar-ish singer plus a copper? Yes please! I liked Finn's personality. Danny had a great taste in music. They had struggled to get to have their relationship started but they tried to fix it and it happened. I just loved their relationship. It's hard especially when both of you are always busy.
I felt bad for Finn's condition tho. I didn't know how to react to it at first so I made research via Google. I was glad for him overcoming some small things.
The mystery of the book was fine but it didn't feel anyway comfortable in the story except when the big reveal happened. I don't know, it felt random at first but then after the big reveal, it felt okay to be part of the book.
Overall, this was a nice read. The ending was really really good.
May 5, 2015
The thing with Garrett Leigh's books is that she could be writing about your next door neighbour or the dude who serves you in the coffee shop. Her characters aren't perfect, they have hangups, they argue and sometimes you want to shake them and shout "sort it out" and that's what's great. They are real, you're totally invested in their story and you want them to work everything out and to have their HEA. This second book of the Heated Beat series was no exception, I loved Danny and Finn, their love story was sweet in contrast to the dark goings on in the background. Garrett Leigh is an autobuy for me and I look forward to seeing what she is going to put the next couple through :)
September 15, 2022
I loved this short story so much! It truly blew me away and I did not expect it to go where it did! 🥹
I always love a little suspense with my romance too! It was well written, I need to read another Garrett Leigh book!! NOW!
I am missing Danny & Finn already! 🌈❤️❤️❤️
P.S. Bring tissues!!
I always love a little suspense with my romance too! It was well written, I need to read another Garrett Leigh book!! NOW!
I am missing Danny & Finn already! 🌈❤️❤️❤️
P.S. Bring tissues!!
March 20, 2015
4.5 stars
Another great read from this author. The first book in this series was a little lighter than we usually get from her but this story was back to the slightly melancholy yet starkly beautiful stories that she writes. In this, Danny, a closeted police detective falls for rock star Finn. Finn is a great guy but he is struggling with a life impacting mental illness. Danny has to decide not only if Finn is worth coming out for but can he deal with the ongoing issues that come with loving someone with Finn's condition. I loved both of these characters (they reminded me of Ash and Pete). Danny was a good guy but man did I love Finn. Watching him struggle with his mental health issues was both touching and heartbreaking. He may be my favorite Garrett Leigh character of all. The things he went through just really touched my heart. Everything was good here. The plot, the characters, the romance and the sexy times. It all worked for me. Loved seeing Jack and Will from book one and can't wait to read more in this series. Fingers crossed we'll get more glimpses of Danny and Finn.
Another great read from this author. The first book in this series was a little lighter than we usually get from her but this story was back to the slightly melancholy yet starkly beautiful stories that she writes. In this, Danny, a closeted police detective falls for rock star Finn. Finn is a great guy but he is struggling with a life impacting mental illness. Danny has to decide not only if Finn is worth coming out for but can he deal with the ongoing issues that come with loving someone with Finn's condition. I loved both of these characters (they reminded me of Ash and Pete). Danny was a good guy but man did I love Finn. Watching him struggle with his mental health issues was both touching and heartbreaking. He may be my favorite Garrett Leigh character of all. The things he went through just really touched my heart. Everything was good here. The plot, the characters, the romance and the sexy times. It all worked for me. Loved seeing Jack and Will from book one and can't wait to read more in this series. Fingers crossed we'll get more glimpses of Danny and Finn.
October 17, 2015
Powered through this, which isn't hard because it's not a long story. Garrett's writing is smooth and addictive. She doesn't waste words, so the narrative doesn't get bogged down in unnecessary detail or descriptive (although if you like that, more power to you).
This odd pair would never work on paper. Finn's secret means he is reserved and closed off. Danny's job as a vice cop requires him to be reserved and closed off. It's a match made in heaven.
Although we switch between the pair as narrators, I felt more aware of Finn's thoughts and feelings than Danny's. It's as if he held us at a length, as much as he does Finn.
However, the murder mystery is solid, the glimpse into Jack and Will's lives appreciated, and although the big secret is huge, it's not played for dramatic contrivances. It's all rather contained, which suited me just fine.
Really enjoyed this book.
This odd pair would never work on paper. Finn's secret means he is reserved and closed off. Danny's job as a vice cop requires him to be reserved and closed off. It's a match made in heaven.
Although we switch between the pair as narrators, I felt more aware of Finn's thoughts and feelings than Danny's. It's as if he held us at a length, as much as he does Finn.
However, the murder mystery is solid, the glimpse into Jack and Will's lives appreciated, and although the big secret is huge, it's not played for dramatic contrivances. It's all rather contained, which suited me just fine.
Really enjoyed this book.
March 1, 2015
This is book 2 and is just as good as book 1. Garret has a way of telling a story that has me unable to leave her books. I really recommend this book, and you can read it as a standalone, but actually you shouldn't, you should read book 1 as well!!!
This story is less about the murders, and more about a Detective who balances work and love, and a singer who has to try desperately to find balance in everything. Beautifully done.
This story is less about the murders, and more about a Detective who balances work and love, and a singer who has to try desperately to find balance in everything. Beautifully done.
October 29, 2020
If you saw my review for 'My Mate Jack' you can't tell me you didn't see this one coming...
While I really enjoyed 'My Mate Jack'...I absolutely loved 'Lucky Man'.
'Lucky Man' brings us back to the world of 'My Mate Jack' only this time Will and Jack are secondary characters as we get to know Jack's roommate...Finn McGovern and the man who ultimately wins his heart...Detective Danny Jones.
Finn's the lead singer for one of northern England's most popular bands. Danny's a cop whose idea of relaxing is involves smokey, grungy venues, filled with people all there for one reasons...music. When Danny first spots Finn, he can't look away but what he doesn't realize is that Finn's having the same problem.
While I really liked Danny and enjoyed the part of the story that revolved around him as a cop working on what could be the biggest case of his career. It was Finn who well and truly captured my attention and my heart.
Finn's a talented musician and a man dealing with maintaining a balance in his life that allows him to maintain the precarious hold that he has on his mental health. Mental health issues are often times either trivialized or sometimes it even seems like they're glamorized but with Finn we're given a real person...someone who could be living next door. He's not made to seem heroic for his efforts to have the life he wants nor does he feel like he's a failure when he has a setback. Just as someone would deal with a physical disability or a chronic illness, Finn is presented as a person dealing with a health issue and his happens to be a mental health issue.
This is an issue that the story treats with dignity and respect and while the story is fiction the reality of Finn and his condition are fact for many, many people in the real world and whether the story is a real one or fiction such as the case is here, this is a condition that needs to brought into the light.
As well as how Finn and his condition were presented I was impressed with the realism of Danny's response to Finn, when he was told about things by Finn. Sure he took a tiny step back but he didn't walk away and I know we can all say 'well he shouldn't have done that, he should have been ok with it.' but reality is how many of us wouldn't have needed to take a tiny step back to process this information because and I know it can hurt but for me, if I was in Finn's shoes I'd rather have that person walk away at the start than to let me love them even more and come to depend on them as a constant in my life and then when I truly needed them to have them walk away...that would be more painful than I could possibly imagine.
From Danny's side of things Finn also had some processing and decision making to do because being a police officer and being out and proud wasn't necessarily something that Danny felt prepared or ready to do and Finn needed to decide if this was something he could accept.
These two men worked hard to find their happy and in the end it was a much deserved happy that they won for themselves.
As was the case in 'My Mate Jack' all of this was wonderfully given voice and substance by the very talented Dan Calley and if there was any doubt in my mind before that Garrett Leigh + Dan Calley = an audiobook that I must have, there's none there now.
**************************
An audio book was graciously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
While I really enjoyed 'My Mate Jack'...I absolutely loved 'Lucky Man'.
'Lucky Man' brings us back to the world of 'My Mate Jack' only this time Will and Jack are secondary characters as we get to know Jack's roommate...Finn McGovern and the man who ultimately wins his heart...Detective Danny Jones.
Finn's the lead singer for one of northern England's most popular bands. Danny's a cop whose idea of relaxing is involves smokey, grungy venues, filled with people all there for one reasons...music. When Danny first spots Finn, he can't look away but what he doesn't realize is that Finn's having the same problem.
While I really liked Danny and enjoyed the part of the story that revolved around him as a cop working on what could be the biggest case of his career. It was Finn who well and truly captured my attention and my heart.
Finn's a talented musician and a man dealing with maintaining a balance in his life that allows him to maintain the precarious hold that he has on his mental health. Mental health issues are often times either trivialized or sometimes it even seems like they're glamorized but with Finn we're given a real person...someone who could be living next door. He's not made to seem heroic for his efforts to have the life he wants nor does he feel like he's a failure when he has a setback. Just as someone would deal with a physical disability or a chronic illness, Finn is presented as a person dealing with a health issue and his happens to be a mental health issue.
This is an issue that the story treats with dignity and respect and while the story is fiction the reality of Finn and his condition are fact for many, many people in the real world and whether the story is a real one or fiction such as the case is here, this is a condition that needs to brought into the light.
As well as how Finn and his condition were presented I was impressed with the realism of Danny's response to Finn, when he was told about things by Finn. Sure he took a tiny step back but he didn't walk away and I know we can all say 'well he shouldn't have done that, he should have been ok with it.' but reality is how many of us wouldn't have needed to take a tiny step back to process this information because and I know it can hurt but for me, if I was in Finn's shoes I'd rather have that person walk away at the start than to let me love them even more and come to depend on them as a constant in my life and then when I truly needed them to have them walk away...that would be more painful than I could possibly imagine.
From Danny's side of things Finn also had some processing and decision making to do because being a police officer and being out and proud wasn't necessarily something that Danny felt prepared or ready to do and Finn needed to decide if this was something he could accept.
These two men worked hard to find their happy and in the end it was a much deserved happy that they won for themselves.
As was the case in 'My Mate Jack' all of this was wonderfully given voice and substance by the very talented Dan Calley and if there was any doubt in my mind before that Garrett Leigh + Dan Calley = an audiobook that I must have, there's none there now.
**************************
An audio book was graciously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
March 27, 2017
4.5 stars
March 4, 2015
So far I’ve never read any book written by Leigh that I didn’t love and this one isn’t an exception. Lucky Man is book 2 in Heated Beat series and while it can be read as a standalone, I encourage you to read My Mate Jack as well; the characters from book 1 are present throughout Lucky Man and it would prevent any confusion.
Fenn is Jack’s very close friend and band mate and he is such a likeable character. He is honest and truthful, real, sweet and flawed. Leigh did such a good job writing his condition, because while it wasn’t overly dramatic, it still packed a punch. Finn’s day to day life is constantly impacted by his condition, and we got to see it all, the good days and the bad. It was all presented to us in a way that raises awareness to the fact that people affected by this illness are still able to lead happy, content lives and that they shouldn’t be treated any differently than anyone else.
When it was all set and done, I feel like I’ve learned a few things about this illness I didn’t know before. Leigh is one of those rare authors who manage to show us characters that suffer from different illnesses, and make us see them as real, flawed, people who are no better or worse than the rest of us.
Danny is a young police detective who’s distanced himself from his family. He is a very lonely person and the way he bonded with Finn is very real and heartwarming. I love that there’s no drama in his past, no abuse or anything like that, which caused his separation from his family. Sometimes families are just not that close and manage to drift away from each other, which is the case here. I like Danny a lot, and I like him even better with Finn. But I appreciate his dedication to solving the string of murders that form the plot that’s woven around Finn and Danny’s budding romance. When the danger came, it wasn’t over done, and it wasn’t too long, just short and to the point, which I appreciated tremendously.
Fenn and Danny’s sexual relationship is sweet and hot, passionate and just plain beautiful. They have that deep connection that I always crave to see, and while the sex scenes are not extremely wordy or detailed, they pack a punch.
This book was amazing, I enjoyed reading it and couldn’t put it down (yep, I was still awake at 2AM reading this). Highly recommended!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
Fenn is Jack’s very close friend and band mate and he is such a likeable character. He is honest and truthful, real, sweet and flawed. Leigh did such a good job writing his condition, because while it wasn’t overly dramatic, it still packed a punch. Finn’s day to day life is constantly impacted by his condition, and we got to see it all, the good days and the bad. It was all presented to us in a way that raises awareness to the fact that people affected by this illness are still able to lead happy, content lives and that they shouldn’t be treated any differently than anyone else.
When it was all set and done, I feel like I’ve learned a few things about this illness I didn’t know before. Leigh is one of those rare authors who manage to show us characters that suffer from different illnesses, and make us see them as real, flawed, people who are no better or worse than the rest of us.
Danny is a young police detective who’s distanced himself from his family. He is a very lonely person and the way he bonded with Finn is very real and heartwarming. I love that there’s no drama in his past, no abuse or anything like that, which caused his separation from his family. Sometimes families are just not that close and manage to drift away from each other, which is the case here. I like Danny a lot, and I like him even better with Finn. But I appreciate his dedication to solving the string of murders that form the plot that’s woven around Finn and Danny’s budding romance. When the danger came, it wasn’t over done, and it wasn’t too long, just short and to the point, which I appreciated tremendously.
Fenn and Danny’s sexual relationship is sweet and hot, passionate and just plain beautiful. They have that deep connection that I always crave to see, and while the sex scenes are not extremely wordy or detailed, they pack a punch.
This book was amazing, I enjoyed reading it and couldn’t put it down (yep, I was still awake at 2AM reading this). Highly recommended!
* I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review through http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.com *
November 26, 2016
What can I say about this book?
I will say Garret can take an affliction and make it seem like she's the one that's going through it,which then comes across like you're the one going through it lol. Finn has an uncommon disorder, and I think Garret did such a great job with it (just like Jake in Misfits).
Finn's in a band called Lamps, and Danny decided to go out with a friend to see the show. Danny decided to stay at the bar for a bit and has his first encounter with Finn. Uou can feel the chemistry between the two right off.
What I love most about this is, Finn's band is an independent band, so it isn't all glitz, glamour, raging adoring fans. I can't read those books, they kind of make me feel anxious, much like Finn and crowds.
Danny is a quiet kind of guy, and a Vice Detective who gets landed with a case of a possible serial killer. Not only is he going through that, but he's also coming to terms with Finn and his "issue". I think he handles it all pretty well, considering. I also like that Finn told him about it straight away. That can't be an easy thing to admit to someone.
Another aspect I really dug was, yes they hit it off right away, but there were also some obstacles that they had to go through before really coming together. It wasn't a story just about them, but as individuals as well, Danny with his case and Finn with his music and health. It's like once they reached that end goal and learned more about each other (they both seemed mystified by the other) then they could really BE together.
I think these two were just so sweet and I really enjoyed their story, waaay more than I thought I would. 4.5*
I will say Garret can take an affliction and make it seem like she's the one that's going through it,which then comes across like you're the one going through it lol. Finn has an uncommon disorder, and I think Garret did such a great job with it (just like Jake in Misfits).
Finn's in a band called Lamps, and Danny decided to go out with a friend to see the show. Danny decided to stay at the bar for a bit and has his first encounter with Finn. Uou can feel the chemistry between the two right off.
What I love most about this is, Finn's band is an independent band, so it isn't all glitz, glamour, raging adoring fans. I can't read those books, they kind of make me feel anxious, much like Finn and crowds.
Danny is a quiet kind of guy, and a Vice Detective who gets landed with a case of a possible serial killer. Not only is he going through that, but he's also coming to terms with Finn and his "issue". I think he handles it all pretty well, considering. I also like that Finn told him about it straight away. That can't be an easy thing to admit to someone.
Another aspect I really dug was, yes they hit it off right away, but there were also some obstacles that they had to go through before really coming together. It wasn't a story just about them, but as individuals as well, Danny with his case and Finn with his music and health. It's like once they reached that end goal and learned more about each other (they both seemed mystified by the other) then they could really BE together.
I think these two were just so sweet and I really enjoyed their story, waaay more than I thought I would. 4.5*
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