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The Paul Monroe Mysteries #1
Couldn't Cheat Death
Detective Paul Monroe has little room in his life for anything but work. Maintaining order and solving cases in the town of Thornwood Park keeps him busy. When Jerry Gregoria, a popular bartender and personal trainer is found murdered, there’s no shortage of suspects. It seems Jerry was busy shaking more than cocktails all over town, leaving Paul and his partner with an ever-growing list of men and women who have reasons to want Jerry dead. The deeper Paul delves into the case, the more he finds himself drawn to hotel manager Cliff Baxter, whom he hasn’t seen in years.
Cliff Baxter’s childhood crush on Paul Monroe hasn’t waned since high school. In fact, with the sexy detective conducting the investigation at the hotel, Cliff is more than happy to help. Ever since his last relationship went up in flames, Cliff has made it a rule to never get involved with a closeted man. But after Paul is threatened and things between the two heat up, Cliff decides to make an exception.
With new twists in the case popping up every day and the mayor breathing down the police department’s neck, Paul needs to solve the case yesterday. It takes a crisis for Paul and Cliff to realize what started out as something casual could be everything they’ve both been looking for but never thought to find. But if the killer strikes again, they might never get that chance.
Cliff Baxter’s childhood crush on Paul Monroe hasn’t waned since high school. In fact, with the sexy detective conducting the investigation at the hotel, Cliff is more than happy to help. Ever since his last relationship went up in flames, Cliff has made it a rule to never get involved with a closeted man. But after Paul is threatened and things between the two heat up, Cliff decides to make an exception.
With new twists in the case popping up every day and the mayor breathing down the police department’s neck, Paul needs to solve the case yesterday. It takes a crisis for Paul and Cliff to realize what started out as something casual could be everything they’ve both been looking for but never thought to find. But if the killer strikes again, they might never get that chance.
182 pages, ebook
First published June 29, 2019
101 people are currently reading
481 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 159 reviews
November 6, 2019
Audiobook - 3 stars
Story - 2.85 stars
This is a case of it's me not the book and Kale didn't help with the narration. He didn't have distinct voices for the characters.
Ugh! I wanted this to work so bad. The title has my name written all over it.
I know now there is a difference between MMR- Mystery and Gay mystery. I thought this would be a gay mystery because of the title Paul Monroe Mystery, only to find out a romance had been fixed somewhere in between the 5 listening hours.
The mystery was predictable, the bad guy was the stereotypical OTT bad guy. The investigation part kept going round in circles for the sake of the MCs relationship, when all the clues were right there.
The romance part was bam! boom! i did not buy the connection between the Paul and Cliff. I really didn't get to know them individually, so it was hard to buy them as a couple. And the only person i will tolerate getting sucked off during an investigation is Nick. The rest, please be professionals.
Overall, i was left disappointed. I felt the story was there but the execution failed.
Story - 2.85 stars
This is a case of it's me not the book and Kale didn't help with the narration. He didn't have distinct voices for the characters.
Ugh! I wanted this to work so bad. The title has my name written all over it.
I know now there is a difference between MMR- Mystery and Gay mystery. I thought this would be a gay mystery because of the title Paul Monroe Mystery, only to find out a romance had been fixed somewhere in between the 5 listening hours.
The mystery was predictable, the bad guy was the stereotypical OTT bad guy. The investigation part kept going round in circles for the sake of the MCs relationship, when all the clues were right there.
The romance part was bam! boom! i did not buy the connection between the Paul and Cliff. I really didn't get to know them individually, so it was hard to buy them as a couple. And the only person i will tolerate getting sucked off during an investigation is Nick. The rest, please be professionals.
Overall, i was left disappointed. I felt the story was there but the execution failed.
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October 16, 2020
RATING 4.5
Couldn’t Cheat Death is book one in the Paul Monroe Mystery series by A.P. Eisen. This trilogy is an ongoing relationship between the police detective, Paul Monroe and the hotel manager, Cliff Baxter. Each book contains a new case to be solved while Paul and Cliff navigate their feelings for one another.
Detective Paul Monroe of the Thornwood Park Police Department, is nearly forty years old and is doing the only job he’s ever wanted to do. His nickname is the Bulldog because he never gives up without a fight, refusing to let a case go unsolved. Work is pretty much all he ever thinks about. Paul is and has always been gay. But he’s in the closet. He never felt comfortable telling anyone at work, fearing their opinion of him. So he met his needs with random hook ups. But when a murder case brings him to the Starrywood Hotel, he realizes the hotel manager was a childhood friend of his late brother. But he’s all grown up now and Paul has most definitely noticed.
Cliff Baxter is the hotel manager at the Starrywood Hotel. When one of his employees is murdered in the parking lot, and his childhood crush from the age of thirteen walks in, now a very sexy detective, Cliff can’t believe it. And wow is he easy on the eyes now. Cliff is openly gay. He has been in a relationship where he was forced to be a secret and has vowed to never let that happen again. But one look at the detective and he is second guessing that vow.
Cliff and Paul proceed slowly, getting to know each other, jogging together, having a meal together, and it’s evident to the both of them that their attraction isn’t going away. At the same time, Paul is working hard at trying to solve his case and find the murderer. The more they delve into the life of their victim, the crazier the case gets.
“Relentless and with surprising skill, Paul took him apart with a single kiss, rendering every dream Cliff had ever had of him since his teenage years laughable in its ignorance.”
Has Paul finally found the missing piece in his life? Could Cliff finally be a reason for him to come out? Is it a risk he can take? As the case progresses and becomes more dangerous, suddenly everything becomes more clear.
“He’d never had a man like Paul, who touched him as if it meant something. As if he was worthy.”
I ended up loving this. At first Paul came off as stiff and all business. But all it took was the right person, Cliff, to help him to open up, both to his peers, but also open his heart. When you read this, there is also a little extra short you can download at the end which I did and loved it. The next book in this series, book two, is Diagnosis: Death. I can’t wait to see what case Paul works on next, as well as to see where things go between these two.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
Couldn’t Cheat Death is book one in the Paul Monroe Mystery series by A.P. Eisen. This trilogy is an ongoing relationship between the police detective, Paul Monroe and the hotel manager, Cliff Baxter. Each book contains a new case to be solved while Paul and Cliff navigate their feelings for one another.
Detective Paul Monroe of the Thornwood Park Police Department, is nearly forty years old and is doing the only job he’s ever wanted to do. His nickname is the Bulldog because he never gives up without a fight, refusing to let a case go unsolved. Work is pretty much all he ever thinks about. Paul is and has always been gay. But he’s in the closet. He never felt comfortable telling anyone at work, fearing their opinion of him. So he met his needs with random hook ups. But when a murder case brings him to the Starrywood Hotel, he realizes the hotel manager was a childhood friend of his late brother. But he’s all grown up now and Paul has most definitely noticed.
Cliff Baxter is the hotel manager at the Starrywood Hotel. When one of his employees is murdered in the parking lot, and his childhood crush from the age of thirteen walks in, now a very sexy detective, Cliff can’t believe it. And wow is he easy on the eyes now. Cliff is openly gay. He has been in a relationship where he was forced to be a secret and has vowed to never let that happen again. But one look at the detective and he is second guessing that vow.
Cliff and Paul proceed slowly, getting to know each other, jogging together, having a meal together, and it’s evident to the both of them that their attraction isn’t going away. At the same time, Paul is working hard at trying to solve his case and find the murderer. The more they delve into the life of their victim, the crazier the case gets.
“Relentless and with surprising skill, Paul took him apart with a single kiss, rendering every dream Cliff had ever had of him since his teenage years laughable in its ignorance.”
Has Paul finally found the missing piece in his life? Could Cliff finally be a reason for him to come out? Is it a risk he can take? As the case progresses and becomes more dangerous, suddenly everything becomes more clear.
“He’d never had a man like Paul, who touched him as if it meant something. As if he was worthy.”
I ended up loving this. At first Paul came off as stiff and all business. But all it took was the right person, Cliff, to help him to open up, both to his peers, but also open his heart. When you read this, there is also a little extra short you can download at the end which I did and loved it. The next book in this series, book two, is Diagnosis: Death. I can’t wait to see what case Paul works on next, as well as to see where things go between these two.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
September 12, 2019
One word: THAT is how you write a “murder mystery”. 😉❤️ I admit that my first interest in this book was because it was narrated by Kale Williams and you guys already know I love his narration. 😁 But my interest increased by double when I read the blurb. I knew I was just going to love our hero Detective Paul Monroe and oh boy, was I right!?! 😏😍 I freaking can’t believe this is a debut novel. 😳😱 It’s just soooooo good! 💜
To say that Detective Paul Monroe is a workaholic would be such an understatement. After all, he didn’t get the nick name bulldog by doing half arse jobs. When there’s a brutal, gruesome murder at a popular hotel in Thornwood Park, Paul and his partner has to scour and interview every potential suspect at the hotel. And cute and charming Cliff Baxter, hotel manager, has been more than helpful. Cliff has always had a crush on his best friend’s older brother Paul since they were in school. And now to meet his first love again more handsome and hotter than ever after so many years, Cliff is of course ready to assist Paul in “whatever” ways he needs. 😉 As these two gets to know each other more and more, the attraction and instant connection between them also becomes undeniably stronger. But Paul is in the closet and Cliff has sworn never again to date men who will keep him as a dirty little secret. But they have a bigger problem at hand than their love problems. They killer is on the loose and stirring terror in everyone’s mind. Now Paul has to catch the killer and convince Cliff to give him a chance at the same time before it becomes too late.
I loved reading somewhat grumpy and lonely Paul’s character. ❤️ It’s not even the consequences of coming out he’s afraid. He has just become used to the monotonous, lonely life of being a man on the force and become somewhat jaded over the years. And to balance him with an energetic, charming and kind Cliff Baxter, it was such a perfect match. 😍 I loved the slow and sensual romance between these two imperfectly perfect men. And I also genuinely liked the murder mystery aspect of it. Boy, until like 80%, I had no idea who is the killer. 😅 So many potential suspects and the investigation going on at the hotel and the police station was just fascinating and engaging. To learn and get the glimpses of the lives of so many fascinating characters, it was definitely a job well done. 👏 And the ending, omg, it was thrilling, exciting and simply amazing. Loved everything about it. I am so impressed with A.P. Eisen’s talented writing because if I didn’t know, I would have never thought this was a debut novel. A job very well done Miss Eisen. 👏 And Kale Williams did a spectacular job narrating this story as always. 🥰 His wonderful narration definitely added an extra depth to my enjoyment of the story. 👏 I really can’t wait for the second book of this series. I want to see more of Paul and Cliff and the journey to an EPIC HEA and I’m intrigued what kind of thrilling, exciting crimes Paul has to solve next. 😉 Recommended to anyone who loves murder mysteries with a healthy dose of romance. 💜😘
5 And Detective became the victim of this love spell stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio rating
Story- 4.75 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Narration - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance- 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
To say that Detective Paul Monroe is a workaholic would be such an understatement. After all, he didn’t get the nick name bulldog by doing half arse jobs. When there’s a brutal, gruesome murder at a popular hotel in Thornwood Park, Paul and his partner has to scour and interview every potential suspect at the hotel. And cute and charming Cliff Baxter, hotel manager, has been more than helpful. Cliff has always had a crush on his best friend’s older brother Paul since they were in school. And now to meet his first love again more handsome and hotter than ever after so many years, Cliff is of course ready to assist Paul in “whatever” ways he needs. 😉 As these two gets to know each other more and more, the attraction and instant connection between them also becomes undeniably stronger. But Paul is in the closet and Cliff has sworn never again to date men who will keep him as a dirty little secret. But they have a bigger problem at hand than their love problems. They killer is on the loose and stirring terror in everyone’s mind. Now Paul has to catch the killer and convince Cliff to give him a chance at the same time before it becomes too late.
I loved reading somewhat grumpy and lonely Paul’s character. ❤️ It’s not even the consequences of coming out he’s afraid. He has just become used to the monotonous, lonely life of being a man on the force and become somewhat jaded over the years. And to balance him with an energetic, charming and kind Cliff Baxter, it was such a perfect match. 😍 I loved the slow and sensual romance between these two imperfectly perfect men. And I also genuinely liked the murder mystery aspect of it. Boy, until like 80%, I had no idea who is the killer. 😅 So many potential suspects and the investigation going on at the hotel and the police station was just fascinating and engaging. To learn and get the glimpses of the lives of so many fascinating characters, it was definitely a job well done. 👏 And the ending, omg, it was thrilling, exciting and simply amazing. Loved everything about it. I am so impressed with A.P. Eisen’s talented writing because if I didn’t know, I would have never thought this was a debut novel. A job very well done Miss Eisen. 👏 And Kale Williams did a spectacular job narrating this story as always. 🥰 His wonderful narration definitely added an extra depth to my enjoyment of the story. 👏 I really can’t wait for the second book of this series. I want to see more of Paul and Cliff and the journey to an EPIC HEA and I’m intrigued what kind of thrilling, exciting crimes Paul has to solve next. 😉 Recommended to anyone who loves murder mysteries with a healthy dose of romance. 💜😘
5 And Detective became the victim of this love spell stars
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Audio rating
Story- 4.75 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌟
Narration - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Performance- 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Overall - 5 stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Disclaimer: An audio copy of this book was provided by the author for an honest and unbiased review.
September 5, 2019
Audio...5 stars
Story....4.5 stars
Grrrr….I am so pissed at myself for not waiting on more books in this series to be available. 😤 The end is not really a cliffhanger, but it is abrupt! It left me wanting MORE!!! 😢
The pacing of the story was good. The case was interesting enough, but not overly hard to solve. I also liked the chemistry between the MCs. But it seems this is going to be one of those series were their relationship is going to develop more and more with each book (love it!). So, some patience is required.
This book also left me I’m craving a Josh Lanyon book. Thank goodness I have A LOT of those in my library. 😊
Story....4.5 stars
Grrrr….I am so pissed at myself for not waiting on more books in this series to be available. 😤 The end is not really a cliffhanger, but it is abrupt! It left me wanting MORE!!! 😢
The pacing of the story was good. The case was interesting enough, but not overly hard to solve. I also liked the chemistry between the MCs. But it seems this is going to be one of those series were their relationship is going to develop more and more with each book (love it!). So, some patience is required.
This book also left me I’m craving a Josh Lanyon book. Thank goodness I have A LOT of those in my library. 😊
April 30, 2022
Audiobook: ***⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️***
Story: ***🙄🙄 - 🙄🙄🙄***
Actually, this ⬆️ needs to be multiplied by at least 10, but I guess you'll get my drift. 🤷♀️
Story: ***🙄🙄 - 🙄🙄🙄***
Actually, this ⬆️ needs to be multiplied by at least 10, but I guess you'll get my drift. 🤷♀️
July 3, 2019
For a debut mystery novel, this one kept me interested till the end. The characters both main and secondary were likable and represented people from all walks of life. Who knew that a local hotel was the epicenter of love conquests, jealousy and heartbreak? Told from dual POV, it shows how much secrets are uncovered once a person is dead, the lies and grudges people hold close to heart, and the willingness to air out someone else's dirty laundry in public.
Paul Monroe at first comes off as standoffish and uptight. His upbringing and the loss of his younger brother didn't allow him to be himself, so he buried his longing for someone in his life and satisfies his cravings with one night stands and being the best at his job - solving crimes. But there always comes a time, when one meets that special person that makes you question every belief you have and shakes you up. What are the chances that your little brother's best friend will be the one to break down your walls?
Cliff Baxter will always be true to himself. After being someone's dirty little secret, he will never do it again. When he sees Paul after so many years, the old attraction is back with a vengeance. I really liked Baxter - his professionalism, his easy manner and understanding of human nature make him great at his job. He is funny and sassy with his friends, but with Paul he is tender and gentle. But there is no chance for them. He was badly hurt before, so he protects his heart from getting too involved with a closeted man - been there, done that and he has two t-shirts to prove it!
This is a slow burn romance, told from dual POV that allowed me to get the gist of both men - how they thought, what they felt and how hot the attraction burned. I enjoyed the interactions they had with each other and the rest of the characters ranging from hilarious to serious filled with anguish. One point I wish author reiterated more was the police procedural, the forensics and coroner's side of the crime. The investigative process that included interviewing and hashing out the facts was well written but I would have liked more precise part of it be more on page rather than just mentioned here and there. The intimacy between men was s*exy hot and well written.
All in all, this was a wonderful debut work, and I will definitely continue reading this author's works. They have a lot of promise and potential. I recommend it.
Paul Monroe at first comes off as standoffish and uptight. His upbringing and the loss of his younger brother didn't allow him to be himself, so he buried his longing for someone in his life and satisfies his cravings with one night stands and being the best at his job - solving crimes. But there always comes a time, when one meets that special person that makes you question every belief you have and shakes you up. What are the chances that your little brother's best friend will be the one to break down your walls?
Cliff Baxter will always be true to himself. After being someone's dirty little secret, he will never do it again. When he sees Paul after so many years, the old attraction is back with a vengeance. I really liked Baxter - his professionalism, his easy manner and understanding of human nature make him great at his job. He is funny and sassy with his friends, but with Paul he is tender and gentle. But there is no chance for them. He was badly hurt before, so he protects his heart from getting too involved with a closeted man - been there, done that and he has two t-shirts to prove it!
This is a slow burn romance, told from dual POV that allowed me to get the gist of both men - how they thought, what they felt and how hot the attraction burned. I enjoyed the interactions they had with each other and the rest of the characters ranging from hilarious to serious filled with anguish. One point I wish author reiterated more was the police procedural, the forensics and coroner's side of the crime. The investigative process that included interviewing and hashing out the facts was well written but I would have liked more precise part of it be more on page rather than just mentioned here and there. The intimacy between men was s*exy hot and well written.
All in all, this was a wonderful debut work, and I will definitely continue reading this author's works. They have a lot of promise and potential. I recommend it.
July 17, 2024
~2.5~
If I can figure out the killer sooner than the detectives, there's a problem because I'm not very observant and usually second guess myself. Here I guessed immediately who killed Jerry the bartender and why. The mystery was basic and kind of lame.
And when the killer approached Cliff toward the end, Cliff turned into a sniffling coward. He didn't fight back at all, even though he was surely stronger than the perp. How embarrassing.
I wish I could say the romance was better than the mystery, but it wasn't. I didn't feel the connection between the MCs. Neither man was a particularly complex character, and the sex was kind of cringe.
I liked the dual POV. The pacing was steady, so even though I guessed the mystery, I didn't mind finishing the story. It was an easy read.
If this series were on KU, I'd consider reading the second book, but it's not, and I'd rather spend my book-buying budget on authors I love.
If I can figure out the killer sooner than the detectives, there's a problem because I'm not very observant and usually second guess myself. Here I guessed immediately who killed Jerry the bartender and why. The mystery was basic and kind of lame.
And when the killer approached Cliff toward the end, Cliff turned into a sniffling coward. He didn't fight back at all, even though he was surely stronger than the perp. How embarrassing.
I wish I could say the romance was better than the mystery, but it wasn't. I didn't feel the connection between the MCs. Neither man was a particularly complex character, and the sex was kind of cringe.
I liked the dual POV. The pacing was steady, so even though I guessed the mystery, I didn't mind finishing the story. It was an easy read.
If this series were on KU, I'd consider reading the second book, but it's not, and I'd rather spend my book-buying budget on authors I love.
July 21, 2019
Surprisingly, I like this book much more than I expected.
I have anticipated an easy and uncomplicated story and I got much more. First of all, the characters are much more complicated and interesting than I expected. Cliff may not be one of the most distinctive heroes, one of those who you remember for years, but he makes a very nice partner for Paul. And it's mainly about Paul after all.
Although closet case is a common theme in mm romances, for some reason I rarely read this type of books. It is not that I did not read them at all, but such an extensive plot focused on this topic rarely happens to me. The more I appreciate the way it is presented in this book. It makes Paul a very interesting hero. I’m waiting to read the next book to see how his relationship with Cliff will develop. Of course, I hope that it will not be one of those stories in which the couple are pecking or parting for the greater part of the book.
Finally, I should mention the suspense part, which is not only very extensive but also pretty noteworthy. What is rare in books of this type, the suspense is much more complex than romance that makes a background to it, or so I think. I really like it. Although I do not lie that I would be happy to see more of Cliff and Paul together.
I’ve rated this book 3 stars but seriously thinking about rising my rate up to 4. Waiting for the next book, I hope I won’t be disappointed.
I have anticipated an easy and uncomplicated story and I got much more. First of all, the characters are much more complicated and interesting than I expected. Cliff may not be one of the most distinctive heroes, one of those who you remember for years, but he makes a very nice partner for Paul. And it's mainly about Paul after all.
Although closet case is a common theme in mm romances, for some reason I rarely read this type of books. It is not that I did not read them at all, but such an extensive plot focused on this topic rarely happens to me. The more I appreciate the way it is presented in this book. It makes Paul a very interesting hero. I’m waiting to read the next book to see how his relationship with Cliff will develop. Of course, I hope that it will not be one of those stories in which the couple are pecking or parting for the greater part of the book.
Finally, I should mention the suspense part, which is not only very extensive but also pretty noteworthy. What is rare in books of this type, the suspense is much more complex than romance that makes a background to it, or so I think. I really like it. Although I do not lie that I would be happy to see more of Cliff and Paul together.
I’ve rated this book 3 stars but seriously thinking about rising my rate up to 4. Waiting for the next book, I hope I won’t be disappointed.
January 27, 2020
5 stars audio
4 stars story
4 stars story
September 24, 2019
I really enjoyed this audio book. 'Couldn't Cheat Death' is a new to me author's book, narrated by Kale Williams a familiar to me narrator and one that I've recently enjoyed while listening to Morgan Brice's 'Badlands' & 'Witchbane' series and now I'll be adding A.P. Eisen's 'Paul Monroe Mystery' series to that list of series that I enjoy on audio.
I'm looking forward to seeing where things go for the formerly closeted Detective Paul Monroe and the man who's made him want more in his life than just his job. This is going to be an interesting pairing and I'm looking forward to seeing how their relationship will change as they work together to solve whatever life throws at them.
I'm looking forward to seeing where things go for the formerly closeted Detective Paul Monroe and the man who's made him want more in his life than just his job. This is going to be an interesting pairing and I'm looking forward to seeing how their relationship will change as they work together to solve whatever life throws at them.
October 2, 2020
I now know this is Felice Stevens. No wonder it was good; sometimes she’s been hit or miss for me but this is my fave trope.
This appears to be a debut novel and I’m pretty impressed. Romantic suspense is my favorite trope and the story is an excellent example. Cliff was friends, many years before, with Paul’s younger brother and the murder at the hotel Cliff manages brings the deeply closeted Paul into his life again. I enjoyed following the plot through both men’s outlook; Paul the investigator and Cliff, concerned for his employees and guests. The romance doesn’t take long to develop in spite of Cliff’s reluctance in dating a closeted man. There’s a degree of procedural activity that balances well with the romance, keeping it predominant in the narrative. It’s just steamy enough but not sex-heavy. I did guess the perpetrators identity early on but I wasn’t certain until the tense conclusion. It’s very well written with clear prose and a satisfying HFN conclusion. Recommended reading and I’ll be watching for more from this author.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
This appears to be a debut novel and I’m pretty impressed. Romantic suspense is my favorite trope and the story is an excellent example. Cliff was friends, many years before, with Paul’s younger brother and the murder at the hotel Cliff manages brings the deeply closeted Paul into his life again. I enjoyed following the plot through both men’s outlook; Paul the investigator and Cliff, concerned for his employees and guests. The romance doesn’t take long to develop in spite of Cliff’s reluctance in dating a closeted man. There’s a degree of procedural activity that balances well with the romance, keeping it predominant in the narrative. It’s just steamy enough but not sex-heavy. I did guess the perpetrators identity early on but I wasn’t certain until the tense conclusion. It’s very well written with clear prose and a satisfying HFN conclusion. Recommended reading and I’ll be watching for more from this author.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or a promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review*
September 30, 2019
Audiobook reviewI’ve been on a mystery binge lately and couldn’t resist picking up this debut novel by A.P. Eisen, I needed something new in my life. And did I ever find it in this book! Now I have a new problem – no more books in this series have been published. Me and waiting are not friends, I’m a very impatient person if there ever was one. Then again, if the follow-up to Couldn’t Cheat Death is as good it might just be worth waiting for.
Paul Monroe lives for his work as a detective with the local police department. His latest case, the murder of a bartender and personal trainer, turns up more suspect than he knows what to do with. And everyone seems to have had a motive to kill the man. During the case he meets Cliff, the childhood friend of his younger brother. A man that’s more than a little tempting for this closeted detective.
Cliff had the biggest crush on Paul when he was a teenager. To his dismay that crush is still there years later. Nothing can ever come of it, after the hurt his previous relationships caused him, he promised himself to stay clear of closeted guys that wouldn’t acknowledge him in public. But their paths keep crossing, and it’s not long before they cross more than paths. But a killer is still out there, and for Paul work has always come first.
I’m always partial to characters that feel genuine. The ones that have issues and problems, and aren’t picture perfect. Both Paul and Cliff fit that description perfectly. They have baggage and fears and wants and hopes. I believed in them, both as individual but even more so in their relationship. There was no instant relationship or “I love you’s” it wasn’t easy and when the book ended they are still not truly solid. Their relationship have just started, and I’m guessing we will see it grow and mature in the books to come.
This book was narrated by the very talented Kale Williams. Right off the bat he captured me with his smooth voice and easy pacing. He made both Paul and Cliff come alive for the listener and brought you into the story with them. He might not have truly distinguished voices for his characters, but the feelings he adds to his narration still makes it a great listening experience, and one that ended way too soon.
Couldn’t Cheat Death didn’t feel like a debut novel. It was well-written with characters and a plot you could believe in. There was no drama for the sake of it, or over used plot devices that made you roll your eyes. It was everything that I hoped it would be, a great and engaging murder mystery wrapped up in a beautiful romance. And I want more!
A copy of this book was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review
July 16, 2019
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.25 stars
I’m a sucker for a murder mystery, and so when I read the blurb for this one, I quickly picked it up. This debut novel started out with a lot of promise, and held fairly steady throughout. I was immediately drawn in by the writing, which is heavy on description and paints a great picture. While it certainly wasn’t perfect, this book had a lot going for it and a lot that worked for me.
The MCs were really well done, and I liked having alternating third person POV so that we really got to understand where both men were coming from. Paul is tenacious and focused, and he lives and breathes the job. But part of that is hiding who he is, and not being ready to come out. Paul has valid reason for keeping it a secret earlier in his life, but now he’s fallen into a holding pattern and just doesn’t want to change the status quo. I like how his deepening feelings for Cliff changed his perspective on that, and while it wasn’t an easy transition, the book ends with promise in that regard.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
4.25 stars
I’m a sucker for a murder mystery, and so when I read the blurb for this one, I quickly picked it up. This debut novel started out with a lot of promise, and held fairly steady throughout. I was immediately drawn in by the writing, which is heavy on description and paints a great picture. While it certainly wasn’t perfect, this book had a lot going for it and a lot that worked for me.
The MCs were really well done, and I liked having alternating third person POV so that we really got to understand where both men were coming from. Paul is tenacious and focused, and he lives and breathes the job. But part of that is hiding who he is, and not being ready to come out. Paul has valid reason for keeping it a secret earlier in his life, but now he’s fallen into a holding pattern and just doesn’t want to change the status quo. I like how his deepening feelings for Cliff changed his perspective on that, and while it wasn’t an easy transition, the book ends with promise in that regard.
Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.
August 9, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2019/10/03/...
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
Rating: 3.5 Stars – that place between like and love
January 30, 2024
Never read this author before but this was a really nice surprice! Loved this crime mystery narrated but the fantastic Kale Williams. Totally liked the MCs and the story.
November 16, 2020
3.5 - rounding up for this debut book. I really enjoyed this book and was surprised to learn it was a debut book. I really liked Paul and while Cliff wasn't quite as interesting as Paul I liked him as well. The pacing was good, the characters had nice depth and the mystery was interesting (until the culprit became very obvious). I would have liked the author to have dropped a few less obvious clues because up until that point there were plenty of suspects and the mystery was really interesting. I liked the balance of mystery vs. romance. The chemistry between Paul and Cliff is definitely there although at the end the MCs are not settled in any form or fashion. That's okay though I like seeing the slow growth between MCs and I look forward to future books as Paul and Cliff continue to grow closer and the relationship develops. I will definitely plan to continue this series.
October 21, 2019
This story was so . . . very . . . average. The "bad guy" was so painfully obvious that it kind of ruined my ability to pay attention to any scenes where they were interviewing any other suspects. The closeted gay cop who finally meets someone worth coming out for storyline is kind of tired at this point. Even the sex was bland.
On the upside, I thought the dialog was nicely written, and the snarky comments about the victim's sex life were a hoot. For all its obviousness, at least there weren't any glaring plot holes in the mystery, which is more than some can manage. Also, the audiobook was quite well done. I'll give the next one a shot, especially if Kale Williams narrates.
On the upside, I thought the dialog was nicely written, and the snarky comments about the victim's sex life were a hoot. For all its obviousness, at least there weren't any glaring plot holes in the mystery, which is more than some can manage. Also, the audiobook was quite well done. I'll give the next one a shot, especially if Kale Williams narrates.
January 31, 2023
Reread 04/2022 review- 2.6 stars. I now agree with my original review’s rating, at least more than the last time I read it.
Reread 09/2021 review- 3.25〜3.4 stars. Yeah, I think I enjoyed this more than the first time, however my rating does not include nor did I read the sex scenes (which I think might have been part of the reason my rating was lower before) this time. Also, I do still agree with my original review, I do not feel much of a connection between the 2 MCs, also, Cliff kind of irritated me.
Original 12/20 review- 2.48 stars... I just didn’t care for them as a couple. 🤷🏻♀️
Reread 09/2021 review- 3.25〜3.4 stars. Yeah, I think I enjoyed this more than the first time, however my rating does not include nor did I read the sex scenes (which I think might have been part of the reason my rating was lower before) this time. Also, I do still agree with my original review, I do not feel much of a connection between the 2 MCs, also, Cliff kind of irritated me.
Original 12/20 review- 2.48 stars... I just didn’t care for them as a couple. 🤷🏻♀️
February 11, 2020
A.P. Eisen is a new author to me and this first Paul Monroe Mystery #1 had me drawn in from the first to the last page.
Exciting ,suspenseful ,emotional and attention grabbing . Loved Paul & Cliff's complicated characters and the way they came together and can't wait to read more of this .
Exciting ,suspenseful ,emotional and attention grabbing . Loved Paul & Cliff's complicated characters and the way they came together and can't wait to read more of this .
September 30, 2020
DNF @16%. I had already clocked 2 DNFs by Felice Stevens so if I had known this was her I would've steered clear. Her writing is like oil to my water. I don't always rate a DNF if I think it might just be a me thing or if there's a chance that whatever's bothering me might improve. I don't think that's the case here. It's clunky writing with too much emphasis on sexual attraction this early and during a murder investigation. When you're highlighting things that bug you & you've decided to never read this author again, it gets a rating.
December 22, 2021
It's consistently solid, but it's also consistently bland. Not bad. Just bland.
March 27, 2021
AP Eisen is a new to me author. I was given the ARC to read and review with no clue about this author's writing. I didn't expect much. MM sure, mystery sure.
But soon as I read the first chapter, I was hooked.
Couldn't Cheat Death was a really good mystery romance story that I enjoyed from the very start.
I used to read Agatha Christie when I was young, and I like this kind of storytelling sometimes nowadays.
The story plot was good, tho I predicted who's the bad guy quite fast, I liked this book a lot!
I heard that this is going to be a series, I can't be more excited!
AP Eisten is definitely an author I'm going to read again in the future.
Can't wait for the next book!
But soon as I read the first chapter, I was hooked.
Couldn't Cheat Death was a really good mystery romance story that I enjoyed from the very start.
I used to read Agatha Christie when I was young, and I like this kind of storytelling sometimes nowadays.
The story plot was good, tho I predicted who's the bad guy quite fast, I liked this book a lot!
I heard that this is going to be a series, I can't be more excited!
AP Eisten is definitely an author I'm going to read again in the future.
Can't wait for the next book!
January 26, 2020
I saw this book because it was a mixture of mystery and MM and also a new author.
Now unless I am watching tv or a film or reading a book, I can never decide who is the murderer. Unfortunately you get to a point in this story and its as if the sky opens up and a huge flashing arrow lands on the head of the culprit. Which is a shame because I was enjoying the mystery and at the time there were a lot of suspects.
The relationship between the main MCs was slow in build up and not any on page sex really.
I am going to read the next book to see how the relationship blossoms.
Its a shame about the flashing arrow because I think this might have been a four star read had it not been for that.
Now unless I am watching tv or a film or reading a book, I can never decide who is the murderer. Unfortunately you get to a point in this story and its as if the sky opens up and a huge flashing arrow lands on the head of the culprit. Which is a shame because I was enjoying the mystery and at the time there were a lot of suspects.
The relationship between the main MCs was slow in build up and not any on page sex really.
I am going to read the next book to see how the relationship blossoms.
Its a shame about the flashing arrow because I think this might have been a four star read had it not been for that.
March 25, 2021
For me, this was as generic as it gets. It too short for there to be anything very interesting happening. The mystery wasn't terrible but it was kind of OTT & man, the relationship was so boring and should have had been fleshed out more for it to be interesting. I understand that this is a series but it felt like this should have been MUCH longer as a build-up even to lead up to another book. I may have given more leeway if it was a serial-type of series like other romance mysteries I have read, but not for a short series like this. I doubt if I will keep reading.
September 21, 2022
~ 3.5 stars ~
Note to self: A.P. Eisen = Felice Stevens
"... I’ve just submitted the third book in the series to my editor and have decided to merge the two names, so The Paul Monroe Mystery series will now be listed as Felice Stevens writing as A.P. Eisen..."
Note to self: A.P. Eisen = Felice Stevens
"... I’ve just submitted the third book in the series to my editor and have decided to merge the two names, so The Paul Monroe Mystery series will now be listed as Felice Stevens writing as A.P. Eisen..."
August 25, 2019
I enjoyed the couple in this book: Paul and Cliff.
The mystery was so-so: I guessed the culprit from the moment they were introduced.
The slutty bisexual was a bit stereotype.
The mystery was so-so: I guessed the culprit from the moment they were introduced.
The slutty bisexual was a bit stereotype.
May 19, 2023
Listened to the audiobook, Kale Williams is a very interesting narrator. The mystery was quite good although fairly easy to figure out and the start of the relationship between the two MCs felt believable.
July 1, 2019
Note: An ARC was provided by the author via LesCourt ARC Team.
I love romantic suspense reads in general, but it's the M/M romantic suspense stories that are my absolute favorite. Maybe it's all the tension--sexual and otherwise--between the characters and throughout the story that really resonate with me, and when a book is particularly well-written enough to not just capture but hold my attention from start to finish, then I consider that a heck of a win. I was more than impressed with A.P. Eisen's first foray, what with an intriguing crime for main character Paul Monroe to solve and an equally captivating brewing romance between him and Cliff Baxter, his late brother's best friend and four years his junior. I appreciated that while the attraction was felt on both ends, it was subtle and took some time before either one became wholly comfortable to fully explore it. Eisen did a fantastic job with the mystery part of the book, with a number of supporting characters who could very well have been the killer. The person who did turn out to be the killer was my lone suspect, but even though I did figure out the whodunit portion, I still wanted to see how it would all be revealed and that shows how engaging the story was. With the crime solved, the romance ends on a hopeful and happy-for-now note; I look forward to reading more from the series and author. 4.5 stars for Couldn't Cheat Death. ♥
I love romantic suspense reads in general, but it's the M/M romantic suspense stories that are my absolute favorite. Maybe it's all the tension--sexual and otherwise--between the characters and throughout the story that really resonate with me, and when a book is particularly well-written enough to not just capture but hold my attention from start to finish, then I consider that a heck of a win. I was more than impressed with A.P. Eisen's first foray, what with an intriguing crime for main character Paul Monroe to solve and an equally captivating brewing romance between him and Cliff Baxter, his late brother's best friend and four years his junior. I appreciated that while the attraction was felt on both ends, it was subtle and took some time before either one became wholly comfortable to fully explore it. Eisen did a fantastic job with the mystery part of the book, with a number of supporting characters who could very well have been the killer. The person who did turn out to be the killer was my lone suspect, but even though I did figure out the whodunit portion, I still wanted to see how it would all be revealed and that shows how engaging the story was. With the crime solved, the romance ends on a hopeful and happy-for-now note; I look forward to reading more from the series and author. 4.5 stars for Couldn't Cheat Death. ♥
February 5, 2023
This is a good story and although the mystery is not very hard to crack, the characters kept me interested.
Cliff is nice and understanding but he also knows what he wants, and that isn't someone who is closeted and ashamed of being who he is. And his childhood's crush, Detective Paul Monroe, seems to be exactly that. And yet... a fling wouldn't be a bad thing, would it? :P
I liked the way in which the romance develops, slow and little bit dubiously. And I think this is the kind of romance that will take more than one book to be completely fulfilled. And that is NOT a complaining, at all. I need to get the next book ASAP :P
Kale Williams does a good job with the narration.
Okay, on a second reading, this book is still great, mostly because I find the characters really engaging. I might revisit the whole series once I finish my re-read of PsyCop :P
Cliff is nice and understanding but he also knows what he wants, and that isn't someone who is closeted and ashamed of being who he is. And his childhood's crush, Detective Paul Monroe, seems to be exactly that. And yet... a fling wouldn't be a bad thing, would it? :P
I liked the way in which the romance develops, slow and little bit dubiously. And I think this is the kind of romance that will take more than one book to be completely fulfilled. And that is NOT a complaining, at all. I need to get the next book ASAP :P
Kale Williams does a good job with the narration.
Okay, on a second reading, this book is still great, mostly because I find the characters really engaging. I might revisit the whole series once I finish my re-read of PsyCop :P
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