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Crimes of the Heart #2
The Heart Heist
When a gorgeous stranger wanders into his life one summer night he knows he's in trouble; he's going to break all his rules and probably his heart.
Duff Cleveland knows better than to open himself to love, that’s how you get hurt.
Jacob De Rossi is a family guy; he’s got the house and the picket fence he's just missing the man.
Something about Jacob has Duff wanting more, but how many just one more time’s can a dedicated hookup artist justify? He can hardly handle the life he’s living, having an actual boyfriend is impossible.
Jacob’s not letting Duff go easily. It’s obvious, to him at least, that Duff needs someone in his corner, and he is the man for the job.
Will Duff admit his heart is safe in Jacob's hands, or turn his back on the one thing in his life that makes sense?
The Heart Heist is a first-person, dual POV, following Duff Cleveland and Jacob De Rossi as Jacob woos Duff's reluctant heart. No cliffhanger, HEA guaranteed. Heat level, 4+. Can be read as a standalone but you may enjoy it even more if you read Feinted Heart first.
Duff Cleveland knows better than to open himself to love, that’s how you get hurt.
Jacob De Rossi is a family guy; he’s got the house and the picket fence he's just missing the man.
Something about Jacob has Duff wanting more, but how many just one more time’s can a dedicated hookup artist justify? He can hardly handle the life he’s living, having an actual boyfriend is impossible.
Jacob’s not letting Duff go easily. It’s obvious, to him at least, that Duff needs someone in his corner, and he is the man for the job.
Will Duff admit his heart is safe in Jacob's hands, or turn his back on the one thing in his life that makes sense?
The Heart Heist is a first-person, dual POV, following Duff Cleveland and Jacob De Rossi as Jacob woos Duff's reluctant heart. No cliffhanger, HEA guaranteed. Heat level, 4+. Can be read as a standalone but you may enjoy it even more if you read Feinted Heart first.
221 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 18, 2021
20 people are currently reading
149 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
52 books546 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 101 reviews
December 10, 2022
I read a lot of M/M romances and I know that they 99.9% end with a happy ever after...but there are some things that really make me want to shake some of the characters and it usually pops up its ugly head in EVERY single one unless it's a series like Morgan Brice's "Witchbane" or "Badlands" where the characters only went through the "he loves me, he loves me not" phase in the first book. The other thing that really bugs me is how the main characters almost always let their "best friend(s)" tell them what to do, how to do it, and who they should be doing it with, usually only making whatever situation 110% worse. I just want to yell "LEAVE THEM ALONE." "THEY ARE ADULTS!!!" Elle Keaton writes some short little series like this one that I read a lot of because there just isn't enough page count for this to happen as a rule, or at least if it does...not for very long. These two characters had very different childhoods that shaped their adulthoods. Jaccob has loving wonderfully caring grandparents that provide laughs and tender moments throughout this story...Duff was born and grew up in a commune with a hippy mother that had no clue how to be a mother and was pretty much on his own from a very early age. On his mother's death he lived with an aunt that loved him but had some very bad mental issues that Duff has to deal with. Jacob owned his own business and Duff was a male fashion model. A chance meeting brought them together and love and determination sealed them as one. It was a lovely little story with very little of the things that make me want to kill, or at least very badly damage some of the character's "best friends".
February 8, 2022
*4.5*
‘“And that last puzzle piece clicks into place, and I finally figure out the picture. Somewhere along the way, Jacob became my home.”
If you don’t also fall in love with Jacob, then really, you shouldn’t be reading romance!
This is a wonderful book that gives you that ‘awwww’ & ‘so sweet’ feeling the whole way through.
Duff is like Jacob’s stray cat - skittish and needs time to trust and feel safe.
Jacob is patient and caring and ready to prove he’s not going anywhere.
This was an easy and enjoyable read, that flowed nicely and left you with a smile on your face and excitement for the next book in the series.
‘“And that last puzzle piece clicks into place, and I finally figure out the picture. Somewhere along the way, Jacob became my home.”
If you don’t also fall in love with Jacob, then really, you shouldn’t be reading romance!
This is a wonderful book that gives you that ‘awwww’ & ‘so sweet’ feeling the whole way through.
Duff is like Jacob’s stray cat - skittish and needs time to trust and feel safe.
Jacob is patient and caring and ready to prove he’s not going anywhere.
This was an easy and enjoyable read, that flowed nicely and left you with a smile on your face and excitement for the next book in the series.
March 26, 2021
I already know Elle's books would have a place as examples in the dictionary if it had descriptions of book genres. The niche: sweet contemporary romance. Because honestly, I can't picture how this book can get any sweeter. I liked it a lot. Jacob and Duff are really cute, and while their progress wasn't easy it was incredibly sweet.
February 20, 2022
This series! I am loving the Crimes of the Heart series so much! Duff was such a great character in the first book and I wanted to know more about him and his past. His childhood was heartbreaking but it explains so much about how he is as an adult now. And Jacob! I love him and his grandparents so much! The DeRossi's are the very best family and I want to join them! Seeing Duff and Jacob find their way to each other despite their past was so rewarding. I love that Duff was able to find more of his family when he needed them, even if it was totally unexpected. The entire story was so sweet and I loved seeing what Arnie and Tobias were up to now. You can't go wrong with Elle Keaton's stories and this entire series is amazing! I received an ARC for an honest and fair review.
March 20, 2021
Oh, Jacob
You know those books you finish with a big smile on your face? This is one of them.
It's sweet, sad, funny, bright, and full of moments that make you feel all squishy.
Jacob is the kindest, most patient and understanding MC I've read in so long and the way he just steadfastly loves Duff melted my heart. I honestly had no idea Duff was this in need of love and home from the first book, the lost little stray.
The story never lagged or felt repetitive or stretched thin, either. A definite winner for me.
You know those books you finish with a big smile on your face? This is one of them.
It's sweet, sad, funny, bright, and full of moments that make you feel all squishy.
Jacob is the kindest, most patient and understanding MC I've read in so long and the way he just steadfastly loves Duff melted my heart. I honestly had no idea Duff was this in need of love and home from the first book, the lost little stray.
The story never lagged or felt repetitive or stretched thin, either. A definite winner for me.
March 26, 2021
The second book in the series brings Duff and Jacob's story. The author brings strong characters with an instant attraction and weaves a heartfelt love story with all the feels. Her secondary characters and descriptive scenes help to bring the story around. It's well written, moves fluidly and is a wonderful read.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and freely given.
January 1, 2022
I love the contrast between the high heat encounters and the slow burn relationship... the fact that Duff is so secretive and Jacob is so smitten is a wonderful contrast and the way the relationship builds in tiny increments, despite well meaning friends is fabulous
I do think that you could start with just The Heart Heist, but having read book 1, the antics of the side characters make so much sense...
I do think that you could start with just The Heart Heist, but having read book 1, the antics of the side characters make so much sense...
March 30, 2021
Sweet
I really enjoyed the slow burn of it. Duff took a long while to realise how he felt after a pretty unsettled childhood and adolescence. Jacob was so patient with him
I really enjoyed the slow burn of it. Duff took a long while to realise how he felt after a pretty unsettled childhood and adolescence. Jacob was so patient with him
June 8, 2021
This is my first Elle Keaton book and I really wanted to read this before the next one in the series comes out because the Fake Boyfriend troupe is everything. Focusing on the story and the characters, this was a really good read. The plot was great, the backstory for Duff was well written and flushed out, and both Duff and Jacob were likeable. You even get some really great side characters and a chosen family which is always a win for me. Where is fell flat for me is the romance between Duff and Jacob and it felt a bit too insta-lovey for me.
When Jacob sees Duff, it is pretty much love at first sight and Jacob is determined to make Duff his, even if he doesn't do hook-ups. Duff never gets attached and sticks to hook-ups after living a life where he could really only depend on himself. Duff is instantly attracted to Jacob and their hookup feels like more, or at least we are told, but I didn't really FEEL it. There was so much that happened separately or off the page that I never really understood how they could have such strong feelings for each other after a hookup or two and then radio silence or texts and phone calls that we didn't get to take part in.
There were moments, the way Jacob took care of Duff, that I could see some level of affection, but to jump to love so quickly (even if a year passes, sometimes time isn't what matters), it didn't feel right to me. I just didn't get it because I didn't get to go on the journey with them. Just a bit too much of telling and not enough showing or experiencing for me.
If I could have gotten more with Duff and Jacob. Even just some text messages between them or phone calls while he was away to really build the connection between them this could have easily been a 5-star read for me. But in the end, I just needed more than a surface level peek at these two together.
When Jacob sees Duff, it is pretty much love at first sight and Jacob is determined to make Duff his, even if he doesn't do hook-ups. Duff never gets attached and sticks to hook-ups after living a life where he could really only depend on himself. Duff is instantly attracted to Jacob and their hookup feels like more, or at least we are told, but I didn't really FEEL it. There was so much that happened separately or off the page that I never really understood how they could have such strong feelings for each other after a hookup or two and then radio silence or texts and phone calls that we didn't get to take part in.
There were moments, the way Jacob took care of Duff, that I could see some level of affection, but to jump to love so quickly (even if a year passes, sometimes time isn't what matters), it didn't feel right to me. I just didn't get it because I didn't get to go on the journey with them. Just a bit too much of telling and not enough showing or experiencing for me.
If I could have gotten more with Duff and Jacob. Even just some text messages between them or phone calls while he was away to really build the connection between them this could have easily been a 5-star read for me. But in the end, I just needed more than a surface level peek at these two together.
February 5, 2022
So, we met Duff in book one in the Crimes Of The Heart series, as Arnie's roommate. I'd say it's not absolutely necessary to have read that installment, but it would give some context to the bit of page time we get with Arnie and his boyfriend, Tobias.
As for The Heart Heist, it's a sweet dual POV slow burn that also manages to be pretty hot at the same time. There's a bit of an opposites attract vibe as Duff shuns commitment whilst Jacob is all about the relationship. Also, though they both had some level of challenges in their early years, they're at very different stages of dealing with those challenges. Jacob has a stable, if fairly solitary, homelife with a good relationship with his grandparents. The circumstances of Duff's childhood (as well as his current family situations), though, have had lasting effects that he only now is being forced to confront if he's to have a healthy relationship with Jacob.
The plot isn't exactly deep, but I'm not sure it needs to be. There's enough going on with Duff's familial trials to give the book substance. I really like the geographical descriptions and there's some great humour in the book, too. Much of this comes from Jacob's grandparents - Nonna and Nonno are fabulous side characters - and it's nice to see a bit of Arnie at his adorkable best, too.
Whilst my thoughts are for the most part positive, there are a couple of small niggles…Firstly, do your research if you're going to reference real-life events. In this case it's the mention of the Wherever I May Roam tour as a Guns'n'Roses event - that was Metallica's tour, though during it they co-headlined some stadium dates mid G'n'R's Use Your Illusion tour. It's a tiny thing in the grand scheme of the overall story, really it is, but I'm an unashamed music nerd so it annoyed me just enough to take me out of an emotionally charged moment. Secondly, I really dislike Robbie, Jacob's best friend. She's supposed to be super protective, I'm guessing, but honestly she reads to me more like a judgemental, opinionated gobshite.
Overall, I enjoyed Heist Of The Heart more than the first book in the series - Jacob really is the biggest sweetheart and you can't help but want to hug Duff after everything he's been through - and I'm looking forward to reading Simon's book next. 4*
A copy was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
As for The Heart Heist, it's a sweet dual POV slow burn that also manages to be pretty hot at the same time. There's a bit of an opposites attract vibe as Duff shuns commitment whilst Jacob is all about the relationship. Also, though they both had some level of challenges in their early years, they're at very different stages of dealing with those challenges. Jacob has a stable, if fairly solitary, homelife with a good relationship with his grandparents. The circumstances of Duff's childhood (as well as his current family situations), though, have had lasting effects that he only now is being forced to confront if he's to have a healthy relationship with Jacob.
The plot isn't exactly deep, but I'm not sure it needs to be. There's enough going on with Duff's familial trials to give the book substance. I really like the geographical descriptions and there's some great humour in the book, too. Much of this comes from Jacob's grandparents - Nonna and Nonno are fabulous side characters - and it's nice to see a bit of Arnie at his adorkable best, too.
Whilst my thoughts are for the most part positive, there are a couple of small niggles…Firstly, do your research if you're going to reference real-life events. In this case it's the mention of the Wherever I May Roam tour as a Guns'n'Roses event - that was Metallica's tour, though during it they co-headlined some stadium dates mid G'n'R's Use Your Illusion tour. It's a tiny thing in the grand scheme of the overall story, really it is, but I'm an unashamed music nerd so it annoyed me just enough to take me out of an emotionally charged moment. Secondly, I really dislike Robbie, Jacob's best friend. She's supposed to be super protective, I'm guessing, but honestly she reads to me more like a judgemental, opinionated gobshite.
Overall, I enjoyed Heist Of The Heart more than the first book in the series - Jacob really is the biggest sweetheart and you can't help but want to hug Duff after everything he's been through - and I'm looking forward to reading Simon's book next. 4*
A copy was provided by GRR. This is my honest review.
April 6, 2021
After feeling a little underwhelmed by the first book I was reluctant to pick up thie second book in the Crimes of the Heart series. The Heart Heist tells the story of Duff (Arnie's best friend from the first book) and Jacob who is a yoga instructor and a man ready to settle.
The story was again a bit average but I did quite like the whole "heist for the man you fell in love at first sight" idea. The title actually matches the story pretty amazingly.
Duff walks into a yoga class held by Jacob and from then their fate is sealed. Jacob feels an instant connection and after on hookup Duff is not far behind. Though Duff has commitment issues and a fear to open up and fall in love so their relationship is quite bumpy... and not a realtionship at all!
But after months of disappearing and returning their paths settle together.
Duff is a lonely, troubled young man who has had responsibilities since a very young age and asking for help is not easy on him. His reluctance to reach out to new people and form an attachment comes from a rough childhood and a non-existant support system.
Jacob is ready to fall in love and settle. He's traditional and kind. His quiet, loyal and warm behaviour is the sweetest.
I really liked the characters, both main and supporting, in this book. I liked the mention of mental health and moving past old pains and habits to open up to love.
The hot scenes were great, not too much, not too little and encomassed the emotionas of the characters.
What was a little plaine was the arc. It was a little bit slow and not much really happened. The emotional arc was great but I put it down frequently to check on other stuff because it didn't grab my attention.
Unfortunately , there were a lot of grammar mistakes in the book that gives it a cheap quality. The timing of things was also a little hurried and mentions of time did not match the one in the title.
All in all, it was a quite enjoyable book with little angst and some sweet characters and plot.
Read if you want an easy, happy and entertaining M/M romance!
The story was again a bit average but I did quite like the whole "heist for the man you fell in love at first sight" idea. The title actually matches the story pretty amazingly.
Duff walks into a yoga class held by Jacob and from then their fate is sealed. Jacob feels an instant connection and after on hookup Duff is not far behind. Though Duff has commitment issues and a fear to open up and fall in love so their relationship is quite bumpy... and not a realtionship at all!
But after months of disappearing and returning their paths settle together.
Duff is a lonely, troubled young man who has had responsibilities since a very young age and asking for help is not easy on him. His reluctance to reach out to new people and form an attachment comes from a rough childhood and a non-existant support system.
Jacob is ready to fall in love and settle. He's traditional and kind. His quiet, loyal and warm behaviour is the sweetest.
I really liked the characters, both main and supporting, in this book. I liked the mention of mental health and moving past old pains and habits to open up to love.
The hot scenes were great, not too much, not too little and encomassed the emotionas of the characters.
What was a little plaine was the arc. It was a little bit slow and not much really happened. The emotional arc was great but I put it down frequently to check on other stuff because it didn't grab my attention.
Unfortunately , there were a lot of grammar mistakes in the book that gives it a cheap quality. The timing of things was also a little hurried and mentions of time did not match the one in the title.
All in all, it was a quite enjoyable book with little angst and some sweet characters and plot.
Read if you want an easy, happy and entertaining M/M romance!
March 19, 2021
I just fell in love with Jacob and Duff and all of their family and friends in this book!! Especially Cat Bourne the Stray Cat!! Some funny times with him! Jacob though is my new Book Boyfriend!! Jacob is just a regular guy (Italian raised by his Nonna and Nonno!) looking for a real love and relationship and Duff is a more free spirited gorgeous model who does not realize that is what he is really looking for!! Until he meets his Yoga Instructor - Jacob!! Jacob is not one for hookups but even he cannot resist our Sexy Duff!!! I enjoyed that this was a very realistic relationship that contains all the humor, Family, Friends, Jobs etc that we all can relate too and had a great storyline without a huge amount of angst! The Story is told from both characters POV and you can just feel and really understand them both. Duff wants to give in to his feelings for Jacob, but he has a lot of not so easy history and current responsibilities that keep holding him back! You can feel the chemistry and feelings with these guys right from the start but it is still a beautiful story over the course of a year to get to the final HEA! Boy could I really feel Jacob's Heartbreaking when he would not see Duff for periods of time! I wanted to hug him!!! These two really click in Bed!! There are few Sexy times in just the right places throughout the story. With these two somehow even washing dishes is Sexy!! This book can be read as a standalone, but I have to say I really enjoyed Arnie's appearances and his story was book one in the series so I am going back to read that one!! I recommend this book for anyone looking for a Sweet Read with well developed Characters, very amusing internal musing and of course lots of Sexy!!! There is a Fabulous Epilogue too!!
December 5, 2021
Love in yoga
Another great book in this series!
In the first book we got to meet Duff, the roommate, and it was clear something was going on with him. Now in his own book we get to learn what was happening and also all about Duff's own history, which is a bit of a doozy. Duff has a rocky family history as well as a big family secret that is on going. He has used that to keep his distance from anyone, sticking with hookups and superficial conversation. When Duff goes to a yoga class and ends up hooking up with the instructor the plan is to keep it the same as always, but Jacob is unexpected and the two connect in an easy and natural way.
Jacob is a sweet man and happy in his life, but has his own relationship baggage and the recent failure of a big relationship. Jacob isn't one for hookups or meaningless connections and soon finds himself wanting to draw Duff into his life. As Duff keeps returning and more of their lives get connected it seems that just may be possible.
A very sweet story with lots to deal with over different family issues. What happened to Duff as a child shaped him, but it is also promises he made that keep him feeling trapped as an adult. Finding the trust in Jacob to slowly open up and see other paths is a big part in him finding a new way. Jacob also has to make decisions about what he wants. There are no promises of a relationship and the timing is everywhere, but it is up to Jacob whether he waits for Duff or finds something else. The two had a lot to explore as they figured out each other and their own pasts. The interplay with them and the people they know, some individually some together, created an amazing family as well. Great read!
Another great book in this series!
In the first book we got to meet Duff, the roommate, and it was clear something was going on with him. Now in his own book we get to learn what was happening and also all about Duff's own history, which is a bit of a doozy. Duff has a rocky family history as well as a big family secret that is on going. He has used that to keep his distance from anyone, sticking with hookups and superficial conversation. When Duff goes to a yoga class and ends up hooking up with the instructor the plan is to keep it the same as always, but Jacob is unexpected and the two connect in an easy and natural way.
Jacob is a sweet man and happy in his life, but has his own relationship baggage and the recent failure of a big relationship. Jacob isn't one for hookups or meaningless connections and soon finds himself wanting to draw Duff into his life. As Duff keeps returning and more of their lives get connected it seems that just may be possible.
A very sweet story with lots to deal with over different family issues. What happened to Duff as a child shaped him, but it is also promises he made that keep him feeling trapped as an adult. Finding the trust in Jacob to slowly open up and see other paths is a big part in him finding a new way. Jacob also has to make decisions about what he wants. There are no promises of a relationship and the timing is everywhere, but it is up to Jacob whether he waits for Duff or finds something else. The two had a lot to explore as they figured out each other and their own pasts. The interplay with them and the people they know, some individually some together, created an amazing family as well. Great read!
January 26, 2022
There were so many ways this story could have gone wrong for me. Often when a character has Jacob's traits - kind, steadfast, supportive - they are a pushover, easily taken advantage of. That's not the case here, though. Jacob is strong but gentle about it. He's persistent and tenacious but patient in his pursuit. He has confidence that supports what he's doing while he's still humble enough to self-check occasionally. He's actually the aggressor but in such an understated, loving way that it's a surprise to Duff when he catches on. Duff also could easily be a poorly written character, someone not in control of his life, weak, and wishy-washy. Instead, he's a man managing a difficult life to the best of his ability. Handling a situation many people would have dropped in a hot minute a long time ago. He is self-aware but also allows himself some delusion, avoidance and a little denial while he comes to terms with what is happening in his life. He's definitely overwhelmed but strong in that he keeps pushing through. Both characters felt real, were genuine, and was someone I would like to know. They are also both sexy as sin with wicked chemistry between them. I liked the supporting characters with one exception - one character that was too pushy and not apologetic enough for me to have tolerated them in my life. I loved absolutely everything about the cat, but especially his name. For a relationship journey with this many fits, starts and bumps, I had zero angst issues. The internal monologs were realistic, rather self-aware, and sometimes pretty entertaining in their own right. Overall, I loved Jacob and Duff and might well read their story again in the future.
April 5, 2021
I’m enjoying this series, and loved Duff and Jacob’s story. It was great seeing characters from the previous book as well, especially seeing Arnie from someone else’s perspective (other than Tobias’). I thought this was a lovely feel good story with wonderful characters, and I was rooting for Duff and Jacob to get their HEA as soon as they met.
Both Jacob and Duff are good guys, and are very clearly attracted to each other. I liked how Duff slowly opens up to Jacob, and how patient Jacob is waiting until Duff is ready. I love Arnie, and how he steps in when someone needs to. Rob’s a good friend too, and it’s obvious that she’s worried about Jacob getting hurt. I felt for Duff convincing himself that he can’t expect someone to deal with his life, there’s no prince, and he won’t get his HEA.
This is very much a story about friendship and family. Jacob’s family is his grandparents who raised him. I loved the scenes with them in, as they’re fabulous characters, and they love they share for each other, and for Jacob, left me with a warm fuzzy feeling. On the flip side, Duff’s aunt is a huge commitment with her issues, but when she’s not battling mental illness, it’s also obvious she loves him and feels bad for being a drain of his time, finances, and emotional energy.
Cat Bourne needs a mention as he’s an integral part of the story. I think his connection with Charley says a lot too. I’m looking forward to reading Charley’s book. He’s intrigued me from his first appearance on page.
I loved the ending, and the scene with Duff’s dad, and thought it was perfect for this wonderfully satisfying read.
Both Jacob and Duff are good guys, and are very clearly attracted to each other. I liked how Duff slowly opens up to Jacob, and how patient Jacob is waiting until Duff is ready. I love Arnie, and how he steps in when someone needs to. Rob’s a good friend too, and it’s obvious that she’s worried about Jacob getting hurt. I felt for Duff convincing himself that he can’t expect someone to deal with his life, there’s no prince, and he won’t get his HEA.
This is very much a story about friendship and family. Jacob’s family is his grandparents who raised him. I loved the scenes with them in, as they’re fabulous characters, and they love they share for each other, and for Jacob, left me with a warm fuzzy feeling. On the flip side, Duff’s aunt is a huge commitment with her issues, but when she’s not battling mental illness, it’s also obvious she loves him and feels bad for being a drain of his time, finances, and emotional energy.
Cat Bourne needs a mention as he’s an integral part of the story. I think his connection with Charley says a lot too. I’m looking forward to reading Charley’s book. He’s intrigued me from his first appearance on page.
I loved the ending, and the scene with Duff’s dad, and thought it was perfect for this wonderfully satisfying read.
March 21, 2021
I loved Jacob and Duff’s story.
The Heart Heist is instant attraction/hookup that turns into a delicious slow-burn love story. Duff’s life is complicated. He’s a model that travels a lot but he also has a family obligation that he doesn’t talk much about. Jacob is settled into the house his grandparents deeded to him when they moved into assisted living. He also owns his own yoga studio – which is how he meets Duff.
There are so many things that I loved about this book. Jacob is kind of the perfect guy. He can support himself and he is kind and caring and wants to settle down with the right man. I wanted to snap him up for myself. 😊 Duff is a serial hookup artist who only does one-night stands until he meets Jacob. The instant attraction the feel for each other can’t be denied but Duff fights it all the way.
I love how descriptive Elle Keaton’s writing is. I’ve only visited Seattle once, for a few days, and now I want to go back and see it through the eyes of Jacob and Duff. This story takes place over several months and she really does a fantastic job of describing the various seasons of the year and what they look like in Seattle.
This is a fairly low-angst story, told in alternating first person POV and I can’t say enough good things about it. There are several wonderful secondary characters and I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
The Heart Heist is instant attraction/hookup that turns into a delicious slow-burn love story. Duff’s life is complicated. He’s a model that travels a lot but he also has a family obligation that he doesn’t talk much about. Jacob is settled into the house his grandparents deeded to him when they moved into assisted living. He also owns his own yoga studio – which is how he meets Duff.
There are so many things that I loved about this book. Jacob is kind of the perfect guy. He can support himself and he is kind and caring and wants to settle down with the right man. I wanted to snap him up for myself. 😊 Duff is a serial hookup artist who only does one-night stands until he meets Jacob. The instant attraction the feel for each other can’t be denied but Duff fights it all the way.
I love how descriptive Elle Keaton’s writing is. I’ve only visited Seattle once, for a few days, and now I want to go back and see it through the eyes of Jacob and Duff. This story takes place over several months and she really does a fantastic job of describing the various seasons of the year and what they look like in Seattle.
This is a fairly low-angst story, told in alternating first person POV and I can’t say enough good things about it. There are several wonderful secondary characters and I’m really looking forward to reading the next book in this series.
An advanced copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
February 13, 2022
*4.5 stars* The Heart Heist is an impactful hurt/comfort romance. This story packs a punch, especially in contrast to the first book in the series, which was premised on machinations and misunderstandings. Here, we meet Jacob, who’s single and lonely, but not due to any particular trauma. He just hasn’t found the right person. Duff, in contrast, has baggage aplenty. He is a famous, international model with a complicated life and family obligations. He’s anti-commitment, unwilling to give his heart to anyone.
Jacob teaches yoga classes and he meets Duff when Duff comes to take one of Jacob’s classes. The attraction is strong and immediate, which leads to a hookup with an undercurrent of something more. Jacob wants more, but Duff denies it even though at heart, he clearly does too. The story continues with these two men coming together and separating over and over again over the course of many months. Jacob wants Duff and tries to be patient. Duff refuses to give Jacob his heart, even though he wants to. Yet he can’t walk away either because of Jacob’s irresistible pull. It’s painful for both of them in different ways, but Duff’s actions and refusal to let Jacob in ultimately drive Jacob to a choice: fight for Duff or let him go. But the status quo cycle of heartbreak has to end one way or another.
This love story features two endearing men who you desperately want together. It’s an emotional journey that ends with a swoon-worthy conclusion. Highly recommend.
Jacob teaches yoga classes and he meets Duff when Duff comes to take one of Jacob’s classes. The attraction is strong and immediate, which leads to a hookup with an undercurrent of something more. Jacob wants more, but Duff denies it even though at heart, he clearly does too. The story continues with these two men coming together and separating over and over again over the course of many months. Jacob wants Duff and tries to be patient. Duff refuses to give Jacob his heart, even though he wants to. Yet he can’t walk away either because of Jacob’s irresistible pull. It’s painful for both of them in different ways, but Duff’s actions and refusal to let Jacob in ultimately drive Jacob to a choice: fight for Duff or let him go. But the status quo cycle of heartbreak has to end one way or another.
This love story features two endearing men who you desperately want together. It’s an emotional journey that ends with a swoon-worthy conclusion. Highly recommend.
March 26, 2021
Four main people:
MC Jacob and his BF Robbie
MC Diff and his BF Arnie
Honorable mention to Jacob’s grandparents, Robbie’s husband Kev, and Arnie’s boyfriend Tobias
This is a dual POV story about Duff and Jacob. Duff is a model and lives with his best friend Arnie. He wonders into Jacob’s yoga class one sweltering July day and the sparks fly. Over the course of the next six months, the two have several hook-ups. Duff is the quintessential commitment-phobic guy who is in serious denial about he fact that he is falling in live with Jacob. Jacob, on the other hand, is the long suffering saint who desperately wants a committed relationship with the patience of Job and the heart of Florence Nightingale. I might add he has more patience than I have as evidenced by his determination with the stray cat he waited eight months to adopt and the man he waited several months for. But January (chap 16) I wanted to give up on them getting together. Then a tenacious Jacob stole my heart by going after the illusive Duff. Convinced something is wrong, because the connection they share is real, Jacob goes to find Arnie or Duff. What he finds is Duff in the middle of caring for his aunt. Jacob will make you cry, scream, and swoon with his undying devotion to Duff.
Enjoy this story of a determined man who refuses to give up on the one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
MC Jacob and his BF Robbie
MC Diff and his BF Arnie
Honorable mention to Jacob’s grandparents, Robbie’s husband Kev, and Arnie’s boyfriend Tobias
This is a dual POV story about Duff and Jacob. Duff is a model and lives with his best friend Arnie. He wonders into Jacob’s yoga class one sweltering July day and the sparks fly. Over the course of the next six months, the two have several hook-ups. Duff is the quintessential commitment-phobic guy who is in serious denial about he fact that he is falling in live with Jacob. Jacob, on the other hand, is the long suffering saint who desperately wants a committed relationship with the patience of Job and the heart of Florence Nightingale. I might add he has more patience than I have as evidenced by his determination with the stray cat he waited eight months to adopt and the man he waited several months for. But January (chap 16) I wanted to give up on them getting together. Then a tenacious Jacob stole my heart by going after the illusive Duff. Convinced something is wrong, because the connection they share is real, Jacob goes to find Arnie or Duff. What he finds is Duff in the middle of caring for his aunt. Jacob will make you cry, scream, and swoon with his undying devotion to Duff.
Enjoy this story of a determined man who refuses to give up on the one.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 16, 2022
I decided to review Heart Heist, book 2 in this series, and The Boyfriend Gambit together.
Their tropes are different and they can be read as standalone but they felt like an ongoing series.
This is one of those series that the characters from all the books are really involved in each story.
Everything started with Arnie Ferguson and Tobias Barrington (I cannot stop reading this name over and over. It sounds like it belongs to a fluffy, entitled and snob cat. The real Tobias is sweet and quiet.) in Feinted Love, book 1 in the series. I admit I haven't read this book. But I feel I don't have to because Arnie and Tobias, especially Arnie, are front and center in books 2 & 3.
We have to think of Arnie as the instigator and the fairy matchmaker of our couples, Duff & Jacob, Charley & Simon.
Heart Heist is Duff & Jacob's story. An opposites-attract story and somehow a hurt-comfort story. There is insta-lust but not insta-love. At least from Duff's side. Their story spans several months and this is something that I liked. You are never sure when they will finally connect for real and decide this is IT for them.
The Boyfriend Gambit is a second chance story and a love like ours will never die (is this a trope?! I wonder). Charley and Simon are soooo hot together that I just can't.
The common trope in these stories is Found Family. Even though some of the characters are related the love and support that go around are not exclusive to blood relatives.
I enjoyed reading both books. They were cute and somehow fairytalish. What does that mean you ask? All our MCs are nice and even though they make bad decisions you cannot hate them. They are kind and offer their love unconditionally.
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the ARCs!
Their tropes are different and they can be read as standalone but they felt like an ongoing series.
This is one of those series that the characters from all the books are really involved in each story.
Everything started with Arnie Ferguson and Tobias Barrington (I cannot stop reading this name over and over. It sounds like it belongs to a fluffy, entitled and snob cat. The real Tobias is sweet and quiet.) in Feinted Love, book 1 in the series. I admit I haven't read this book. But I feel I don't have to because Arnie and Tobias, especially Arnie, are front and center in books 2 & 3.
We have to think of Arnie as the instigator and the fairy matchmaker of our couples, Duff & Jacob, Charley & Simon.
Heart Heist is Duff & Jacob's story. An opposites-attract story and somehow a hurt-comfort story. There is insta-lust but not insta-love. At least from Duff's side. Their story spans several months and this is something that I liked. You are never sure when they will finally connect for real and decide this is IT for them.
The Boyfriend Gambit is a second chance story and a love like ours will never die (is this a trope?! I wonder). Charley and Simon are soooo hot together that I just can't.
The common trope in these stories is Found Family. Even though some of the characters are related the love and support that go around are not exclusive to blood relatives.
I enjoyed reading both books. They were cute and somehow fairytalish. What does that mean you ask? All our MCs are nice and even though they make bad decisions you cannot hate them. They are kind and offer their love unconditionally.
Thank you @gayromancereviews for the ARCs!
November 1, 2025
Better than Book 1 - Some spoilage below
Here we see Arnie, Duff’s best friend from Book 1, in the eyes of other people that aren’t in love with him. Not only is he still a little slow and a lot annoying but it may be moreso. But I’d still take him over Robbie. What is it with authors creating female characters that deserve only to live alone a desert island? Robbie helped Jacob get over a heartbreak ONCE, in HIGH SCHOOL, and decides to appoint herself Jacob’s lifelong relationship guardian. She decides she dislikes Duff because after only knowing Jacob for 4 months - I counted - that he’s not good enough because he’s not trying to commit to Jacob. She’s very rude to Duff and very pushy with Jacob. Jacob being a pushover doesn’t help. I don’t like her at all.
It’s completely understandable why Duff is kind of stand-offish. He’s good looking, but wasn’t raised well: he had a mom who was both careless & carefree, and they were impoverished; he was about 2 years behind in school & didn’t have any friends except Arnie; and he was stuck taking care of a mentally ill aunt who wouldn’t always take her meds and swore Duff to secrecy about her illness. It’s a lot. He thought he was too much and yet not enough. Jacob thought he wasn’t good enough just because Duff was a model. But other than his friendship with Robbie and his lack of cat-naming talent, he was pretty likeable. I could hardly put this one down.
Here we see Arnie, Duff’s best friend from Book 1, in the eyes of other people that aren’t in love with him. Not only is he still a little slow and a lot annoying but it may be moreso. But I’d still take him over Robbie. What is it with authors creating female characters that deserve only to live alone a desert island? Robbie helped Jacob get over a heartbreak ONCE, in HIGH SCHOOL, and decides to appoint herself Jacob’s lifelong relationship guardian. She decides she dislikes Duff because after only knowing Jacob for 4 months - I counted - that he’s not good enough because he’s not trying to commit to Jacob. She’s very rude to Duff and very pushy with Jacob. Jacob being a pushover doesn’t help. I don’t like her at all.
It’s completely understandable why Duff is kind of stand-offish. He’s good looking, but wasn’t raised well: he had a mom who was both careless & carefree, and they were impoverished; he was about 2 years behind in school & didn’t have any friends except Arnie; and he was stuck taking care of a mentally ill aunt who wouldn’t always take her meds and swore Duff to secrecy about her illness. It’s a lot. He thought he was too much and yet not enough. Jacob thought he wasn’t good enough just because Duff was a model. But other than his friendship with Robbie and his lack of cat-naming talent, he was pretty likeable. I could hardly put this one down.
April 5, 2021
4.25 Stars
Confession time: I haven't read book 1 in the series, but The Heart Heist can totally be read as a standalone. That said, I'll go back and add Feinted Love to my ever-growing TBR, because Arnie and Tobias sound really great!
I loved Jacob, he was steadfast, loyal, persistent, and had the patience of a saint. I liked Duff, although it took me a while to really warm up to him. It's not that he was bad, it was just that I felt Jacob was the one going all in and he was just, well, there. My feelings for him changed once I realized how good he was with his aunt, and how much he wanted to trust Jacob. The parallels of Duff and Cat Bourne, the stray cat Jacob won over, weren't lost in me, either! LOL! Duff and Jacob had amazing chemistry and I really liked them together.
I really liked Jacob's grandparents, Duff's aunt, and all of Duff and Jacob's friends. I would've liked to see more of Duff's newfound dad, though.
Overall, this was a really good slow burn romance. Jacob was amazing and he deserved winning Duff's love after how patient and sweet he was with him and I really enjoyed reading their journey towards their HEA.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
Confession time: I haven't read book 1 in the series, but The Heart Heist can totally be read as a standalone. That said, I'll go back and add Feinted Love to my ever-growing TBR, because Arnie and Tobias sound really great!
I loved Jacob, he was steadfast, loyal, persistent, and had the patience of a saint. I liked Duff, although it took me a while to really warm up to him. It's not that he was bad, it was just that I felt Jacob was the one going all in and he was just, well, there. My feelings for him changed once I realized how good he was with his aunt, and how much he wanted to trust Jacob. The parallels of Duff and Cat Bourne, the stray cat Jacob won over, weren't lost in me, either! LOL! Duff and Jacob had amazing chemistry and I really liked them together.
I really liked Jacob's grandparents, Duff's aunt, and all of Duff and Jacob's friends. I would've liked to see more of Duff's newfound dad, though.
Overall, this was a really good slow burn romance. Jacob was amazing and he deserved winning Duff's love after how patient and sweet he was with him and I really enjoyed reading their journey towards their HEA.
*** Copy provided to Bayou Book Junkie for my reading pleasure, a review wasn't a requirement. ***
December 29, 2021
Okay so I’ve gotta say I almost didn’t continue on after the first book of this series but I’m really glad I did! Duff and Jacob were really good together. Honestly I may be half in love with Jacob myself after that haha. I loved Jacob’s unfailing kindness and patience and even though the long periods of silence from Duff made it slightly harder to love him I found myself rooting for his HEA.
There were a few things though. First the timeline confused me. It seemed like the story started at the end of the first book but Arnie definitely mentioned a lot of about Duff and “yoga guy” and Jacob was even mentioned by name a few times during the course of Tobias and Arnie’s story. It annoyed me quite often while reading that the timelines just don’t make total sense. I also thought that Robbie was a little too brash and aggressive it made me not like her at all and then Elle skipped over any redemption with a cut scene. I did think the steam factor was better in this one and I loved the edge of dominance that Jacob showed! But there was a lot of fade to black which I’m not a huge fan of.
Overall this was an enjoyable read that I definitely liked better than the first one and made me more excited to see what the heck is going on with Simon and charley!
There were a few things though. First the timeline confused me. It seemed like the story started at the end of the first book but Arnie definitely mentioned a lot of about Duff and “yoga guy” and Jacob was even mentioned by name a few times during the course of Tobias and Arnie’s story. It annoyed me quite often while reading that the timelines just don’t make total sense. I also thought that Robbie was a little too brash and aggressive it made me not like her at all and then Elle skipped over any redemption with a cut scene. I did think the steam factor was better in this one and I loved the edge of dominance that Jacob showed! But there was a lot of fade to black which I’m not a huge fan of.
Overall this was an enjoyable read that I definitely liked better than the first one and made me more excited to see what the heck is going on with Simon and charley!
February 1, 2022
I love Nonna and Nonno! I want these grandparents in my life! These supporting characters stole every scene they were in and the love they shower not only on Jacob but Duff as well by extension definitely came through the page and wrapped me in a big Italian grandmother hug. Believe me, I did not have grandparents like this. This book was so good! I have been curious about Duff and his “yoga guy” ever since reading the first book in this series. I was NOT disappointed. I was so quickly invested in Duff and Jacob that I could not put this story down. I would give this more than five stars if it was possible. Duff is too afraid of people leaving him and letting him down and too exhausted from trying to care for his aunt that he feels like he has no room for commitment. But no matter how often he leaves, he keeps coming back to Jacob’s yoga class. There is something about the other man that fills empty spaces and soothes his soul. And Jacob knows there is more going on with Duff than the other man lets on. Love Love Love 💕! Now I have to go read Charley and Simon’s story. (I love a redemption/second chance tale so I am really looking forward to that one.)
February 15, 2022
I loved this book! Everyone deserves a Jacob in their lives. We first met Duff in Feinted Love, the first book in Elle Keaton’s Crimes of the Heart Series. He was a serial “One and Done” guy, but you knew there was more to him than that. We discover his story in The Heart Heist. He finally meets the single guy he can’t be done with in Jacob, a Yoga instructor and all around family guy. Jacob realizes after their first encounter that Duff is a complicated guy but one worth taking the time to win over. He’s in for the long game to get what he wants and understands that slow and steady will win the race for Duff’s heart. I love how the author portrayed the path of their relationship and how Jacob kept his determination to not give up on Duff. Relationships are work and those that will be important will be well worth the effort you have to put in. The author pulled me into their relationship until I felt personally invested. I can’t wait to see what she brings us in Charlie’s story in the next series installment! I recommend picking up this series for some fun, romantic reading!
March 24, 2021
Duff is such a sweet and slightly damaged guy hiding his feelings and a need to be loved from the world by working non stop and sleeping with guys that definitely don't make him look twice. He feels like his problems are too much too share with someone else. One night a visit to a random yoga studio has him looking at thinks through a different lens. Jacob is the owner of the yoga studio and he is a man with a big heart who is looking for someone to share his life with, besides his cat that is. After Duff's first yoga session he and Jacob can't resist the attraction they have for each other. Duff thinks it's just a fling but the wonderful and caring Jacob has burrowed his way into Duff's heart. Will he open himself up and let love in? This story is beautiful and a bit sad, but you get a wonderful ending for these two sweet guys. I need to go and read Feinted Love now after meeting Arnie and Tobias in this book. I also adored Jacob's grandparent's. They were hilarious. Highly recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 13, 2022
Wonderful continuation of this series
I enjoyed this second book in the Crimes of the Heart series. I somehow read the books out of order so it was amusing to read scenes that will play out in book three before they happened.
Jacob and Duff are great MCs and I was all in one them and rooting for their HEA right for the beginning. Keaton does a great job in building these characters as tying them in with the established characters from book one while also cleverly setting up book three. I love when authors do such a smooth job of creating their worlds and their characters.
The secondary characters here are not only a lot of fun but they do a ton to propel the narrative. That’s a big plus for me.
There are quite a few proofreading issues which is unusual for Keaton’s books. Alps, there were a couple places where the storytelling seemed to drag as things got kind of repetitive. But these are things that most likely won’t interfere much with your enjoyment of the story.
I enjoyed this second book in the Crimes of the Heart series. I somehow read the books out of order so it was amusing to read scenes that will play out in book three before they happened.
Jacob and Duff are great MCs and I was all in one them and rooting for their HEA right for the beginning. Keaton does a great job in building these characters as tying them in with the established characters from book one while also cleverly setting up book three. I love when authors do such a smooth job of creating their worlds and their characters.
The secondary characters here are not only a lot of fun but they do a ton to propel the narrative. That’s a big plus for me.
There are quite a few proofreading issues which is unusual for Keaton’s books. Alps, there were a couple places where the storytelling seemed to drag as things got kind of repetitive. But these are things that most likely won’t interfere much with your enjoyment of the story.
August 31, 2024
The Heart Heist is the second book in Elle Keaton’s Crimes of the Heart series. It features Duff, the roommate of book one MC Arnie. Duff is a damaged soul. His mom died when he was 12 years old. The aunt he went to live with has a severe mental illness. He refuses to get close to anyone and his relationships are all just hook-ups. His love interest is Jacob. Jacob is an optimist and wants a long time/permanent relationship. Jacob knows right away that Duff is the one for him. Duff unfortunately cannot deal with that, so he flits in and out of Jacob’s life. Both Jacob and Arnie have a great support system – both born and made families. They are very caring, sometimes too caring and meddlesome. Jacob’s grandparents are fantastic especially his potty-mouthed Nonna. The two men struggle to find the HEA so when it comes it is extra sweet. I highly recommend this book and series. The books can be read as stand-alone but since the couple from book one is in this book I recommend reading them in order.
March 26, 2021
Duff’s used to going it alone-- his mother died when he was young, he’s never met his father, his aunt has always needed him as much, or more, as he needed her, and his job as a model just barely pays her medical bills. He’s never had a person of his own, and he’s pretty sure he doesn’t want one, but something makes him keep coming back to Jacob. Jacob’s had all of the advantages Duff hasn’t-- he has a stable, loving family, a job he likes, and a home of his own. He’s also got the patience of a saint, and he sets out trying to show that patience and love to Duff, who, like the stray cat Jacob also adopts, is reluctant, but ever so tempted, to trust. There’s a lot of sweetness in this story, a touch of angst, a fair amount of steam, a great supporting cast of friends and family members, and a bit of a love letter to Seattle, awful weather and all. All in all, a rewarding read.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 27, 2021
Duff Cleveland is a model who knows not to open his heart to love. He had a rough childhood and he doesn’t trust, nor does he want to be hurt. Jacob De Rossi is a yoga instructor, very patient and kind. When he sees Duff for the first time, he’s sure he has met “the One”. Jacob is looking for someone to share his life. But Duff doesn’t think he is made for relationships. Their hook-up is a life-changing event, but it won’t happen quickly, and that may be the best thing because a solid foundation is established between them that will keep their eventual relationship strong.
This is such a good story line with a powerful life lesson. The characters are likable and I was glad to see Jacob take such a serious interest in Duff. Their family backgrounds reveal how they face their own situation. Having a steady, dependable person like Jacob gives Duff someone he can begin to trust. Will he take the chance?
This is such a good story line with a powerful life lesson. The characters are likable and I was glad to see Jacob take such a serious interest in Duff. Their family backgrounds reveal how they face their own situation. Having a steady, dependable person like Jacob gives Duff someone he can begin to trust. Will he take the chance?
February 19, 2022
A new sweet story in the Crimes of the Heart series.
For everyone who’s been curious about Duff, Arnie’s best friend and roommate, here is his story. We learn about his past, a difficult one, and his present doesn’t seem to fare much better. He’s balancing so many things an emotional entanglement is the last thing he thinks he needs. But Jacob De Rossi is like a siren call he cannot seem to resist too, and soon one hookup becomes two, then more, and sooner than he realises he’s gone and lost his heart to the tender, caring and super hot yoga instructor.
The book is not super high on the angst, but both Duff and Jacob have issues from their past which go quite deep (especially Duff) and make the book a very emotional read.
My heart went to Duff, but I frankly adored Jacob. His Italian brand of “I’m taking care of you by feeding you” was spot on, and I loved his steady, solid presence and the patience he had with Duff.
For everyone who’s been curious about Duff, Arnie’s best friend and roommate, here is his story. We learn about his past, a difficult one, and his present doesn’t seem to fare much better. He’s balancing so many things an emotional entanglement is the last thing he thinks he needs. But Jacob De Rossi is like a siren call he cannot seem to resist too, and soon one hookup becomes two, then more, and sooner than he realises he’s gone and lost his heart to the tender, caring and super hot yoga instructor.
The book is not super high on the angst, but both Duff and Jacob have issues from their past which go quite deep (especially Duff) and make the book a very emotional read.
My heart went to Duff, but I frankly adored Jacob. His Italian brand of “I’m taking care of you by feeding you” was spot on, and I loved his steady, solid presence and the patience he had with Duff.
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