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Twist of Fate #4
Above and Beyond
Lucky
Two years ago I humiliated myself by declaring my love to an older man who clearly didn’t share my feelings. And that’s fine. One day Zach will come around. Meanwhile, I’ve built a life for myself in northern Montana, pursuing my college degree while working hard toward certification in high-risk alpine search and rescue on the side. And perhaps I’ve kept the danger part a secret from my two dads. After all, what they don’t know won’t hurt them...
Everything’s going exactly as planned until my dads send Zach to check on me just as I’m dealing with an ex who doesn’t understand the meaning of the word no. It’s bad enough Zach still thinks of me as a child; now he also thinks I’m incapable of looking out for myself. I need to get him off my back before he finds out I’m not heading to Wyoming for summer break like everyone thinks. I’m going to Glacier National Park to learn how to rappel from helicopters...
Zach
Two years ago I wanted something I couldn't have, so I threw myself back into my job as an Army Ranger and wound up scarred in more ways than one. When the army dumps my sorry self back into the real world, it’s time to start over. I accept a summer job teaching high-risk search and rescue. On the way there, all I have to do is peek in on little Lucky Reed and make sure he’s okay.
He’s not. Someone has it out for him, and I’ll be damned if I’m going to let him get hurt on my watch. My plan is to keep him safe until he heads south for his summer job playing trail guide to tourists. Once he’s gone, I’ll be free to head to Glacier where my biggest challenge will be keeping a handful of alpine search and rescue students safe as they learn how to dangle from helicopters high above the Rocky Mountains.
It’s all fine. Until it’s not. Danger follows us to Glacier, and by the time I finally start seeing Lucky as more than the awkward teenager he used to be, I wonder if it’s too late to convince him that this scarred soldier sees him as anything but little anymore.
Two years ago I humiliated myself by declaring my love to an older man who clearly didn’t share my feelings. And that’s fine. One day Zach will come around. Meanwhile, I’ve built a life for myself in northern Montana, pursuing my college degree while working hard toward certification in high-risk alpine search and rescue on the side. And perhaps I’ve kept the danger part a secret from my two dads. After all, what they don’t know won’t hurt them...
Everything’s going exactly as planned until my dads send Zach to check on me just as I’m dealing with an ex who doesn’t understand the meaning of the word no. It’s bad enough Zach still thinks of me as a child; now he also thinks I’m incapable of looking out for myself. I need to get him off my back before he finds out I’m not heading to Wyoming for summer break like everyone thinks. I’m going to Glacier National Park to learn how to rappel from helicopters...
Zach
Two years ago I wanted something I couldn't have, so I threw myself back into my job as an Army Ranger and wound up scarred in more ways than one. When the army dumps my sorry self back into the real world, it’s time to start over. I accept a summer job teaching high-risk search and rescue. On the way there, all I have to do is peek in on little Lucky Reed and make sure he’s okay.
He’s not. Someone has it out for him, and I’ll be damned if I’m going to let him get hurt on my watch. My plan is to keep him safe until he heads south for his summer job playing trail guide to tourists. Once he’s gone, I’ll be free to head to Glacier where my biggest challenge will be keeping a handful of alpine search and rescue students safe as they learn how to dangle from helicopters high above the Rocky Mountains.
It’s all fine. Until it’s not. Danger follows us to Glacier, and by the time I finally start seeing Lucky as more than the awkward teenager he used to be, I wonder if it’s too late to convince him that this scarred soldier sees him as anything but little anymore.
11 pages, Audible Audio
First published January 20, 2020
813 people are currently reading
1074 people want to read
About the author
Lucy Lennox
93 books4,368 followersI write M/M romance with humor, heart, and heat. Check out my backlist here on GR for a selection of series and standalone or visit www.LucyLennox.com!
I only keep a small list of my very favorite books and series in my bookshelf here. I read A LOT and it's hard to keep the list updated!
I only keep a small list of my very favorite books and series in my bookshelf here. I read A LOT and it's hard to keep the list updated!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 378 reviews
January 27, 2020
But of course a crazy, old naked lady is included in this story. Lucy Lennox can't help herself. Fortunately, that's a mere blip in an otherwise relationship-focused story with major hurt/comfort overtones.
I was pleasantly surprised that while this book is not without angst (think PTSD and one MC pushing the other MC away for the majority of the story), it doesn't disintegrate into violence and drama.
I loved Lucky in the other books in the series (I don't suggest reading this one as a standalone), and I loved him even more here. He's brave but not foolhardy, kind but not a pushover.
I liked Zach too, although he isn't necessarily easy to like. Zach is closed off and keeps everyone, especially Lucky, at a distance. He is intentionally cruel (cruelty motivated by fear) and should have thanked the stars that Lucky forgave him.
Be on the lookout for some seriously hot sex. Lucky is so ready to lose his virginity, but only with Zach, always with Zach.
I wish the suspense/mystery plot hadn't been dropped so abruptly. It felt like a throwaway. The rescue toward the end was exciting, though.
Some of the writing was a little clunky, particularly at the beginning, but I wasn't too bothered by it.
Above and Beyond was a super fast read for me. I got completely engrossed in the story and enjoyed seeing the MCs from the other books again, especially Oz and his cute but ugly doggo (the third book, featuring Oz and Jake remains my favorite).
I can't wait for Cal's story. I'm hoping he's next.
I was pleasantly surprised that while this book is not without angst (think PTSD and one MC pushing the other MC away for the majority of the story), it doesn't disintegrate into violence and drama.
I loved Lucky in the other books in the series (I don't suggest reading this one as a standalone), and I loved him even more here. He's brave but not foolhardy, kind but not a pushover.
I liked Zach too, although he isn't necessarily easy to like. Zach is closed off and keeps everyone, especially Lucky, at a distance. He is intentionally cruel (cruelty motivated by fear) and should have thanked the stars that Lucky forgave him.
Be on the lookout for some seriously hot sex. Lucky is so ready to lose his virginity, but only with Zach, always with Zach.
I wish the suspense/mystery plot hadn't been dropped so abruptly. It felt like a throwaway. The rescue toward the end was exciting, though.
Some of the writing was a little clunky, particularly at the beginning, but I wasn't too bothered by it.
Above and Beyond was a super fast read for me. I got completely engrossed in the story and enjoyed seeing the MCs from the other books again, especially Oz and his cute but ugly doggo (the third book, featuring Oz and Jake remains my favorite).
I can't wait for Cal's story. I'm hoping he's next.
January 20, 2020
It has been some time, but I finally got my Sloane Kennedy/Lucy Lennox fix. This is the fourth book in the Twist of Fate series and this time we get "Lucky's story. And those of you who have been reading all the books in the series, know exactly who Lucky is. Those of you that haven't...please go back and read "Lost & Found", because things will be so much clearer if you do.
Lucky, who happens to be Xander and Bennett's son has had a big crush on Zach, for as long as he remembers. Zach, who is Jake's brother (book 3), has always known about Lucky's crush, but being much older than Lucky, he has tried to keep his distance. Even going as far as breaking an 18-year-old Lucky's heart...
But young guys grow up too, and so what is a man to do when he comes face to face with the boy who used to crush on him, only to find out, that he isn't a boy anymore...but a beautiful young man. A young man who still harbors the same feelings, even though he doesn't want to in the beginning.
I have to admit that Zach did get on my nerves at times. I could understand his demons and his doubts, but I really wanted him to snap out of it. Also ...being older doesn't always mean you know better as well.
For those of you who are a fan of "hurt/comfort", there is plenty to go around. Both men have tons of issues (especially Zack) that they need to overcome.
This book isn't a sweet and fluffy read. It is pretty emotional and painful at times. But we all know how sweet that hurt/comfort can be. And even though they had a long way to go...at least they got there...together.
An ARC was provided to
in exchange for an honest review
March 7, 2020
2 disappointing-stars!! 😥 This just never took off for me. Having read the previous books in the series, I was certainly expecting angst, suspense and thrill.. but was not expecting such an unlikable MC😳. Initially I had a little sympathy for him, but as the book progressed my dislike for him grew.. I just couldn’t fathom why anyone, especially a bright guy like Lucky would give Zach so many chances. And despite all his past abuses, PTSD and anxiety my empathy for Zach just dried up because of his whiney me-me-me-me behavior. I almost quit so many times, but somehow I ventured on...😱😰. The ending was at least good.. but not at all believable.. I don’t think Zach will stay (he will run when the honeymoon period ends) and honestly I think Lucky deserves someone more mature.. and not someone who will always play the victim.. whiney much?!!
So no, I don’t recommend reading this if you liked the previous books. 🙄It misses the mark completely. I would advice the authors not to continue this series.., I think it’s done. 😔😓
So no, I don’t recommend reading this if you liked the previous books. 🙄It misses the mark completely. I would advice the authors not to continue this series.., I think it’s done. 😔😓
February 11, 2020
Older Zach and younger Lucky, find their way home....
I’ve read nearly every book from Sloan’s Kennedy and Lucy Lennox, and I’ll never have enough. This is fantastic as usual.
Zach, about 35, is a wounded warrior, teaching SAR (Search and Rescue) training in Glacier Park in Montana.
Lucky, 20, has 1 yr. of college for his degree, is a certified EMT, and going for his SAR certification. Both men have always wanted to help people, loved the adrenaline rush, and the satisfaction of saving lives.
Each man reached their need for taking care of those in need, from the very different pasts that shaped them, pasts that were traumatic and difficult. These two are perfect together, if only Zach could let go and absorb the love, virgin Lucky wants to give.
Lucky has wanted Zach, his brother’s friend, for years. Zach needs Lucky, but the internal war for love is hard fought.
Our guy’s sex is explosive, rough, raw and deeply moving. Tough men, giving 110% with every kiss, every position, and every powerful emotion.
Lucky is ecstatic to get his “firsts” with Zach.
Their struggles are so real, with Zach’s PTSD effects, his nightmares, and Lucky’s own fears of being abandoned.
You’ll be gripped by their talks, stories, extreme sexy times, and the rescue adventures we watch; the last one is personal.
I highly recommend this book.
Enjoy !
=======
I’ve read nearly every book from Sloan’s Kennedy and Lucy Lennox, and I’ll never have enough. This is fantastic as usual.
Zach, about 35, is a wounded warrior, teaching SAR (Search and Rescue) training in Glacier Park in Montana.
Lucky, 20, has 1 yr. of college for his degree, is a certified EMT, and going for his SAR certification. Both men have always wanted to help people, loved the adrenaline rush, and the satisfaction of saving lives.
Each man reached their need for taking care of those in need, from the very different pasts that shaped them, pasts that were traumatic and difficult. These two are perfect together, if only Zach could let go and absorb the love, virgin Lucky wants to give.
Lucky has wanted Zach, his brother’s friend, for years. Zach needs Lucky, but the internal war for love is hard fought.
Our guy’s sex is explosive, rough, raw and deeply moving. Tough men, giving 110% with every kiss, every position, and every powerful emotion.
Lucky is ecstatic to get his “firsts” with Zach.
Their struggles are so real, with Zach’s PTSD effects, his nightmares, and Lucky’s own fears of being abandoned.
You’ll be gripped by their talks, stories, extreme sexy times, and the rescue adventures we watch; the last one is personal.
I highly recommend this book.
Enjoy !
=======
January 20, 2020
This is another intense yet heart warming romance... Alpha male with emotional issues and vulnerable cutie pining for his “not available “ love. Yes there’s drama, angst and high risk monuments, but always something lovely to look forward to ❤️
May 23, 2020
The heart wants what the heart wants...
2.75 stars
The push/pull was too much. Can't really see what Lucky saw in Zach. It gave me the feeling of a puppy constantly being kicked. Just sad.
2.75 stars
The push/pull was too much. Can't really see what Lucky saw in Zach. It gave me the feeling of a puppy constantly being kicked. Just sad.
February 2, 2020
Good storytelling but it was a little bit long. And I got frustrated with Zach because DUDE let`s make up your mind I don`t want to read every second page about your inner struggle and self hate...
dnf
March 7, 2020Dnf @ 31%
June 28, 2022
2.5 stars
Well… Zach was definitely not worthy of Lucky.. Jesus haha didn’t get his head out of his ass until about 90% if not later.. like 95%…
Also there were lots of different ways that weird stalker thing could have gone for Lucky.. and it was done in an anticlimactic way.
Overall had lots of promise but the execution left a lot to be desired. Luckily I went in with low expectations so I didn’t hate it… also does Calvin have a book…..?
Well… Zach was definitely not worthy of Lucky.. Jesus haha didn’t get his head out of his ass until about 90% if not later.. like 95%…
Also there were lots of different ways that weird stalker thing could have gone for Lucky.. and it was done in an anticlimactic way.
Overall had lots of promise but the execution left a lot to be desired. Luckily I went in with low expectations so I didn’t hate it… also does Calvin have a book…..?
November 9, 2023
Love ❤️
This series has my heart.
I loved that we got to read Lucky's story in this one.
We first met Lucky in the first book when he was just 15. We then had him at 16 and 17 in the 2nd and 3rd books. Finally, at 20, we get to know him so much better.
This was the story of Lucky and Zach (who we met in book 3).
Hurt/comfort, age-gap, romance, adventure, action, danger, grumpy/sunshine, found family, sex, drama, and hea.
It was wonderful to get all of our favourite characters together again.
Seriously, I couldn't love this series more. I can't even put my finger on why I love it so much, it's just everything. 🙂🙂🙂
This series has my heart.
I loved that we got to read Lucky's story in this one.
We first met Lucky in the first book when he was just 15. We then had him at 16 and 17 in the 2nd and 3rd books. Finally, at 20, we get to know him so much better.
This was the story of Lucky and Zach (who we met in book 3).
Hurt/comfort, age-gap, romance, adventure, action, danger, grumpy/sunshine, found family, sex, drama, and hea.
It was wonderful to get all of our favourite characters together again.
Seriously, I couldn't love this series more. I can't even put my finger on why I love it so much, it's just everything. 🙂🙂🙂
January 23, 2020
DNF. What happened here?
This book was a hot mess of nonsense with a serious age issue. I don't care about the age gap, but I do care that between the last book and this one the math seems to be off.
Also, Lucky is such a doormat for Zach who treats him like shit. In my opinion, a relationship built on this type of unrequited love won't last.
Also, the plot was sloppy with weird sentence structures. Was there no beta readers who could say perhaps one more run through?
And the sad side plot of the student who has her spot taken 😒😒😒.
Don't waste your time with this cluster fu*k.
This book was a hot mess of nonsense with a serious age issue. I don't care about the age gap, but I do care that between the last book and this one the math seems to be off.
Also, Lucky is such a doormat for Zach who treats him like shit. In my opinion, a relationship built on this type of unrequited love won't last.
Also, the plot was sloppy with weird sentence structures. Was there no beta readers who could say perhaps one more run through?
And the sad side plot of the student who has her spot taken 😒😒😒.
Don't waste your time with this cluster fu*k.
April 27, 2021
I’m so happy we finally Lucky’s story. It feels like forever since the first book and Lucky is a young teen. Now five years later, we see Lucky come into adulthood and be taken seriously. The first part of the book was a little confusing with the timeline between past and present day, but it turned out perfect and all made sense in the end.
January 21, 2020
I read book 3 not so long ago so I remembered how Lucky & Zack met... The timeline in this one was all off and it just bothered me!
Lucky wasn't 15 when he met Zack. He was 17, almost 18.
I couldn't passed this detail.
I also had the same problem here that I had with book 1. I just could tell when it was LL writing and SK writing and I don't really enjoy LL writing...
All in All, the story was okay but I couldn't get into it.
I really like Sloane Kennedy's books but this series is just 50/50 for me... Lucy Lennox's style is really not my thing
Lucky wasn't 15 when he met Zack. He was 17, almost 18.
I couldn't passed this detail.
I also had the same problem here that I had with book 1. I just could tell when it was LL writing and SK writing and I don't really enjoy LL writing...
All in All, the story was okay but I couldn't get into it.
I really like Sloane Kennedy's books but this series is just 50/50 for me... Lucy Lennox's style is really not my thing
February 19, 2020
Audiobook reviewNarration: 4,5 stars
Story: 3 stars
It’s been a while since the last book in this series. This time we follow Lucky, the foster kid we meet in the first book (though you don’t have to have read any of the previous ones follow this one).
Lucky is in college in northern Montana, busy living his life. But having not come home to his family for more than the major holidays, his fathers ask their friend Zach to check up on Lucky. Something Zach is very reluctant to do considering the heat smouldering between them two years ago. Fate kept throwing them together, and it’s not long the heat between them consumes them both.
I was hooked by this book by the start. I was fascinated by both Lucky and Zach. Zach just a little bit more, his issues spoke to me, touched me. But what really surprised me was that this shine didn’t last that long for me. When we’ve reached the middle of the book I was fed up with all things Zach and his woe me personality. It wasn’t about his injuries, mental or otherwise, those I didn’t mind, they added to who he was, to his history. However, past hurts is not a green card for treating others badly, and he really treated Lucky badly. Almost to the point where I wanted Lucky to find someone else.
There was one other thing that didn’t make sense to me and that was the vandalism. Well, the vandalism made sense (well in romance novels), but the reactions to it didn’t. There were mentions of past notes, some spray-paint and I can maybe understand ignoring that. But when the vandalism turns dangerous and possibly even life threatening? How was I the only one worried about it? Lucky and Zach was too busy with their relationship drama to really worry or think about it. It didn’t make sense to me.
Above and Beyond was beautifully performed by Michael Dean. There’s one particular scene early in the book that stuck with me, can’t really explain as it didn’t really have a major impact on the story. But drunk Lucky was hilarious and Dean really captured the feel of the bar, the swaying Lucky and the slurred speech – and faulty logic. It was fun and made me smile. In general terms, this is also true. Dean captures the moments and the feelings in them. He made you balance on that ledge, run from the fire and feel the longing that was so strong between Lucky and Zack.
I do believe me not loving this book is a classic case of the classic line of “It’s not you, it’s me”. Looking around, most readers and listeners have loved the story of these guys. So if you are a fan of this series and these authors and narrator ignore me and enjoy the story to the fullest.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the authors in exchange for an honest review
January 25, 2020
3.75 stars
Meh not a bad read but got kinda bored. I love a good age gap romance and glad I gave this a chance.
Review soon.
Meh not a bad read but got kinda bored. I love a good age gap romance and glad I gave this a chance.
Review soon.
January 20, 2020
#SpoilerWarrior
I was really excited for this book, and have been since the first time that Zach entered the picture.
But that’s the thing..., I’m 98% positive that Zach entered the picture in book three, when Lucky was 17. Because Lucky was 15 in book 1, where he was into Calvin.
I just feel really disappointed that a book that I know people waited for forever ended up being so inconsistent - it really took away from the story for me.
I was really excited for this book, and have been since the first time that Zach entered the picture.
But that’s the thing..., I’m 98% positive that Zach entered the picture in book three, when Lucky was 17. Because Lucky was 15 in book 1, where he was into Calvin.
I just feel really disappointed that a book that I know people waited for forever ended up being so inconsistent - it really took away from the story for me.
June 5, 2021
I have around 50 pages left of this story and honestly I can't finish it. At 85 percent read, you'd think I could power through it, but I won't because I absolutely can't read one more negative thought from Zach.
He drives me crazy. Between treating Lucky like crap and his push- pull relationship that they share, I do not like him, nor do I think he deserves the sweet and apparently very much a doormat, Lucky. I wish Lucky would kick him to the curb because in choosing Zach, his personal life will be one big mess of angst, thanks to the drama queen Zach.
Good luck, Lucky. You're going to need it.
I normally don't rate books I don't finish, but since I hung in there for three hundred pages, I figured I read enough to be able to rate it.
After reading many of my friends glowing reviews on it, apparently I stand alone in hating Zach so much, so if you are interested in reading it, I say go for it. Both authors are amazing at what they do, but for me, this did not work at all.
He drives me crazy. Between treating Lucky like crap and his push- pull relationship that they share, I do not like him, nor do I think he deserves the sweet and apparently very much a doormat, Lucky. I wish Lucky would kick him to the curb because in choosing Zach, his personal life will be one big mess of angst, thanks to the drama queen Zach.
Good luck, Lucky. You're going to need it.
I normally don't rate books I don't finish, but since I hung in there for three hundred pages, I figured I read enough to be able to rate it.
After reading many of my friends glowing reviews on it, apparently I stand alone in hating Zach so much, so if you are interested in reading it, I say go for it. Both authors are amazing at what they do, but for me, this did not work at all.
January 24, 2020
This book
This book reminded me of why I fell in love with these authors. It had everything I love. The writing was perfection. It drew me in, and held me tight all the way until the last page. It was emotional, had angst, some drippings of suspense, hawt curl your toes smexy times, and love surrounded it all. I’m a sucker for a hurt alpha, and a virginal man who knows exactly what he wants.
The banter was perfection, didn’t go overboard, the story was amazing. The side characters kept me entertained, and the HEA swoon. My only and I only have one complaint, was The Who did it answer. I thought that was a quick cop out.
Ugh please give me more of this type of story. I crave this. This is how you start a new year.
This book reminded me of why I fell in love with these authors. It had everything I love. The writing was perfection. It drew me in, and held me tight all the way until the last page. It was emotional, had angst, some drippings of suspense, hawt curl your toes smexy times, and love surrounded it all. I’m a sucker for a hurt alpha, and a virginal man who knows exactly what he wants.
The banter was perfection, didn’t go overboard, the story was amazing. The side characters kept me entertained, and the HEA swoon. My only and I only have one complaint, was The Who did it answer. I thought that was a quick cop out.
Ugh please give me more of this type of story. I crave this. This is how you start a new year.
February 19, 2020
Didn’t like Zach
If you thought Jake was a jerk, Zach is 100% times worse. His hot and cold mood swings were not just frustrating, but really took an emotional toll on Lucky. I love angst, but this felt like Lucky was an emotional yo-yo being yanked and smashed by Zach whenever it suited him. Lucky’s thoughts and POV made me want to cuddle him and hug him close. Zach’s POV made me want to punch the selfish man in the face. Zach showed very little emotional attachment to Lucky other than being irrationally jealous of others (which is a popular trope and I can usually just roll my eyes at it, but this time it just made me clench my teeth). Lucky deserved so much better than this jerk yanking at his heartstrings. I’m sad this is the “romance” Lucky. It was only the last page or two at the very end of this book that I felt that Lucky and Zach had any sort of connection that could make their debacle of a “relationship” enjoyable to read.
I think I disliked this one so much because Zach reminded me of Ash’s ex - Billy - so much. It’s similar to what I imagine Billy would make Ash go through when their relationship began to morph into abuse. I feel like this could have been a good story. I liked the concept of the toughened and jaded Army Ranger and a gentle and strong college kid. But Zach needed to have been re-written. I was excited for Zach and from what I read about him in the last book, I thought he was going to be cool. I was sorely disappointed.
The best couple in this series were definitely Aiden and Ash in book 2. They were the first couple I read about before going back to read the rest. They’re probably on the only couple I really loved and recommend from the series.
If you thought Jake was a jerk, Zach is 100% times worse. His hot and cold mood swings were not just frustrating, but really took an emotional toll on Lucky. I love angst, but this felt like Lucky was an emotional yo-yo being yanked and smashed by Zach whenever it suited him. Lucky’s thoughts and POV made me want to cuddle him and hug him close. Zach’s POV made me want to punch the selfish man in the face. Zach showed very little emotional attachment to Lucky other than being irrationally jealous of others (which is a popular trope and I can usually just roll my eyes at it, but this time it just made me clench my teeth). Lucky deserved so much better than this jerk yanking at his heartstrings. I’m sad this is the “romance” Lucky. It was only the last page or two at the very end of this book that I felt that Lucky and Zach had any sort of connection that could make their debacle of a “relationship” enjoyable to read.
I think I disliked this one so much because Zach reminded me of Ash’s ex - Billy - so much. It’s similar to what I imagine Billy would make Ash go through when their relationship began to morph into abuse. I feel like this could have been a good story. I liked the concept of the toughened and jaded Army Ranger and a gentle and strong college kid. But Zach needed to have been re-written. I was excited for Zach and from what I read about him in the last book, I thought he was going to be cool. I was sorely disappointed.
The best couple in this series were definitely Aiden and Ash in book 2. They were the first couple I read about before going back to read the rest. They’re probably on the only couple I really loved and recommend from the series.
January 21, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
I really like the Twist of Fate series and these characters and Lucky has been around since the beginning as a teen. Homeless and living on the streets, he met Bennett and Xander who eventually adopted him. Lucky is now in college and it was great to see him moving on with his life and going after the career he wants. He has never forgotten Zach and always has felt that one day would be their day. He never expects Zach to show up at college and he further doesn’t expect the man to be his search and rescue instructor.
It is not an easy road for these guys. There is no big reunion when Zach realizes that Lucky is grown up as Zach fights the attraction and his feelings every single step of the way. But the chemistry between them is so far off the charts and the payoff was completely worth it in the end. Zach has many issues to overcome. He has PTSD and physical and emotional scars from more than just his last tour. He keeps secrets from everyone regarding his time in the military and the secrets keep piling up as he can barely admit to himself how much he wants everything with Lucky.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
4 stars
I really like the Twist of Fate series and these characters and Lucky has been around since the beginning as a teen. Homeless and living on the streets, he met Bennett and Xander who eventually adopted him. Lucky is now in college and it was great to see him moving on with his life and going after the career he wants. He has never forgotten Zach and always has felt that one day would be their day. He never expects Zach to show up at college and he further doesn’t expect the man to be his search and rescue instructor.
It is not an easy road for these guys. There is no big reunion when Zach realizes that Lucky is grown up as Zach fights the attraction and his feelings every single step of the way. But the chemistry between them is so far off the charts and the payoff was completely worth it in the end. Zach has many issues to overcome. He has PTSD and physical and emotional scars from more than just his last tour. He keeps secrets from everyone regarding his time in the military and the secrets keep piling up as he can barely admit to himself how much he wants everything with Lucky.
Read Michelle's review in its entirety here.
January 22, 2020
I came for the age gap and dad’s friend aspect and left completely in love with these two men and their love story.
Lucky has known one thing since he was a teenager — he wanted Zach and one day he’d have him. No amount of rejection was enough to make him call quits on wanting to pursue him. Zach, on the other hand, has spent the same amount of time trying his best to ignore what he feels for his brother’s best friend’s child.
There was quite a bit of things Zach needed to work out in order for him to trust Lucky with his heart. Which resulted in an exhausting push and pull between them that was kinda exhausting — getting to their eventual hea took A LOT of work and was a constant rollercoaster but it made it that much more sweeter.
So much happens in such a short span of time during this book that it was almost hard to keep up with but I hung on for the ride and I’m glad I did. There were a few unresolved issues that I’m hoping get addressed in a future book though.
I recommend Lucky and Zach’s story to whoever likes stubborn men who believe that sometimes rules are meant to be broken.
Lucky has known one thing since he was a teenager — he wanted Zach and one day he’d have him. No amount of rejection was enough to make him call quits on wanting to pursue him. Zach, on the other hand, has spent the same amount of time trying his best to ignore what he feels for his brother’s best friend’s child.
There was quite a bit of things Zach needed to work out in order for him to trust Lucky with his heart. Which resulted in an exhausting push and pull between them that was kinda exhausting — getting to their eventual hea took A LOT of work and was a constant rollercoaster but it made it that much more sweeter.
So much happens in such a short span of time during this book that it was almost hard to keep up with but I hung on for the ride and I’m glad I did. There were a few unresolved issues that I’m hoping get addressed in a future book though.
I recommend Lucky and Zach’s story to whoever likes stubborn men who believe that sometimes rules are meant to be broken.
October 29, 2021
Great story with edge of your seat action and lots of lurve...
January 27, 2020
Fast read. Hot romance, very hot sex scenes with an age gap and good hurt/comfort theme. I'm not a big fan of one MC's constantly pushing away another so that for me wasn't a win. Besides that I really enjoyed this one. It's fast paced, not overly fantastically dramatic, and like I said before, super HOT. I really liked it.
February 16, 2020
2.75
I didn't write something immediately after finishing reading it and now I forgot most of it.
This should indicate that it wasn't all that memorable.
I liked the story fine, but ultimatley it was too bland, not unique, similar to so many others, it didn't stand out. Like I said, unmemorable.
I don't remember details about the writing or characters, just that something annoyed me, but I don't recall what.
I didn't write something immediately after finishing reading it and now I forgot most of it.
This should indicate that it wasn't all that memorable.
I liked the story fine, but ultimatley it was too bland, not unique, similar to so many others, it didn't stand out. Like I said, unmemorable.
I don't remember details about the writing or characters, just that something annoyed me, but I don't recall what.
May 17, 2021
Nayeli - per RFS
.
Due personaggi potenti e un dramma notevole nascosto dietro le loro storie.
Zach e Lucky si amano da tantissimo tempo, da quando Lucky era minorenne. Proprio questo, oltre al fatto che Zach è il fratello del suo miglior amico, l’hanno spinto a tenerlo a distanza arrivando anche a rifiutarlo in modo brutale. Zach, inoltre, non si è mai permesso di cedere ai sentimenti perché è consapevole di avere un rapporto con il sesso e con l’amore deviato, sbagliato, o comunque inadatto a questo ragazzo troppo inesperto che lui vede ancora come un ragazzino, nonostante siano passati gli anni.
" Lo avevo rincorso senza sosta, ma non mi era mai passato per la testa che magari quello che lui desiderava era rincorrere. Ma sapevo che non era sufficiente. Se volevo una chance con Zach, avrei dovuto dargli quella piccola spinta in più. "
A 20 anni Lucky non ha mai avuto una storia seria perché è da sempre innamorato di Zach. Nonostante l’abbia allontanato ogni volta facendogli capire che persone come lui non facessero al caso suo, Lucky non è mai riuscito a lasciarsi andare con nessuno, come se sentisse che nessun altro era giusto per lui come lo sarebbe stato Zach.
Dopo che Zach, quando era appena maggiorenne, aveva distrutto la sua autostima schernendolo, Lucky ha lavorato molto per ricostruirsi una identità e una sicurezza in se stesso, iniziando a vivere la vita come una sfida e sempre alla ricerca di adrenalina, il tutto, però, all’insaputa dei due padri iperprotettivi.
" Mi passò il pollice lungo il profilo del mento e risalì fino alla guancia. Non mi preoccupavo più che la mia erezione fosse impossibile da nascondere. L’unica cosa che bramavo era che l’uomo si chinasse e prendesse ciò che era suo.
Che era sempre stato suo.
E che lo sarebbe stato per sempre."
Diversi anni dopo, reduce da varie missioni militari all’estero, ritroviamo Zach ammaccato, ferito psicologicamente, disturbato. Più fragile del solito, non riesce più a contenersi entro i confini dell’intoccabilità, dell’amicizia platonica e fraterna, e lascia che tutto esploda in un modo più o meno violento: il gran senso di protezione che Zach sente verso Lucky e la reciproca attrazione trattenuta da anni esplodono tutte insieme, trascinando le loro vite e le loro sicurezze.
" Ci separavano appena due metri. Sarebbe stato così facile ridurre la distanza tra di noi e prenderlo come bramavo. Me lo avrebbe lasciato fare. Ne ero certo. Malgrado ciò che gli avevo fatto, se avessi pronunciato il suo nome in un certo modo o lo avessi sfiorato con le più dolci delle carezze, sarebbe stato mio.
Per la notte o per tutto il tempo che desideravo."
Una storia che funziona, che tiene agganciati tantissimo grazie a personaggi molto intensi, passionali, in crescita e desiderosi di conoscersi a vicenda, oltre ai sogni accumulati nel tempo, e un rapporto decisamente romantico frutto di un legame che va avanti da anni e che sentono entrambi come unico e solo. I passati personali difficili danno vita a questioni irrisolte che devono essere affrontate per trovare la sicurezza di lasciarsi andare a un sentimento così forte.
" Non tentò di fermarmi intanto che indossavo la camicia scrollando le spalle e non si mosse quando gli passai accanto sfiorandolo per andare a prendere il cellulare dal letto. Sentivo i piedi come dei piombi mentre infilavo le scarpe e mi facevo strada verso la porta. Pensai a qualcosa da dirgli, ma mi mancavano le parole. Desideravo rimanere, e desideravo andarmene. Allora decisi per quello che lui voleva e oltrepassai la soglia, senza guardarmi indietro.
Sebbene fosse tutto ciò che desiderassi."
Ma così come ci sono scricchiolii nella traduzione, insieme a piccoli refusi, allo stesso modo ho trovato scricchiolii nelle forzature dei tira e molla e nei cambiamenti d’umore ambigui di Zach che, pur non essendo completamente incoerenti con la sua caratterizzazione, compaiono talmente all’improvviso rispetto alle situazioni che sembra evidente l’intento di aggiungere punti di svolta là dove le cose sembrano andare troppo bene. Tutti i tira e molla hanno uno scopo narrativo preciso per lo sviluppo del personaggio e del rapporto di coppia, tuttavia vengono introdotti come colpi di scena che rimangono troppo a sorpresa rispetto a un comportamento logico e sensato.
A parte questo, credo che la storia sia davvero intensa ed emozionante e che i personaggi siano del tutto azzeccati. La loro sfaccettatura psicologica è piena e rappresentata da comportamenti coinvolgenti e intensi, caratterizzati da sensibilità, tatto e dolcezza.
Gli incontri amorosi sono una cosa strepitosa, in particolare la loro prima volta, caratterizzata da una dose di cura, attenzione, sensibilità estrema. Le scene sono molto dettagliate, ma allo stesso tempo anche romantiche e delicate.
" Le labbra di Zach si posarono di nuovo sulle mie. Mi baciò piano, quasi con amore. Spostò la mano con cui si sosteneva alla parete e la fece scivolare verso il basso, fino a trovare la mia mano. Intrecciò le nostre dita e sollevò le nostre mani unite, poi le spinse entrambe di nuovo contro il muro. Con il pollice mi accarezzava alla base del mio, proprio come la sua bocca lambiva la mia lingua. […] Avrei voluto comprendere il significato di tutto ciò, ma ebbi il buon senso di non domandarglielo. E invece di tormentarmi troppo per tutte le diverse possibili ragioni per le quali si trovava lì con me, mi concentrai solo su quel piccolo dettaglio.
Lui. È. Qui."
Il giudizio finale risente anche di un altro aspetto poco convincente per me. Per vari motivi non amo particolarmente quando tutti i personaggi di un MM sono omosessuali, come una nicchia anomala della società reale, anche perché troppo spesso, nel concentrarsi sulla caratterizzazione dei protagonisti, si delineano quelli secondari solo con qualche tratto affrettato, finendo per dipingerli in modo stereotipato secondo cliché poco fantasiosi. Ho percepito questo effetto anche in questo romanzo, sia nelle figure genitoriali che nelle amiche lesbiche.
Finale all’americana, molto tradizionale, ma del resto non possiamo pretendere tutto da un romanzo che già ha dato moltissimo.
" Gridai mentre luce e buio si mescolavano dietro le mie palpebre chiuse e qualcosa esplose nel profondo del mio intimo. La spirale che si era avvolta sempre di più attorno a me e le cui spire erano divenute sempre più tese si spezzò, dopodiché ebbi l’impressione di cadere e di risalire, e di cadere ancora, ancora e ancora. Affondai le dita nella schiena di Zach mentre cavalcavo le ondate di piacere che mi consumavano."
.
Due personaggi potenti e un dramma notevole nascosto dietro le loro storie.
Zach e Lucky si amano da tantissimo tempo, da quando Lucky era minorenne. Proprio questo, oltre al fatto che Zach è il fratello del suo miglior amico, l’hanno spinto a tenerlo a distanza arrivando anche a rifiutarlo in modo brutale. Zach, inoltre, non si è mai permesso di cedere ai sentimenti perché è consapevole di avere un rapporto con il sesso e con l’amore deviato, sbagliato, o comunque inadatto a questo ragazzo troppo inesperto che lui vede ancora come un ragazzino, nonostante siano passati gli anni.
" Lo avevo rincorso senza sosta, ma non mi era mai passato per la testa che magari quello che lui desiderava era rincorrere. Ma sapevo che non era sufficiente. Se volevo una chance con Zach, avrei dovuto dargli quella piccola spinta in più. "
A 20 anni Lucky non ha mai avuto una storia seria perché è da sempre innamorato di Zach. Nonostante l’abbia allontanato ogni volta facendogli capire che persone come lui non facessero al caso suo, Lucky non è mai riuscito a lasciarsi andare con nessuno, come se sentisse che nessun altro era giusto per lui come lo sarebbe stato Zach.
Dopo che Zach, quando era appena maggiorenne, aveva distrutto la sua autostima schernendolo, Lucky ha lavorato molto per ricostruirsi una identità e una sicurezza in se stesso, iniziando a vivere la vita come una sfida e sempre alla ricerca di adrenalina, il tutto, però, all’insaputa dei due padri iperprotettivi.
" Mi passò il pollice lungo il profilo del mento e risalì fino alla guancia. Non mi preoccupavo più che la mia erezione fosse impossibile da nascondere. L’unica cosa che bramavo era che l’uomo si chinasse e prendesse ciò che era suo.
Che era sempre stato suo.
E che lo sarebbe stato per sempre."
Diversi anni dopo, reduce da varie missioni militari all’estero, ritroviamo Zach ammaccato, ferito psicologicamente, disturbato. Più fragile del solito, non riesce più a contenersi entro i confini dell’intoccabilità, dell’amicizia platonica e fraterna, e lascia che tutto esploda in un modo più o meno violento: il gran senso di protezione che Zach sente verso Lucky e la reciproca attrazione trattenuta da anni esplodono tutte insieme, trascinando le loro vite e le loro sicurezze.
" Ci separavano appena due metri. Sarebbe stato così facile ridurre la distanza tra di noi e prenderlo come bramavo. Me lo avrebbe lasciato fare. Ne ero certo. Malgrado ciò che gli avevo fatto, se avessi pronunciato il suo nome in un certo modo o lo avessi sfiorato con le più dolci delle carezze, sarebbe stato mio.
Per la notte o per tutto il tempo che desideravo."
Una storia che funziona, che tiene agganciati tantissimo grazie a personaggi molto intensi, passionali, in crescita e desiderosi di conoscersi a vicenda, oltre ai sogni accumulati nel tempo, e un rapporto decisamente romantico frutto di un legame che va avanti da anni e che sentono entrambi come unico e solo. I passati personali difficili danno vita a questioni irrisolte che devono essere affrontate per trovare la sicurezza di lasciarsi andare a un sentimento così forte.
" Non tentò di fermarmi intanto che indossavo la camicia scrollando le spalle e non si mosse quando gli passai accanto sfiorandolo per andare a prendere il cellulare dal letto. Sentivo i piedi come dei piombi mentre infilavo le scarpe e mi facevo strada verso la porta. Pensai a qualcosa da dirgli, ma mi mancavano le parole. Desideravo rimanere, e desideravo andarmene. Allora decisi per quello che lui voleva e oltrepassai la soglia, senza guardarmi indietro.
Sebbene fosse tutto ciò che desiderassi."
Ma così come ci sono scricchiolii nella traduzione, insieme a piccoli refusi, allo stesso modo ho trovato scricchiolii nelle forzature dei tira e molla e nei cambiamenti d’umore ambigui di Zach che, pur non essendo completamente incoerenti con la sua caratterizzazione, compaiono talmente all’improvviso rispetto alle situazioni che sembra evidente l’intento di aggiungere punti di svolta là dove le cose sembrano andare troppo bene. Tutti i tira e molla hanno uno scopo narrativo preciso per lo sviluppo del personaggio e del rapporto di coppia, tuttavia vengono introdotti come colpi di scena che rimangono troppo a sorpresa rispetto a un comportamento logico e sensato.
A parte questo, credo che la storia sia davvero intensa ed emozionante e che i personaggi siano del tutto azzeccati. La loro sfaccettatura psicologica è piena e rappresentata da comportamenti coinvolgenti e intensi, caratterizzati da sensibilità, tatto e dolcezza.
Gli incontri amorosi sono una cosa strepitosa, in particolare la loro prima volta, caratterizzata da una dose di cura, attenzione, sensibilità estrema. Le scene sono molto dettagliate, ma allo stesso tempo anche romantiche e delicate.
" Le labbra di Zach si posarono di nuovo sulle mie. Mi baciò piano, quasi con amore. Spostò la mano con cui si sosteneva alla parete e la fece scivolare verso il basso, fino a trovare la mia mano. Intrecciò le nostre dita e sollevò le nostre mani unite, poi le spinse entrambe di nuovo contro il muro. Con il pollice mi accarezzava alla base del mio, proprio come la sua bocca lambiva la mia lingua. […] Avrei voluto comprendere il significato di tutto ciò, ma ebbi il buon senso di non domandarglielo. E invece di tormentarmi troppo per tutte le diverse possibili ragioni per le quali si trovava lì con me, mi concentrai solo su quel piccolo dettaglio.
Lui. È. Qui."
Il giudizio finale risente anche di un altro aspetto poco convincente per me. Per vari motivi non amo particolarmente quando tutti i personaggi di un MM sono omosessuali, come una nicchia anomala della società reale, anche perché troppo spesso, nel concentrarsi sulla caratterizzazione dei protagonisti, si delineano quelli secondari solo con qualche tratto affrettato, finendo per dipingerli in modo stereotipato secondo cliché poco fantasiosi. Ho percepito questo effetto anche in questo romanzo, sia nelle figure genitoriali che nelle amiche lesbiche.
Finale all’americana, molto tradizionale, ma del resto non possiamo pretendere tutto da un romanzo che già ha dato moltissimo.
" Gridai mentre luce e buio si mescolavano dietro le mie palpebre chiuse e qualcosa esplose nel profondo del mio intimo. La spirale che si era avvolta sempre di più attorno a me e le cui spire erano divenute sempre più tese si spezzò, dopodiché ebbi l’impressione di cadere e di risalire, e di cadere ancora, ancora e ancora. Affondai le dita nella schiena di Zach mentre cavalcavo le ondate di piacere che mi consumavano."
January 22, 2020
Angsty but perfect
This book ripped my heart out multiple times. It felt like I’d been put through the wringer by the time I got to the end.
This book is very well written and it felt so real.
Zach is a very broken man and love sometimes is not enough. You need a little luck.
Lucky definitely deserved his HEA. It was hard fought! I loved the book and hopefully we get more in this series because I’m not ready for it to end.
This book ripped my heart out multiple times. It felt like I’d been put through the wringer by the time I got to the end.
This book is very well written and it felt so real.
Zach is a very broken man and love sometimes is not enough. You need a little luck.
Lucky definitely deserved his HEA. It was hard fought! I loved the book and hopefully we get more in this series because I’m not ready for it to end.
January 23, 2020
This was a good hurt/comfort book but Safe and Sound is still my favorite of the series. There was a LOT of push/pull in this one but it was an integral part of the hurt/comfort.
Zach was kind of a dick but for some reason Lucky loved him anyway.
It was nice to get a hint of all the other couples from the other books but I wonder if there's going to be one about Calvin because he was sort of left hanging.
Zach was kind of a dick but for some reason Lucky loved him anyway.
It was nice to get a hint of all the other couples from the other books but I wonder if there's going to be one about Calvin because he was sort of left hanging.
January 20, 2020
Loved it!
January 21, 2020
I adore Lucky to pieces. His resilience, pure, incredible FORGIVING heart. But man...he didn't make Zach work for it at all. He came across as a pushover and at times a doormat. While Zach was a jerk and a coward. Ugh. I wanted to root for this couple so bad but there were things that bothered me and taint the story early on. .
Honestly, I am so disappointed in Zach's character. I expected more from him. I understand he had a bad past. Certainly that horrid love affair, his PTSD contributed into the broken man that Lucky loves regardless. And continues laying his heart out for time and time again. But at the same time, it's like "Lucky, buddy. Let him fight for you once. Let him chase you." . So many times I wanted to reach into the book and SHAKE him. And smack Zach for good measure.
There were moments that Zach did show his vulnerable and tender side for Lucky. When he didn't battle his feelings so hard. And just gave in. But suddenly the walls go back up again. And again. He wants Lucky but he doesn't deserve him. He pushes him away then wants to claim him again. Agghh. Had my head spinning. Not mention, tiresome. Seeing Lucky being the main pursuer. Chasing after Zach. Acquiescing to his rules. Hiding their relationship. Then being turn away whenever he got too close yet again.
Not my favorite book. There was not enough grovel to justify the amount of heartbreak. And rejection Lucky had to suffered nearly to the end. Zach didn't get his head out of his ass and man up until his brother talked sense to him. That simple declaration on top of a table. The grand gesture. Didn't impress me. Guy was LUCKY (pun intended) he was given those 4th & 5 chances.
Honestly, I am so disappointed in Zach's character. I expected more from him. I understand he had a bad past. Certainly that horrid love affair, his PTSD contributed into the broken man that Lucky loves regardless. And continues laying his heart out for time and time again. But at the same time, it's like "Lucky, buddy. Let him fight for you once. Let him chase you." . So many times I wanted to reach into the book and SHAKE him. And smack Zach for good measure.
There were moments that Zach did show his vulnerable and tender side for Lucky. When he didn't battle his feelings so hard. And just gave in. But suddenly the walls go back up again. And again. He wants Lucky but he doesn't deserve him. He pushes him away then wants to claim him again. Agghh. Had my head spinning. Not mention, tiresome. Seeing Lucky being the main pursuer. Chasing after Zach. Acquiescing to his rules. Hiding their relationship. Then being turn away whenever he got too close yet again.
Not my favorite book. There was not enough grovel to justify the amount of heartbreak. And rejection Lucky had to suffered nearly to the end. Zach didn't get his head out of his ass and man up until his brother talked sense to him. That simple declaration on top of a table. The grand gesture. Didn't impress me. Guy was LUCKY (pun intended) he was given those 4th & 5 chances.
April 7, 2020
I loved this book, I really did. It has a lot of action, outdoorsy and adventurous stuff, characters from the previous books popping in and some hilarious moments, especially with Lucky’s best friend!
I am completely and utterly in love with Lucky, for being so young and having been through all of the things he had to face in his young life, he’s a strong, loving man unafraid to go for what he wants and put himself out there, emotionally and physically.
I cannot say that I was much impressed with Zach for good part of the book…. When we met him at the end of book 3 he seemed like a decent, caring man, and I had high expectations for him. But in this book… he sort of comes off as a kind of a selfish prick… I mean, I get having been hurt in the past, but he could see what his actions were doing to poor Lucky and he’s a good ten years older than him so he should be the bigger man and the more mature one, but… Thank God for lucky, he really is one of my favourite characters in the whole series!
I am completely and utterly in love with Lucky, for being so young and having been through all of the things he had to face in his young life, he’s a strong, loving man unafraid to go for what he wants and put himself out there, emotionally and physically.
I cannot say that I was much impressed with Zach for good part of the book…. When we met him at the end of book 3 he seemed like a decent, caring man, and I had high expectations for him. But in this book… he sort of comes off as a kind of a selfish prick… I mean, I get having been hurt in the past, but he could see what his actions were doing to poor Lucky and he’s a good ten years older than him so he should be the bigger man and the more mature one, but… Thank God for lucky, he really is one of my favourite characters in the whole series!
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