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Zero Hour #2
Devil's Hour
Devil’s hour, noun: the hour when the demon or devil who leads hell is at its strongest.
Born on the wrong side of the tracks, Royce Locke is no stranger to scrapping and fighting for the things he wants. What he desires most is Sawyer Key—his partner on the force and the man he’s falling in love with. After asking Sawyer to take a chance on him, Royce will need to back up his pretty words with fearless action instead of being his own worst enemy.
Someone is harassing the mayor of Savannah, and Locke and Key are tasked with finding out who. The investigation quickly takes a twisted turn, leading them to an enemy who thinks purification by fire is the only way to save the city. Scarier than The Purists’ elusiveness is their ability to turn public opinion in their favor, creating unrest and threatening anarchy by fanning flames and fear. When you play with fire, someone is bound to get burned.
When menace becomes murder, the two detectives will race the clock against the devil to save their beloved city from becoming a raging inferno. Royce will need to draw on his grit now more than ever if he hopes to realize the dreams that are finally within reach. The rag is lit, the Molotov cocktail is tossed, and the zero hour is upon them. Challenge received and accepted.
Devil’s Hour is the second book in the Zero Hour series, which follows Locke and Key’s investigations and evolving relationship. This is a series that must be read in order. Devil’s Hour has a happy-for-now ending with no cliffhanger. It contains mature language and sexual content intended for adults 18 and older.
Trigger warning: Part of the storyline involves coming to terms with a friend’s suicide, which may be difficult for some people to read.
Listening Length 9 hours and 31 minutes
Born on the wrong side of the tracks, Royce Locke is no stranger to scrapping and fighting for the things he wants. What he desires most is Sawyer Key—his partner on the force and the man he’s falling in love with. After asking Sawyer to take a chance on him, Royce will need to back up his pretty words with fearless action instead of being his own worst enemy.
Someone is harassing the mayor of Savannah, and Locke and Key are tasked with finding out who. The investigation quickly takes a twisted turn, leading them to an enemy who thinks purification by fire is the only way to save the city. Scarier than The Purists’ elusiveness is their ability to turn public opinion in their favor, creating unrest and threatening anarchy by fanning flames and fear. When you play with fire, someone is bound to get burned.
When menace becomes murder, the two detectives will race the clock against the devil to save their beloved city from becoming a raging inferno. Royce will need to draw on his grit now more than ever if he hopes to realize the dreams that are finally within reach. The rag is lit, the Molotov cocktail is tossed, and the zero hour is upon them. Challenge received and accepted.
Devil’s Hour is the second book in the Zero Hour series, which follows Locke and Key’s investigations and evolving relationship. This is a series that must be read in order. Devil’s Hour has a happy-for-now ending with no cliffhanger. It contains mature language and sexual content intended for adults 18 and older.
Trigger warning: Part of the storyline involves coming to terms with a friend’s suicide, which may be difficult for some people to read.
Listening Length 9 hours and 31 minutes
10 pages, Audible Audio
First published December 16, 2019
457 people are currently reading
731 people want to read
About the author
Aimee Nicole Walker
74 books2,018 followersI'm a wife and mother of three teenage kids. I've been married to the same wonderful man for twenty years. I've decided that if I can survive raising three kids then I can survive anything!! I haven't uttered the Mama's curse yet, but it could happen any day now. You know the one..."I hope you have a child just like you someday."
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
I'm an avid reader and lover of all things romance. I've spent my entire adult life waiting to follow my dreams of becoming a writer. One day this past summer, I decided to just do it. No more wishing and hoping. I haven't quit my day job, but that is my ultimate goal...make a living telling stories of love.
I write contemporary gay fiction. I hope you will love reading my books as much as I enjoy writing them.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 310 reviews
January 31, 2020
I don't know if I liked it more than the first book... I admit to loving the mystery/suspense part in the first book more. I liked them being new partners and the sexual tension... even though they did act on it within days...it felt like a slow burn.
This second book was definitely hotter but also more lovey-dovey...
I guess that means I liked the first book a tad bit more. I also had a bit more trouble getting into this one in the beginning, but once I was...it was full steam ahead :P
I'm gonna keep a close eye on this author because I definitely enjoyed her writing style ;)
Also... there is supposed to be another book, but I have no idea on the main characters ..
This second book was definitely hotter but also more lovey-dovey...
I guess that means I liked the first book a tad bit more. I also had a bit more trouble getting into this one in the beginning, but once I was...it was full steam ahead :P
I'm gonna keep a close eye on this author because I definitely enjoyed her writing style ;)
Also... there is supposed to be another book, but I have no idea on the main characters ..
March 18, 2024
Oh my lordy don't read this one in public or listen to the audio with your headphones off because Aimee Nicole kicks it off with explosively hot chemistry-filled sex!
In Devil's Hour we get inside Royce's head and I've been looking forward to it and wasn't disappointed at all. He really is a complex character, filled with internal doubts, guilts and probably some kind of trauma-related anxiety over Marcus' suicide.
Speaking of, Royce's former partner and best friend's death is still playing a part in the narrative, and with this novel, we see more and more how all the various threads are being gently woven together into a tight plot which keeps the tensions rolling throughout.
I did guess the bad guy as soon as he arrived on the scene but, for me anyways, I don't think it actually was obvious, I think I was just looking hard for the odd little clue and something just tipped me off.
The relationship development is delicious. Having been shot in the last book, Royce is now fully on board with Sawyer and there's some serious sparks flying throughout, as well as some awwww moments.
Chuck in a mad cult, arson attacks and the mayor's behaviour being exposed, and you have another wonderful Locke and Key adventure.
Given what happens at the end of this one, I'm really hoping there isn't a long wait for book three!
In Devil's Hour we get inside Royce's head and I've been looking forward to it and wasn't disappointed at all. He really is a complex character, filled with internal doubts, guilts and probably some kind of trauma-related anxiety over Marcus' suicide.
Speaking of, Royce's former partner and best friend's death is still playing a part in the narrative, and with this novel, we see more and more how all the various threads are being gently woven together into a tight plot which keeps the tensions rolling throughout.
I did guess the bad guy as soon as he arrived on the scene but, for me anyways, I don't think it actually was obvious, I think I was just looking hard for the odd little clue and something just tipped me off.
The relationship development is delicious. Having been shot in the last book, Royce is now fully on board with Sawyer and there's some serious sparks flying throughout, as well as some awwww moments.
Chuck in a mad cult, arson attacks and the mayor's behaviour being exposed, and you have another wonderful Locke and Key adventure.
Given what happens at the end of this one, I'm really hoping there isn't a long wait for book three!
April 5, 2023
I think I liked this more than book 1, but it is so hard to say because they were both so good! The ending was so intense. I thought it had the perfect balance of mystery & romance. Excited for book 3!
October 15, 2024
The second book in this series was definitely better plot-wise. The case Royce and Sawyer are working on is exciting enough to give a good background to the relationship development.
This book is told solely from Royce's perspective and I had a little trouble getting into it because I still had the echo of Sawyer in my head and got the two characters a little mixed up. It's possible that this is a me problem. Anyway, it was good to finally know Royce's thoughts and get to know him better.
I especially love his coming out, that was an absolutely perfect scene.
I also particularly like the way they communicate. Even if they don't always understand each other straight away and there are a few hiccups, they always talk to each other immediately and nothing can linger.
Whoa and the sex scenes are indeed pretty nice ... cough cough hot ...
Once inside the car, the air was as thick as Sawyer’s erection Royce was tracing with his finger. “I can’t wait to stretch around you,” Royce said, giving Sawyer’s cock a good squeeze through his jeans.
He wasn’t sure if it was his words or touch that made Sawyer moan and fidget, but he loved the reaction and wanted more.
“I’ve obsessed about you taking me for weeks—soft and slow while looking into my eyes and hard and furious while bending me over anything that would support us.” Sawyer made a noise that was part strangled breath and part euphoric cry. Royce loved how he could reduce this polished man to incoherent rambling. 🤤🤤🤤
I'm not really a fan of the ending, but yeah, I figured something like that would happen.
This book is told solely from Royce's perspective and I had a little trouble getting into it because I still had the echo of Sawyer in my head and got the two characters a little mixed up. It's possible that this is a me problem. Anyway, it was good to finally know Royce's thoughts and get to know him better.
I especially love his coming out, that was an absolutely perfect scene.
I also particularly like the way they communicate. Even if they don't always understand each other straight away and there are a few hiccups, they always talk to each other immediately and nothing can linger.
Whoa and the sex scenes are indeed pretty nice ... cough cough hot ...
Once inside the car, the air was as thick as Sawyer’s erection Royce was tracing with his finger. “I can’t wait to stretch around you,” Royce said, giving Sawyer’s cock a good squeeze through his jeans.
He wasn’t sure if it was his words or touch that made Sawyer moan and fidget, but he loved the reaction and wanted more.
“I’ve obsessed about you taking me for weeks—soft and slow while looking into my eyes and hard and furious while bending me over anything that would support us.” Sawyer made a noise that was part strangled breath and part euphoric cry. Royce loved how he could reduce this polished man to incoherent rambling. 🤤🤤🤤
I'm not really a fan of the ending, but yeah, I figured something like that would happen.
November 4, 2020
4.5 sexy detectives falling in love and solving crimes stars
Home wasn’t a place; it was a heartbeat. Royce had found the one he wanted forever.
Audiobook: 5 stars
I fucking love Tristan James’ voice and his narration is so nice, he does an amazing job here. He makes the book sound so fascinating. He does a perfect job here.
This is a lovely audiobook, the story is really fast passed and it’s awesome to listen to it.
Story: 4.5 stars
I’m so in love with Locke and Sawyer and the relationship they have. Like jesus the relationship development in this book is so damn nice. I loved loved that part. I loved seeing them interact, seeing them fall in love more and more every day and I love their banter. These two are so good together and they are clearly made for each other. I love how there is no relationship angst, when they face a problem on the relationship front, they actually talk about it as soon as it happens and they resolve their issue on the spot. They never keep themselves waiting or keep the other in the unknown. They talk and solve the problems together. I love it. These guy have amazing communication, on the job and in their relationship. They already commited to each other and know that they want to be together, so every decision they take is to make that happen, they are dedicated to being together and do everything that they can to make it work. I loved it. And mostly I just loved how these two comminucated and how they always talked to each other and solved their issues together.
As far as story goes, I loved it. I love following these two on their job and I love following them as the solve the crimes. The crime is really interesting in this one and I loved seing it unfold. I had a lot of fun following their investigation. And these two work so damn well together.
Also, Locke and Sawyer are so fucking swoony, damn.
Exhibit A:
“I’m not in love with your looks, your body, or even your sexy brain. I am in love with your heart. You are my home for as long as you’ll have me. I love you.”
Exhibit B:
Royce cupped Sawyer’s face, running his thumb over his smiling lips and, with his heart in his throat, said, “I fucking love you.” Sawyer gasped, and his lips trembled beneath the pad of his finger. “So damn much.” Sawyer closed his eyes, and he inhaled deeply. For once, he wasn’t doing breathing exercises to find patience for Royce. He could tell Sawyer was happy by the serene expression on his face. When he reopened his eyes, Sawyer smiled brilliantly at him. “I love you too. God, I do.”
Home wasn’t a place; it was a heartbeat. Royce had found the one he wanted forever.
Audiobook: 5 stars
I fucking love Tristan James’ voice and his narration is so nice, he does an amazing job here. He makes the book sound so fascinating. He does a perfect job here.
This is a lovely audiobook, the story is really fast passed and it’s awesome to listen to it.
Story: 4.5 stars
I’m so in love with Locke and Sawyer and the relationship they have. Like jesus the relationship development in this book is so damn nice. I loved loved that part. I loved seeing them interact, seeing them fall in love more and more every day and I love their banter. These two are so good together and they are clearly made for each other. I love how there is no relationship angst, when they face a problem on the relationship front, they actually talk about it as soon as it happens and they resolve their issue on the spot. They never keep themselves waiting or keep the other in the unknown. They talk and solve the problems together. I love it. These guy have amazing communication, on the job and in their relationship. They already commited to each other and know that they want to be together, so every decision they take is to make that happen, they are dedicated to being together and do everything that they can to make it work. I loved it. And mostly I just loved how these two comminucated and how they always talked to each other and solved their issues together.
As far as story goes, I loved it. I love following these two on their job and I love following them as the solve the crimes. The crime is really interesting in this one and I loved seing it unfold. I had a lot of fun following their investigation. And these two work so damn well together.
Also, Locke and Sawyer are so fucking swoony, damn.
Exhibit A:
“I’m not in love with your looks, your body, or even your sexy brain. I am in love with your heart. You are my home for as long as you’ll have me. I love you.”
Exhibit B:
Royce cupped Sawyer’s face, running his thumb over his smiling lips and, with his heart in his throat, said, “I fucking love you.” Sawyer gasped, and his lips trembled beneath the pad of his finger. “So damn much.” Sawyer closed his eyes, and he inhaled deeply. For once, he wasn’t doing breathing exercises to find patience for Royce. He could tell Sawyer was happy by the serene expression on his face. When he reopened his eyes, Sawyer smiled brilliantly at him. “I love you too. God, I do.”
March 8, 2024
Sophomore slump of the trilogy?
The mystery/crime on this one took a back seat to the romance in this 2nd book of the series.
This time we get to peek inside Royce’s head. At first I was delighted, but I liked Sawyer’s POV better. TBH, they didn’t feel too different.
It’s all hearts & sex for the two detectives. Even when they should be thinking about what their cases.
The cases were simple here and there was such little digging into the mystery that it was hard to guess a perp from the clues.
Hot scenes.
I’m on to the next one to finish the trilogy off—but my expectations are lower now.
Tristan James’s superb narration certainly raises my enjoyment of the book.
My rec? Well,
If you read the first one, you gotta finish it out.
The mystery/crime on this one took a back seat to the romance in this 2nd book of the series.
This time we get to peek inside Royce’s head. At first I was delighted, but I liked Sawyer’s POV better. TBH, they didn’t feel too different.
It’s all hearts & sex for the two detectives. Even when they should be thinking about what their cases.
The cases were simple here and there was such little digging into the mystery that it was hard to guess a perp from the clues.
Hot scenes.
I’m on to the next one to finish the trilogy off—but my expectations are lower now.
Tristan James’s superb narration certainly raises my enjoyment of the book.
My rec? Well,
If you read the first one, you gotta finish it out.
August 14, 2025
Not perfect, but definitely better than book 1.
I’ll start with the thing that improved the most : the mystery part was more than a few thrown-together, quickly resolved cases. While the actual culprit came a bit out of the blue, it still kept me intrigued and interested enough. So yeah, A LOT better than book 1.
Another thing that surprised me: I liked the narration well enough to NOT skip to reading. No idea if I got used to Tristan James, or if he did a better job here 🤷♀️
As for the character and the relationship development: it helped to get Royce’s pov in this book, but I kind of missed being in Sawyer’s head, too. I still don’t feel as close to them as to other “detective couples”, but I like their dynamic, and I loved how committed they are to each other.
I’m not a huge fan of family members (or sure characters in general) popping in and out without having a proper background or a real impact on the story, I feel like quite a few “side plots” aren’t particularly well fleshed out and happen off page.
The crumbs we get about Marcus’ story definitely make me pick up the last book in this series right away, I’m really hoping for a solid case and a big showdown at the end of this series 🤞
So yeah. Not perfect, but entertaining enough to rate it with 4 stars 🙂
I’ll start with the thing that improved the most : the mystery part was more than a few thrown-together, quickly resolved cases. While the actual culprit came a bit out of the blue, it still kept me intrigued and interested enough. So yeah, A LOT better than book 1.
Another thing that surprised me: I liked the narration well enough to NOT skip to reading. No idea if I got used to Tristan James, or if he did a better job here 🤷♀️
As for the character and the relationship development: it helped to get Royce’s pov in this book, but I kind of missed being in Sawyer’s head, too. I still don’t feel as close to them as to other “detective couples”, but I like their dynamic, and I loved how committed they are to each other.
I’m not a huge fan of family members (or sure characters in general) popping in and out without having a proper background or a real impact on the story, I feel like quite a few “side plots” aren’t particularly well fleshed out and happen off page.
The crumbs we get about Marcus’ story definitely make me pick up the last book in this series right away, I’m really hoping for a solid case and a big showdown at the end of this series 🤞
So yeah. Not perfect, but entertaining enough to rate it with 4 stars 🙂
December 19, 2019
I enjoyed this book as much as the first! Ground Zero introduced Sawyer Key and what made him the man he was, but this time we got an unfettered look into Royce Key and what made him tick. The men are vastly different but still have some commonalities: dedication and passion for their work, strong desire to help others and need to be loved especially since they see the worst of the world every day. I liked them together - there were funny and heartfelt moments as well as frustrated and sad ones, but they still managed to show how they felt.
This time the investigation gets them stepping on the toes of powers that be who do not want their dirty secrets coming out. I loved the fast pace and intrigue that went hand in hand with a bit of religious twist and technology. It kept me guessing and getting invested in the outcome. Sawyer and Royce were absolutely fantastic while wrangling with both professional and personal lives.
The secondary characters are to be praised as well. They added some humor and snark and at times some extra love to the story of two men who finally were able to let themselves feel. All in all, this was wonderfully crafted story with a good mystery and two MCs that I wanted to succeed and be happy, many situations that were relatable and Bones the feisty lovable cat. I recommend it.
This time the investigation gets them stepping on the toes of powers that be who do not want their dirty secrets coming out. I loved the fast pace and intrigue that went hand in hand with a bit of religious twist and technology. It kept me guessing and getting invested in the outcome. Sawyer and Royce were absolutely fantastic while wrangling with both professional and personal lives.
The secondary characters are to be praised as well. They added some humor and snark and at times some extra love to the story of two men who finally were able to let themselves feel. All in all, this was wonderfully crafted story with a good mystery and two MCs that I wanted to succeed and be happy, many situations that were relatable and Bones the feisty lovable cat. I recommend it.
January 29, 2022
Loved it ... this had pace, intrigue and lots of angsty tension. Locke & Key are a great character combination and are perfect, even with their issues, just perfect ❤️
February 26, 2020
3.75-good-but-not-great-bewildering-stars!! 😳🤔💞. So let me start by saying that I ABSOLUTELY LOVED 😍 the first book (Ground Zero); the slow burn, the cases that the duo solved, the sizzling banter and sex, the fun supporting characters and finally the ongoing backstory of the mystery surrounding Marcus's (Royce Locke's last partner and BFF) death and investigation.
I dived into this book, expecting the same magic and although everything was great...something was missing😢.
This book was entirely from Royce's POV (just like Ground Zero was from Sawyer's) and it started off with a bang, 💞🔥🔥😉 both personally and professionally for Locke & Key 😍. Royce is still not out to anyone about his bisexuality or his relationship with Sawyer, but the two are as close to cohabiting as possible. Although Royce is plagued by his insecurities due to his upbringing and family; he's falling hard for Sawyer and often gets possessive 😍 much to the amusement of Sawyer and their colleagues. While they are building on this new relationship, a high-profile case involving the Mayor drops into their lap which takes up all their spare time 😳. The investigation involves arsonists, religious fanatics, hackers and a prostitution ring.... and this is where the author lost me😳🙄. Ms. Walker just threw everything in the cauldron and expected magic... and well the sparkle just wasn't there, at least not for me.
Overall the book was good and I still love Sawyer and Royce and their new found relationship 😍💞. I'm also looking forward to the third installment with both anticipation and trepidation. But for this one, I have no one to blame but myself, my expectations were so high that despite the book being hotter and sexier, the police case meatier and more clarity starting to happen around Marcus's death, it fell a little short.
I dived into this book, expecting the same magic and although everything was great...something was missing😢.
This book was entirely from Royce's POV (just like Ground Zero was from Sawyer's) and it started off with a bang, 💞🔥🔥😉 both personally and professionally for Locke & Key 😍. Royce is still not out to anyone about his bisexuality or his relationship with Sawyer, but the two are as close to cohabiting as possible. Although Royce is plagued by his insecurities due to his upbringing and family; he's falling hard for Sawyer and often gets possessive 😍 much to the amusement of Sawyer and their colleagues. While they are building on this new relationship, a high-profile case involving the Mayor drops into their lap which takes up all their spare time 😳. The investigation involves arsonists, religious fanatics, hackers and a prostitution ring.... and this is where the author lost me😳🙄. Ms. Walker just threw everything in the cauldron and expected magic... and well the sparkle just wasn't there, at least not for me.
Overall the book was good and I still love Sawyer and Royce and their new found relationship 😍💞. I'm also looking forward to the third installment with both anticipation and trepidation. But for this one, I have no one to blame but myself, my expectations were so high that despite the book being hotter and sexier, the police case meatier and more clarity starting to happen around Marcus's death, it fell a little short.
January 10, 2020
That was an excellently eventful story. All the feelings!
I was delighted to know more from Royce’s side. He is complicated, hurt, also passionate and fierce. Sawyer has a warm and kind personality, he is transparent and talks clear language, which is also the best way to approach Royce. Another thing I was thrilled about was that beside all the excitement and sensations, this story had a heady dose of sexual attraction, sensuality, and activities.
When book one was about building up the heat, in book two all bets were off.
My goodness, they were hot af together. Handsy, naughty, and greedy. Both can make the other ramble incoherently and lose control.
Their relationship felt natural, with ups and downs. They have mature and thoughtful conversations, they are emotional with a healthy portion of humor.
The case starts when mayor Goodwin gets to the office and there’s a threatening letter. Someone wants to purify the city by fire. It escalates fast and becomes more than only fire.
Every aspect was intellectually thought out, nothing superficial here. Like the first book, it’s understandable, logical, and plausibly constructed.
This author has a delicious way of writing, the witty comments are placed at the right moments with the right weight and awesomely funny, really really good humor. The serious comments were well placed and at times heartbreaking and devastating.
There is one beautiful line spoken, several times, throughout this book that gave me goosebumps. I was stunned by the way the author expressed how deeply the men loved each other, it was breathtaking!
Home wasn’t a place; it was a heartbeat.
Beautifully written story, with lots of entertainment. Besides the cases and the lives of Sawyer and Royce, we get to know more about Marcus, because a lot is going on.
Definitely a must-read!!
I was delighted to know more from Royce’s side. He is complicated, hurt, also passionate and fierce. Sawyer has a warm and kind personality, he is transparent and talks clear language, which is also the best way to approach Royce. Another thing I was thrilled about was that beside all the excitement and sensations, this story had a heady dose of sexual attraction, sensuality, and activities.
When book one was about building up the heat, in book two all bets were off.
My goodness, they were hot af together. Handsy, naughty, and greedy. Both can make the other ramble incoherently and lose control.
Their relationship felt natural, with ups and downs. They have mature and thoughtful conversations, they are emotional with a healthy portion of humor.
The case starts when mayor Goodwin gets to the office and there’s a threatening letter. Someone wants to purify the city by fire. It escalates fast and becomes more than only fire.
Every aspect was intellectually thought out, nothing superficial here. Like the first book, it’s understandable, logical, and plausibly constructed.
This author has a delicious way of writing, the witty comments are placed at the right moments with the right weight and awesomely funny, really really good humor. The serious comments were well placed and at times heartbreaking and devastating.
There is one beautiful line spoken, several times, throughout this book that gave me goosebumps. I was stunned by the way the author expressed how deeply the men loved each other, it was breathtaking!
Home wasn’t a place; it was a heartbeat.
Beautifully written story, with lots of entertainment. Besides the cases and the lives of Sawyer and Royce, we get to know more about Marcus, because a lot is going on.
Definitely a must-read!!
October 21, 2021
This was kind of disappointing than the first book....
The whole crime part bored me to no end because the thing was so stretched out. It was unnecessarily explained to the point I felt stupid. Also, aren't they supposed to be hard core detectives and not cutesy teenagers?
Sawyer and Locke had their moments though. Both of them were sweet on each other.
The number of people who hit on Sawyer was just annoying. I get that the author wanted to portray jealousy but that was a lousy way of doing it. Extremely annoying and unrealistic.
The sex was 🔥 (bcs of the dirty talk)
The side characters were nice and I did enjoy the book.
The whole crime part bored me to no end because the thing was so stretched out. It was unnecessarily explained to the point I felt stupid. Also, aren't they supposed to be hard core detectives and not cutesy teenagers?
Sawyer and Locke had their moments though. Both of them were sweet on each other.
The number of people who hit on Sawyer was just annoying. I get that the author wanted to portray jealousy but that was a lousy way of doing it. Extremely annoying and unrealistic.
The sex was 🔥 (bcs of the dirty talk)
The side characters were nice and I did enjoy the book.
January 9, 2020
4 stars.
Not a bad book. I could've used more romance, but I enjoyed all the action.
Full review soon.
Not a bad book. I could've used more romance, but I enjoyed all the action.
Full review soon.
April 5, 2023
Great second instalment! This built nicely on from the last book and I loved getting Locke’s POV here. I liked how parts of the plot carried on from book 1 with an added mystery element. I loved getting more relationship development between these two and felt the romance/action balance was well done. Keen to check out book 3 and the spin offs about some interesting side characters.
dnf
December 16, 2019Dnf at 6%
December 31, 2019
I usually enjoy this author’s work but my enjoyment of this one couldn’t even climb to 3 stars. I first met Detectives Locke and Key in book one, which I enjoyed, but in this story they spent a lot of time having sex, and I didn’t feel the emotional connection. Yes, they spoke of their feelings and making a commitment, but their behavior was more like a teen’s and far from what I’d expect of mature men in a professional situation.
An example of that is how (very) many times, they thought about having sex with the other or thought about their ass or other body parts, even when they were in serious or dangerous conditions. Somehow I just couldn’t dig deep enough to believe experienced detectives would toss all their caution to the wind to ogle their partner when they should be working. And there were one or two times when I actually made a note on the kindle app that their comments or behavior was inappropriate for the scene.
As to the case—the case that was constantly put on the back burner while the guys took time for sex. To be honest, the plot wasn’t cohesive and it wasn’t interesting enough to follow. With so many interruptions for sexy times, I lost interest in the case that involved a threat to the mayor by a group of religious zealots. The mayor was an ass right from the start and the group claiming to hold her and others accountable for the sinners and criminals in the story wasn’t even remotely interesting and certainly not unique.
As the story closes, Locke and Key have more work to do on their relationship, and Locke has more work to do to prove himself mature and capable in his new position as sergeant on the force. Their romance will continue in the next book but I don’t plan to continue following the series.
An example of that is how (very) many times, they thought about having sex with the other or thought about their ass or other body parts, even when they were in serious or dangerous conditions. Somehow I just couldn’t dig deep enough to believe experienced detectives would toss all their caution to the wind to ogle their partner when they should be working. And there were one or two times when I actually made a note on the kindle app that their comments or behavior was inappropriate for the scene.
As to the case—the case that was constantly put on the back burner while the guys took time for sex. To be honest, the plot wasn’t cohesive and it wasn’t interesting enough to follow. With so many interruptions for sexy times, I lost interest in the case that involved a threat to the mayor by a group of religious zealots. The mayor was an ass right from the start and the group claiming to hold her and others accountable for the sinners and criminals in the story wasn’t even remotely interesting and certainly not unique.
As the story closes, Locke and Key have more work to do on their relationship, and Locke has more work to do to prove himself mature and capable in his new position as sergeant on the force. Their romance will continue in the next book but I don’t plan to continue following the series.
February 8, 2021
This was so much better than the first book in the series. (I might have enjoyed it more since I know thins I shouldn't know by spoiling myself reading both of the books in the spin-off series.)
December 5, 2025
Welp that was a ride
August 19, 2021
I don't think I gave the book a fair chance. Listening to majority of it a while ago but had a difficulty finishing it because of my mental health going very down. I honestly don't remember my whole thoughts in this but I think I enjoyed it. So ill give it a 3 stars. Might re listen to it in the future or just pick up something else my Aimee Nicole Walker in the future
August 28, 2020
Book Reaction: https://neverhollowed.com/2020/08/28/...
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
Rating: 4 Stars – minor quibbles but I loved it to bits
May 26, 2021
Loved it...
This time it was Locke's POV.
This had mystery/crime, humor, intrigue and tension.
Locke & Key were perfect together, even with all their baggages...
Relationship development in this book was perfect!
I could've used more romance, but I enjoyed all the action!
Also my curiosity about Marcus kicked up even more.
This time it was Locke's POV.
This had mystery/crime, humor, intrigue and tension.
Locke & Key were perfect together, even with all their baggages...
Relationship development in this book was perfect!
I could've used more romance, but I enjoyed all the action!
Also my curiosity about Marcus kicked up even more.
March 23, 2020
I’m really enjoying this romance between Sawyer and Royce, two detectives from the Savannah Police. They were introduced to readers and to each other in “First ground” and “Devil’s Hour” picks up where First Ground ended : with our 2 MCs committed to explore their attraction and work out their professional links.
It’s getting deeper into the relationships between Sawyer and Royce, with still a lot of hotness, and that pleased me a lot. The chance both MCs decided to take with each other is paying off nicely : Sawyer is finally back into life and Royce is calmed down by Sawyer and less fearful. They fit. In the first book, we got into the head of Sawyer and this time, it’s into Royce’s head and it had a nice layer for this MC.
This is a fun, hot and entertaining series. I like the banter, the pace of the relationship development between the MC, the way they communicate and the interactions with the recurring characters. The investigations are not too deep, but the on-going look into what happened with Royce’s dead partner is interesting.
A nice series and I’m looking forward for the next instalment.
ARC of “Devil’s Hour” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
It’s getting deeper into the relationships between Sawyer and Royce, with still a lot of hotness, and that pleased me a lot. The chance both MCs decided to take with each other is paying off nicely : Sawyer is finally back into life and Royce is calmed down by Sawyer and less fearful. They fit. In the first book, we got into the head of Sawyer and this time, it’s into Royce’s head and it had a nice layer for this MC.
This is a fun, hot and entertaining series. I like the banter, the pace of the relationship development between the MC, the way they communicate and the interactions with the recurring characters. The investigations are not too deep, but the on-going look into what happened with Royce’s dead partner is interesting.
A nice series and I’m looking forward for the next instalment.
ARC of “Devil’s Hour” was generously provided by the author/publisher in exchange for an honest review.
December 3, 2022
Book 2 starts with Royce and Sawyer agreeing to give their relationship a fair chance.
Royce as just been promoted to Sergeant and his first case involves the mayor receiving threats and the city is being cleansed through fire.
Working their case, they also managed to put effort into their relationship. Talking through difficulties they may encounter and having lots and lots of sex.
I was a bit disappointed the author concentrated on just the one case involving the mayor. I really loved the different cases they had to solve in the previous book.
But still, this was an enjoyable read, with a dirty mayor and an exuberant mama Key.
While the first book, Ground Zero, was from Sawyer’s POV, with the emphasis on his past, this second book is only from Royce's POV focussing on his dysfunctional and violent family and his complicated relation with them.
I'm guessing book 3 will be centered around their future together.
Buddy read with the gals from Turning Pages At Midnight
Part of the Zero Hour Series and must be read in order:
Read
December 16, 2019Royce is amazed at how important Sawyer has become to him in such a short time. Sawyer got past all of Royce’s barriers, and when he fell in love, he fell hard. Sawyer is just as invested in the relationship. Their separate cases converge, bringing danger into their lives.
I liked this book. The relationship was extremely well done and the writing was excellent. The flow if the investigations wasn’t hurried but still kept the who-dun-it intriguing and the men’s attraction was white hot. As is the usual case with this author, characters and storyline created a satisfying book.
The above should of been my review. I read all manner of books and not much of anything bothers me. However this book hit my only trigger. It caused me to stop reading. I consider not finishing it. Thought about it for a while and decided that since I had agreed to accept the arc that I needed to finish it. This book would of been a solid 5 stars before I had to quit reading. So to my dilemma. Do I ignore the trigger? Give a lesser rating? Is it wrong to penalize an authors hard work because the story created a painful personal reaction? I believe my best course of action is not to give a rating. I’ll just let my words speak for themselves.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
I liked this book. The relationship was extremely well done and the writing was excellent. The flow if the investigations wasn’t hurried but still kept the who-dun-it intriguing and the men’s attraction was white hot. As is the usual case with this author, characters and storyline created a satisfying book.
The above should of been my review. I read all manner of books and not much of anything bothers me. However this book hit my only trigger. It caused me to stop reading. I consider not finishing it. Thought about it for a while and decided that since I had agreed to accept the arc that I needed to finish it. This book would of been a solid 5 stars before I had to quit reading. So to my dilemma. Do I ignore the trigger? Give a lesser rating? Is it wrong to penalize an authors hard work because the story created a painful personal reaction? I believe my best course of action is not to give a rating. I’ll just let my words speak for themselves.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
July 6, 2021
Don’t you just love the characters names...Locke & Key. What are the chances of partners having names like that?? These two are imaginative and remarkable. This story is fast paced and Royce and Sawyer are unstoppable. I really liked that I couldn’t figure out who the bad guy was...but neither could Locke and Key until almost the very end. It was fun to keep guessing though. The chemistry between the two guys is 100% combustible and the way they tease and banter back and forth gives them depth and personality. I’m looking forward to the next book in the series.
November 11, 2024
Character- 4/5
Plot- 4/5
Pacing- 3.5/5
Entertainment- 4.5/5
Rating- 4.25/5
Well, i've been completely bamboozled by Aimee Nicole Walker, because the writing quality of this book compared to the first one is night and day. We actually manage to get some great plot and mystery in this book, and I actually didn't have a clue who was the guilty party throughout (and she did breadcrumb effectively). And yet none of the camp CSI fun has been abandoned, in fact she's just become more effective at employing it.
Our two main guys really hit their stride in this one. Gone is Locke's very grating emotional whiplash, and out comes the distraught man who has finally found a semblance of happiness with his new partner Keye. Locke's past gets much more flushing out in this one, and we begin to understand his hesitance from the previous book. We also see him grapple with the conflicting emotions of his now dead best friend, and the possibility that he was corrupt all along. He has to come to terms with the idea that people can be flawed, making him more open to accepting his own flaws.
All of this is facilitated due to Keye's open and warming heart that he fully gives over to Locke in this book. Keye learns to let go of the grief of his past, and to allow himself to fully embrace this new love. This book is actually very fucking touching, like what? The side characters also get much more loving in this one, with my two stand out favourites being the Chief and Keye's no nonsense super model mother(adopt me please).
But the element which seen the most improvement has to be the plot. Its genuinely engaging and competently put together. Walker doesn't just try to throw together a bunch of random crimes for the two to solve, they have to pour their energy into discovering the culprits behind some increasingly dangerous arson incidents that quickly turn deadly. There is an urgency to this plot, and its all wrapped up in juicy political drama that ends with a rather tense situation for our two favourite detectives.
Like holy hell this book is entertaining, and the characters have been immensely improved upon. This book genuinely made me want to continue onto the next one, and to discover what else these two could uncover. Honestly if my first review didn't sound wild enough for you, definitely give this one a try, the quality is much better and unhinged CSI vibes are still present. I see you Walker.
Plot- 4/5
Pacing- 3.5/5
Entertainment- 4.5/5
Rating- 4.25/5
Well, i've been completely bamboozled by Aimee Nicole Walker, because the writing quality of this book compared to the first one is night and day. We actually manage to get some great plot and mystery in this book, and I actually didn't have a clue who was the guilty party throughout (and she did breadcrumb effectively). And yet none of the camp CSI fun has been abandoned, in fact she's just become more effective at employing it.
Our two main guys really hit their stride in this one. Gone is Locke's very grating emotional whiplash, and out comes the distraught man who has finally found a semblance of happiness with his new partner Keye. Locke's past gets much more flushing out in this one, and we begin to understand his hesitance from the previous book. We also see him grapple with the conflicting emotions of his now dead best friend, and the possibility that he was corrupt all along. He has to come to terms with the idea that people can be flawed, making him more open to accepting his own flaws.
All of this is facilitated due to Keye's open and warming heart that he fully gives over to Locke in this book. Keye learns to let go of the grief of his past, and to allow himself to fully embrace this new love. This book is actually very fucking touching, like what? The side characters also get much more loving in this one, with my two stand out favourites being the Chief and Keye's no nonsense super model mother(adopt me please).
But the element which seen the most improvement has to be the plot. Its genuinely engaging and competently put together. Walker doesn't just try to throw together a bunch of random crimes for the two to solve, they have to pour their energy into discovering the culprits behind some increasingly dangerous arson incidents that quickly turn deadly. There is an urgency to this plot, and its all wrapped up in juicy political drama that ends with a rather tense situation for our two favourite detectives.
Like holy hell this book is entertaining, and the characters have been immensely improved upon. This book genuinely made me want to continue onto the next one, and to discover what else these two could uncover. Honestly if my first review didn't sound wild enough for you, definitely give this one a try, the quality is much better and unhinged CSI vibes are still present. I see you Walker.
November 21, 2022
¿Qué tienen estos libros que son tan adictivos?
Sólo sé que necesito más, y no sé que será de mi vida cuando termine la trilogía.
Sólo sé que necesito más, y no sé que será de mi vida cuando termine la trilogía.
December 20, 2019
Not striking sparks
Meh. Book 1 didn’t leave enough impression for me to remember who was who, or what the plot was supposed to be. It felt like a mish-mash of events, careening between the case in what I guess was the story arc and the case they were solving in this book, that wasn’t really solved exactly. OTT at the end and the relationship advances get lost in the details.
Meh. Book 1 didn’t leave enough impression for me to remember who was who, or what the plot was supposed to be. It felt like a mish-mash of events, careening between the case in what I guess was the story arc and the case they were solving in this book, that wasn’t really solved exactly. OTT at the end and the relationship advances get lost in the details.
April 5, 2020
Devil’s Hour
I loved this book even more than the first one and that’s saying a lot. This is a fantastic series with great mysteries and terrific characters. I can’t wait for the next book!
I loved this book even more than the first one and that’s saying a lot. This is a fantastic series with great mysteries and terrific characters. I can’t wait for the next book!
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