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A Spy Like Me #1

Clean Up on Aisle Mine

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Former CIA operative Damon Thorne is a fixer. He cleans up messes other people make of their lives to forget the wreckage his own has become. Whether it means retrieving a drug addict whose family is being blackmailed or rescuing a furball who’s the subject of a custody dispute, Damon just gets things done.

When the job means kidnapping the wild son of a prominent Senator in an election year, it should come with hazard pay.

From the day Jude Chenoweth was born into wealth and position, his father has groomed him to follow in his footsteps. Jude has other plans. Openly gay and infamous, all he wants to do is live his life, create his art, and never settle down.

Life has a way of kicking butts, even the sexy ones. Thrown together in a situation neither wanted, Damon and Jude must now decide how to move forward. Jude knows something is wrong when he gazes into Damon’s haunted brown eyes and Damon recognizes there’s much more to Jude than the caricature he shows the world.

This might be the beginning of a journey… or an incredibly stupid mistake. Perhaps working together will help them process their own demons. Whatever happens, neither of them believes Damon’s assignments will always come with a heaping helping of bad guys.

Not always… right?

290 pages, Kindle Edition

First published July 5, 2020

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About the author

Patricia Logan

114 books561 followers
International bestselling author Patricia Logan, resides in Los Angeles, California. The author of several #1 bestselling erotic romances in English, Italian, French, and Spanish lives in a small house with a large family. When she’s not writing her next thriller romance, she’s watching her grandchildren grow up way too soon, and raising kids who make her proud every day. One of her favorite tasks is coaxing nose kisses from cats who insist on flopping on her keyboard while she types. Married to a wonderful gentleman for 30 years, she counts herself lucky to be surrounded by people who love her and give her stories to tell every day.
Become a fan of Patricia at http://authorpatricialogan.com

Email her at patricialogan.author@yahoo.com. She loves to hear from readers more than anything and will respond to all emails.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
Profile Image for Jay.
383 reviews68 followers
July 24, 2020
Clean Up on Aisle Mine by Patricia Logan isn’t what I expected when I picked it up, nevertheless it is engrossing, entertaining, humorous and full of emotional substance. From the blurb we expect the stereotypical rebellious rich boy acting out. This presumption is so far from the truth, as his motivation is purely to live an honest, true to himself life, rebuking his father’s twisted sense of morality.

The superfluous guilt over the death of his wife and daughter destroys former CIA operative, Damon Thorne. Damon has buried himself in his job as a “fixer” skirting the law but efficiently taking care of the “tasks” his handler provides. He lives a life of solitude only including his furry companion, Tom, “a scrawny yellow cat with only one and a half ears but two rather impressive balls”, and his one-time comrade and best friend Leah, formally known as Leon.

On the flip side, Jude Chenoweth is comfortable with himself, his sexuality and his uninhibited lifestyle, much to the dismay of his prominent “family values” senator father who doesn’t approve of his “shameful” ways. He just wants Jude to benefit his own political career by being the compliant “model” gay son. In part, Jude’s motivation is because of his past, when men just got close to him because of who he is and what he has to offer them, not for altruistic reasons. Screw that!

‘Clean Up on Aisle Mine’… is engrossing, entertaining, humorous and full of emotional substance.

Damon’s newest job is to have a chat with the flamboyant tabloid attacking senator’s son. Damon doesn’t agree with the senator’s political stance, but hey, a job is a job. He only has to convince the young man to lay low and stay out of the limelight until his father’s campaign and election bid is over. How the hell is he going to accomplish that? Abduct him of course, and keep him captive until then. What he doesn’t expect is how quickly Jude gives up his role as prisoner and becomes a willing participant.

It’s endearing how Jude infuses his way into Damon’s life; playing a part in his fixer jobs and winning over both Tom and Leah. Jude awakens a dormant, if not suppressed, side of Damon’s bisexuality breaking him out of his multi-year celibacy. Is it a bit rushed? Probably, but you can feel the connection resonating between them and immediately accept their meeting was meant to be.

Jude and Damon are a bit of an odd couple but to me that made them more attractive. The slight age gap in this romance is quite appealing and it appears that we will get to be part of their lives again as the mystery in Clean Up on Aisle Mine ends without a full resolution, making us crave a bit more from the unlikely but vibrant pair in this A Spy Like Me series.
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,456 reviews32 followers
July 20, 2020
I was given a copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

This is the story of a former CIA agent who is hired to control a senator’s wild son on the eve of an election. But both Damon and Jude are a little more complicated than anyone expected and sparks soon fly between the two men.

Damon remains a mystery for much of the first half of this book. His job seems morally dubious and more than a little dangerous - but his relationship with Leah is so gentle it’s difficult to understand him as a true mercenary. Similarly, Jude’s party boy lifestyle doesn’t quite ring true when we see him with various friends and lovers. Readers get to know both men properly as they slowly get to know each other. I don’t feel like the character development is particularly deep or meaningful here but both men are more than they first seem.

I’m disappointed with the quality of the writing in this story. I first reviewed a Patricia Logan book several years ago and I’ve enjoyed many of the author’s books since. The language in this story feels choppy and the rambling story feels unedited in comparison to earlier writing. The characters and the central romance feel underdeveloped and there are continuity errors - for example, Leah is wearing Daisy Dukes on one page and a short dress two pages later. I also found the character of Leah problematic - some of the language used to describe her isn’t completely acceptable in 2020 and she feels like an uncomfortable compilation of trans cliches used to create a character more Drag Race than believable human. Boomer authors really need to think twice before adding trans characters for entertainment value.

Parts of this story are good fun and the action makes for a fast paced read. Unfortunately, as a long time fan of Patricia Logan, I’ve come to expect more polished writing from the author and this just didn’t quite work for me.
1,197 reviews7 followers
July 14, 2020
This story did not go anywhere near where I expected it to. And the ending wasn't what I expected either. With that said, it was a good beginning to a new series that I'm looking forward to reading.
Profile Image for Kirstin.
2,149 reviews20 followers
July 17, 2020
I super LOVED this!!! It was magical and right and they were soooooo freaking sweet. I CANNOT wait for the next in the series and I hope this comes out on audible!!!!
Profile Image for Lily S (Cover Lover).
820 reviews31 followers
July 29, 2020
I was really enjoying this but then it got too much for me. Too much insta love and I kept waiting for something to happen. I was expecting excitement but most of the book goes over the thoughts of each of the main characters. They kept thinking the same thoughts over and over and it got tiring. I also was sick of the descriptions after reading about them a bunch of times like Damon’s long bangs or how one of them framed the others face before kissing them.

There seemed to be parts of the story that should’ve been shorter, like the entire time at the bed and breakfast. The room they stayed in was described more than once. It got tiring. There were also a number of errors in the book that threw me off. I also felt like Jude wanting to be involved in Jude’s job was far fetched.

I really loved this authors Death and Destruction series and in that one of the characters calls the other “darlin” in his southern drawl. It’s a defining part of that character and one that stood out throughout that series. In this book Damon starts calling Jude “Darlin” and it felt wrong, like trying to take a popular part of another character from a different series and make it a part of this new character. It didn’t fit here for me and I actually cringed every time it was said.

I think this had so much potential but it wasn’t executed correctly. I want to try the next book in the series and I’m really hoping there’s more action. I expected more from this author since I know she can write really great books. When there was action here it felt forced and rushed. Hopefully the next book is not as drawn out with unnecessary things and tells a better story that I know this author can write.
Profile Image for Kendra T.
3,187 reviews41 followers
July 17, 2020
This was a great book. Damon is a fixer who was given the job of trying to convince a senator's "wild child" to tone it down and stay out of the limelight during the campaign. While at first Damon's insistence of staying with him and hiding Jude's seemed like a bit of overkill, the two guys really connected. Jude was such a great guy. He hadn't given any thought to slowing down his lifestyle, but spending time with Damon and meeting Leah (Damon's BFF) really had an effect on him. I liked how he never backed down from something that he really wanted. He could've said no to Damon, but he never intended to make things difficult for his father, he just didn't want to be without his freedom. It did seem like I had to push the "I believe" button just a little (why oh why is Jude telling information about Damon and his job to anyone?!? and how did Jude really get away with helping Damon out so much), but it is making for an interesting series as we move forward. There are definitely plot lines that were not solved in this book, and I'm really looking forward to finding out what happens next.
I really loved Damn, Jude, and Leah.

I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC provided by Gay Romance Reviews
Profile Image for Becca.
3,282 reviews48 followers
July 31, 2020
This is a really good start to this series. I really did enjoy it. Of course, I like all that undercover spy kind of stuff so that was a good for me. I loved the characters in this. The main three anyway. Damon, Jude, and Leah are some great peeps and I loved how they interacted. Especially when things got tough. And it’s about to get worse. My only complaint was how it left of. It was cliffhangery and ugh.
Damon is used to being unseen, as it were. Being an ex field op with the CIA, the job he now has he has good use of those skills he was taught. After having to leave the CIA for personal reasons, a friend got him a job where he rescues people, and animals, at times. He never knows what his assignments are from day to day. Only that his handler drives him nuts in where she leaves his assignments. But this next assignment has really thrown him off. Talking to a US Senator’s gay son to have him tone down his lifestyle as to not embarrass the family. The problem with this whole thing, is the way Jude is made out to be. Like he’s some villain or something, when that is so far from the truth. In truth, he’s an incredible person with a good head on his shoulder and brave as can be. Considering how he helped Damon once. But there’s more going on than that. Jude has opened up something in Damon he thought long dead. And when his best friend, Leah is kidnapped, Jude goes after her, and Damon realizes how much Jude has affected his life. But with what the kidnappers are asking for, can Damon save both of them in time? Because he has no clue what these people want.
The first person in this whole story you are going to love is Leah. I”m not telling anymore of her background, because it will give so much away, but she is a pistol and I love her attitude. The way she approaches life and people. She’s vibrant and fun and just amazing. Then you have Jude, who Damon was made to believe was someone else. But Jude is far from what Damon was made to believe. He’s super smart, he’s got a fiery temper, and stands up for what he believes in. And he don’t back down. But he’s also compassionate and tender and knows when to just be to let Damon work through stuff. It’s a beautiful thing. I loved watching the interaction between them. And I love how much Damon is starting to live again. Plus he and Jude work well together and it’s fun to watch them work.
I really enjoyed this book. I don’t want to add too much more because it will give a lot away. But I’m ready to see what’s going to happen next.

http://lovebytesreviews.com/
Profile Image for Ruthie Taylor.
3,724 reviews39 followers
July 19, 2020
~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

This is the first book in a new series - and a new author for me ... but I have already lined up a couple more to read when I have time. I will definitely be looking out for the next book, as I am very attached to Damon and Jude - as well as Leah and Tom.

Damon has a sad past, and now works in a non-governmental fixer role, but we get the idea of it being both very serious, in what he does, and the contacts he can call all, but also rather funny, because of the crazy places he gets his briefings. I am looking forward to finding out a bit more about exactly what the deal is there! One of his jobs is keeping a Senator's gay son out of the limelight as he is threatening his re-election campaign. Well, this job changes everything in Damon's life, and all for the better. As we watch it play out, and get to know both men and just how innately good they both are, we get a great action adventure and a hot and steamy romance too.

I am not going to say much more, other than it is well written, the characters are extremely hot, intelligent, calm, patient and even get the concept of communication being a good idea!! I am so happy that there is more to come - the good news is that we are not exactly left on a cliffhanger, but most certainly at a point where if the next book were available, I would have read it before coming to write my review.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for Maureen.
3,910 reviews39 followers
October 4, 2020
This is an amazing story, I'm blown away, what with high intrigue, CIA Operatives, fixers, I never expected to be caught up in something so exciting, neither did Jude. Spoiled, out there gay son of a politician, he jumped from club to club, man to man, getting more reckless the more his father railed at him. Until his father hired someone to hold him down, and, Boy!, did that back fire. Jude and Damon were fantastic together, I absolutely loved this, great writing, great characters, and another to follow, what more could you ask for!
My chuckle from the story:- Quoting Damon to Jude, "Let's assume that no matter who is there, you'll be standing there dripping wet, looking like an idiot in lavender boxers with a great story to tell about how you always kayak in your skivvies."
Profile Image for Swarnakshi Sharma.
Author 1 book2 followers
July 21, 2020
5 stars for this author is never enough!

Clean up on aisle mine is the first book of 'A spy like me' series. Damon and Jude, oh my Lanta! I absolutely loved these two. The writing, as usual, is amazeballs with perfectly placed humor. Damon is a 'fixer' who is hired to retrieve a drug addict, save a cute furball, and 'help' Jude. Jude is just the best! He is the 'oddball' of his family and rebels quite fiercely which makes his dad admonish him all the time. Damon has tragedy in his past is haunted by it and Jude sees it in the little things that Damon does. Damon finds it unable to move on from his past life but with Jude in his life, he finds his life change. Little by little, Jude breaks the walls that Damon has created around his heart with his radiant personality and his humor.

With quirky and lovable characters, Ms. Logan has created a world of words that is absolutely beautiful. The writing is impeccable as always and keeps the reader on the edge with elements of danger and mystery. The ending is HFN with a beautiful sneak peek from book #2. The author delivered exactly what they promised with the teasers and the blurb.

Both Damon and Jude have their own demons and dreams with little to no way of resolving those. They are opposites of each other in some ways but complete the other well. I feel that the story could have been a little less dramatic but still, it made me laugh, cry, and sympathize with the characters.

The story is really interesting and so are the characters. I've mentioned it before that I never miss the 'warning' part of the book. I really hope that we meet our beloved FBI and ATF guys in this series too.

Bottom line: I would totally recommend this book to all those who love a slow friendship to romance, hurt/comfort trope with some action scenes on the side. If you love and live for quirky characters, have a yearning for some humor, and lots of hot sex, then pick up a 'clean up on aisle mine' ;) and get ready to meet some beautiful characters!

✬✬✬✬✬
Profile Image for Anabela.M..
959 reviews15 followers
July 7, 2020
Don't laugh and don't ask me why, but I expected something different from this book. Maybe Jude being a rich, spoiled, bratty young man who needed a steady older man, who also happened to have a steady, heavy disciplinary hand?

What I actually found was two men that, for different reasons, were equally troubled and lost. Both with secrets, so many layers and hidden sides of their personalities that they kept surprising me and each other all through the book. Damon and Jude were so different they seemed an unlikely couple, and I loved how the author convinced me that they absolutely could belong with each other, that they fit perfectly together. Well, maybe a glimpse of how incredible they could be, more to come soon. Can't wait!

Profile Image for Natasha Lynn Harris.
1,976 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2020
3.5 stars

New to me author...

Action was kind of light for a spy book, but the development of the relationship between Damon and Jude was good. The side characters are well developed, I think there is potential if the action picks up
Profile Image for R.
2,149 reviews
July 4, 2020
Jude doesn’t make his father angry on purpose, it just happens that way. His father is a senator and doesn’t approve of Jude’s lifestyle (don’t be gay, don’t be obvious, stay out of the press, and above all don’t be gay). He goes to great lengths to try and control his son, so much so that he he has him abducted. Damon’s job is to keep Jude out of the limelight. Damon’s job is not to fall for his abductee.

This book is classic Patricia Logan. Hot guys, hot sex, a little light on the action though. I think she was introducing Jude gradually to his future life with Damon. I’m looking forward to meeting Jude’s mom and so hope Leah finds someone to love. This book ends with a HFN. Next one will be out soon.

I received an arc of this book.
3,628 reviews38 followers
July 12, 2020
I am so glad that this is part of a series because we need to have to spend more time with Damon and Jude!

We know that politics can get messy, especially when homophobia is at the root of a campaign. Family ties aren't enough to stop the spewing of hatred or the length a politician will go to keep his drive to the top unfettered.

So you get someone to kidnap and silence the threat...and what could go wrong? Let's see, a second and third and fourth kidnapping to start. Plus one dog napping. Lots of chase scenes. Shots fired.
And romance!

A fast paced story with two guys who are meant to be together. And then a future to plan.

Settle in and enjoy yourself!
Profile Image for Sue.
202 reviews12 followers
July 17, 2020
Ms. Logan sure knows how to weave an adventure tale! I couldnt put this book down! I floved this book and cannot wait for more!!
1,499 reviews8 followers
July 17, 2020
I started this book and was instantly drawn into it. Damon is a fixer that does anything, pretty much, that he's hired to do. We met his best friend and the focus is on Damon. Then Jude is introduced and we get to see that he really just wants to live his life in his own way but his father keeps trying to keep him in a box. As Damn "retrieves" Jude, he soon realizes that not everything is what it appeared to be. The dialogue is great, story line fascinating, and characters are incredible. I really enjoyed this book and can see that the series will be a fascinating one.
Profile Image for WycEd Reader.
2,384 reviews40 followers
July 23, 2020


Check out our full post for CLEAN UP ON AISLE MINE on Wicked Reads.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
This is the first book in a new series and a new author for me... but I have already lined up a couple more to read when I have time. I will definitely be looking out for the next book, as I am very attached to Damon and Jude – as well as Leah and Tom.

Damon has a sad past, and now works in a non-governmental fixer role, but we get the idea of it being both very serious, in what he does and the contacts he can call all, but also rather funny, because of the crazy places he gets his briefings. I am looking forward to finding out a bit more about exactly what the deal is there! One of his jobs is keeping a senator's gay son out of the limelight as he is threatening his reelection campaign. Well, this job changes everything in Damon's life, and all for the better. As we watch it play out, and get to know both men and just how innately good they both are, we get a great action adventure and a hot and steamy romance too.

I am not going to say much more, other than it is well written, the characters are extremely hot, intelligent, calm, patient, and even get the concept of communication being a good idea!! I am so happy that there is more to come – the good news is that we are not exactly left on a cliffhanger, but most certainly at a point where if the next book were available, I would have read it before coming to write my review.


Sarah – ☆☆☆
This is the story of a former CIA agent who is hired to control a senator’s wild son on the eve of an election. But both Damon and Jude are a little more complicated than anyone expected, and sparks soon fly between the two men.

Damon remains a mystery for much of the first half of this book. His job seems morally dubious and more than a little dangerous – but his relationship with Leah is so gentle it’s difficult to understand him as a true mercenary. Similarly, Jude’s party boy lifestyle doesn’t quite ring true when we see him with various friends and lovers. Readers get to know both men properly as they slowly get to know each other. I don’t feel like the character development is particularly deep or meaningful here but both men are more than they first seem.

I’m disappointed with the quality of the writing in this story. I first reviewed a Patricia Logan book several years ago and I’ve enjoyed many of the author’s books since. The language in this story feels choppy and the rambling story feels unedited in comparison to earlier writing. The characters and the central romance feel underdeveloped and there are continuity errors – for example, Leah is wearing Daisy Dukes on one page and a short dress two pages later. I also found the character of Leah problematic – some of the language used to describe her isn’t completely acceptable in 2020 and she feels like an uncomfortable compilation of trans clichés used to create a character more Drag Race than believable human. Boomer authors really need to think twice before adding trans characters for entertainment value.

Parts of this story are good fun and the action makes for a fast-paced read. Unfortunately, as a longtime fan of Patricia Logan, I’ve come to expect more polished writing from the author and this just didn’t quite work for me.

Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

Wicked Reads Review Team
Profile Image for AshPenny37 .
1,059 reviews5 followers
July 9, 2020
Don't you just love a series opener by an author whose work you already love? I'm a long time fan of Patricia Logan, so getting to read book 1 for a new couple is an absolute treat. Clean Up On Aisle Mine introduces us to Damon, a professional fixer, and Jude, an artist. 

Despite the unorthodox way in which they meet, Damon and Jude have an instant chemistry which is only magnified with them having to share living space for a while...I do like the forced proximity trope. Damon, the ex-CIA covert operative, is pretty much a loner with one main friend (Leah) in the picture for most of the book as he's still getting over a past tragedy, but he's a rough diamond. At the start, whilst he's getting used to 'peopling' again, he's quick to blow up in anger but also quick to sooth & apologise. Then, once the floodgates open, he proves himself to be open, loyal and ready to live and love again. Jude, meanwhile, is pretty much the epitome of trust fund baby. He's the son of a politically ambitious but homophobic father and brother to a man equally as hateful. The only family support he gets is from his mother so, until he meets Damon, Jude makes it his business to live the kind of lifestyle that does nothing but annoy his father and brother. He, too, has layers; showing that he has principles and a desire to connect with something more important than the liberal club life. What is absolutely clear from the beginning, however, is that these two men belong together. Yes, there's definitely insta going on here, but it is so sweet!

I like the storyline in Clean Up On Aisle Mine, though it's a bit of a change of pace for Patricia Logan. It's not that we don't get the kind of continuous action we've seen in previous series...there are definitely scenes where the pace picks up and there's significant peril; just not relentlessly from the get go. Damon is a different kind of hero, though. He has to consider how he achieves his work goals with as little fuss as possible, so that doesn't lend itself to situations where he could go in all guns blazing. This gives us more of an opportunity to see the MCs' relationship develop, though. I also love Damon's relationship with Leah. She is an awesome side character and a fiercely loyal friend.

Overall, I totally enjoyed this book and I already cannot wait for the second book in the A Spy Like Me series. 5*

An ARC was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Xanthe.
2,583 reviews53 followers
July 12, 2020
**4.5 **
I really loved the plot of the story and the job that Damon does. Being a fixer allows him to work in a way that he's familiar with (ex army/CIA) but but less within the confines of the law. This is how the MC's come together when Jude's father wants him kept out of the spotlight as he's running his Senate campaign.
Their histories, Damon's heartbreaking loss and Jude's homophobic father, has made it hard for both men for make connections but from the moment that Damon takes Jude hostage, there's a spark between them which is the biggest surprise to Damon as no one has done that in years. The hostage idea soon turns into a situation that works for them both as Jude chooses to stay with Damon and takes notice the other work that Damon goes off to do, even taking a strong enough interest that he helps out. A lot of emotion burns for both men with nerves, feelings of inadequacy and fears for the future at the front of their minds. It's not just the relationship that keeps the story going with several of Damon's jobs bringing action and danger to both men.
There are several great characters that we meet along the way, my favourite being Leah, Damon's best friend, someone he served with and has been his rock throughout his troubles.
The way the author writes it comes across as a slow burn romance but they actually connect emotionally and then physically after only a few days. I was quickly drawn into the story, really wanting know more of them as individuals as well as a possible couple, which is always a sign of a wonderfully written book. That being said, wasn't too sure on the ending as I was left with several unanswered questions but that does leave me wanting more and awaiting the next book in the series.
Definitely a recommended read and looking forward to the next installment.
I received an ARC and am happily giving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Beth.
2,983 reviews28 followers
July 15, 2020
I really enjoyed the Death and Destruction series by this author so I was looking forward to this book which seemed to be of a similar vein. I was not disappointed. The book has several elements to recommend it: compelling main characters, a slow build romance storyline, fun action sequences, danger, mystery, interesting secondary characters and someone you want to throat punch!

The MCs here are former CIA operative and now “fixer” Damon and Jude,the gay, playboy, artist son of a conservative Republican US Senator up for re-election. Their paths cross when Damon is hired to convince Jude to behave himself and get with the program to help his father’s campaign along. (That part stretched credulity a bit. Damon was just supposed to have a chat with Jude and accomplish what his father and brother had been unable to do?!) Amazingly Damon is able to convince Jude to stay at his loft and out of the reach of paparazzi. Things move along from there.

The writing is crisp and clever. The story arc is well paced as is the character development. We get to know these men as they get to know each other and understand that each is not what they appear to be. Helping that along is Damon’s best, and only, friend Leah.

The story is compelling and contains some sharp pointy sticks jabbed at today’s politics. There are interesting tidbits laid out that will no doubt become important in future books in the series. A big mystery is left up in the air so that will obviously come back into focus in future books. The ending for Jude and Damon is a HFN as the series will continue with the, as the main characters again.

This was a very enjoyable read that I did in one sitting as it kept me that engaged in the story. Strongly recommend.

**I voluntarily read an ARC and this is my unbiased opinion.**
Profile Image for DebbieReadsBooks.
2,825 reviews52 followers
July 15, 2020
Independent reviewer for Gay Romance Reviews, I was gifted my copy of this book.

Damon does the jobs, takes the money and moves on. Kidnapping a son of a senator is just another job but something about Jude does things to Damon, things he thought long gone from him. Does he really want Jude in his life?

I really enjoyed this!

I found it an easy read, if somewhat emotional in places.

The history Damon has with Leah, his best friend, was different, and one I did not see coming. You knew something bad had happened to Damon's wife and daughter, just not what exactly. Not till Damon tells Jude and that fact in itself was shocking enough. Damon did NOT talk about them, not even to Leah but telling Jude after a few days?? Told you a huge amount about Damon and what he feels for Jude.

Because Damon DOES feel, he really did not think he could, and it throws him for a loop. One he doesn't really want to tie up, but when something happenes to Leah and then to Jude, Damon pulls that loop so flipping tight, he ain't never gonna get it undone!

Both Jude and Damon have a say, I didn't think that was the case to start with, since it is a while before Jude is given a voice, so I was mighty pleased about that. Emotional, yes. Difficult topics, yes, but all very well written.

There was just one thing that niggled. I didn't get the relevance of the title to the book. Maybe I missed it, I dunno. Just didn't get that lightbulb moment you get with titles from time to time!

I enjoyed this, greatly. First I've read of Ms Logan, but I look forward to reading more, especially as this appears to be the first in a series for these guys.

4 good solid stars

**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,968 reviews213 followers
July 17, 2020


Amazon

Damon's a fixer of sorts, so when his newest client hires him to "fix" his situation with his son, Damon certainly doesn't expect to fall for the son he has to take to keep out of the spotlight of his father running for office.



Jude's out and proud personality isn't appreciated by his jerk of a father, so when the hot guy his father hires to manage him, takes him and they are forced into close quarters together, whew the sparks fly! Damon's got lots of baggage, though, so starting something with the man won't be easy, nor will it be easy when people come out of the woodwork to cause trouble. Will Damon be able to protect him?



I loved these two together. They mesh perfectly together, understand each other in ways neither expected. The emotions are high at times, and their chemistry is seriously hot, and there's enough action to move the story along, but not to overwhelm the relationship. And though there's only an HFN, it's set up to make this into a whole series, one I will definitely be reading.

ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for an honest review.

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2,287 reviews6 followers
July 17, 2020
Damon Suede is a former CIA operative who now lend his services as a fixer. Our first introduction to his work was having to find a wealthy family's drug addicted daughter. Hi handler takes him through the ringer just to obtain the classified information for his jobs. Much to his chagrin and her amusement. There is always that one job to change your life.

Jude Chenoweth is the son of a conservative Senator and things get hairy during an election year. Jude has never been shy about being true to himself. Having been born into wealth, he is expected to be the typical definition of wild child and arrogance. Jude does not disappoint, to an extent. His family is not too keen on the idea so the unthinkable is done. To keep him from compromising public scandal, he's attained a new sitter. Not one he wanted by the way.

As Jude and Damon are in a forced proximity to one another, each man learns that outward appearances aren't what they seem. Damon's past made him the man he is today and Jude ends up not being the spoiled, rich kid as initially represented.


Each MC and supporting character were perfectly intertwined. The backgrounds weren't left unfinished. "Rescuing family members to furballs." One of many lines that had me laughing.

Be ready to enjoy the first book in the series from beginning to end. Can't wait for the second.


**I received this ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for my honest feedback.**
Profile Image for Didi.
1,535 reviews86 followers
Read
July 18, 2020
I’m a newbie to Patricia Logan’s books and what drew me to this one was the blurb. Moreover, CLEAN UP ON AISLE MINE is a start to a new series so I thought I wouldn’t flounder about (much) by picking this title out. I thought it was a fun enough tale to follow, with some notes or what have you.

Damon was a former CIA operative who lost his child and daughter when he had been en-route home from an assignment. Now a fixer he elected way less dangerous cases - basically cleaning up after people’s messes. Jude was one of his ‘assignment’ who accepting his offer of personal hideout at his place. Before long, Jude got entangled in Damon’s business - personal and professionally.

Frankly, I was expecting a more action-packed tale, but what did I know! The book chronicled Damon and Jude’s days - the cases Damon took and Jude’s shenanigans - prior to their meeting and continued on from there. It was rather uneventful even with Damon’s various cases and his very energetic former Marine best friend, Leah, on the mix. Leah was a force and interesting character for sure. Perhaps in the long run, she would impart more to the series than what shown here.

Jude struck me as spoiled and wanton chap initially though he grew on me. The overall tone of the story seemed that both men - Damon and Jude - were beautiful specimen of men and everyone and everything lusted after them on first sight. Unrealistic perhaps, but people can dream and they were the lead characters after all.

Damon was a (former) spy with conscience and he was rather cute about it. I certainly didn’t begrudge his not-blood-thirsty tendency preference of his current profession, but I did feel he wasn’t particularly sharp or vigilant if not downright careless.

It might be the lead up to more to come in “A Spy Like Me” series, but the sudden disruption to Damon’s life and - for all his supposedly superb network - him having zilch as to what it really meant and the cost it had to his life (and peace) irritated me no end. All in all, this was an okay ride for me - I might not keen on part of it but I still found it enjoyable nonetheless. Who knows, I might fare better when the next installment is released!


Copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,718 reviews48 followers
July 16, 2020
I was not sure about this book, to be honest. I liked the part in the blurb about an ex CIA operative who was now taking on all kinds of "fixer" jobs from pets to problem children. I was not too sure about Jude, however, I tend to be put off by the arrogant kids of politicians who seem set on poking their parents in the eye. In fact, about the only one I really enjoyed in that vein in The Husband Gambit by L.A. Witt where the parental politician was so hateful it was a pleasure to see him get his comeuppance. I am pleased to report, however, that my apprehension was misplaced. This is a really good book! Jude was not the arrogant jerk I feared he might be and the combination of him with Damon was wonderful. Each of them has significant emotional issues to deal with and together they find the strength to do that. I was glad that the major action came later in the book, after we had a chance to get to know the two MCs well and like them as a couple. The timing of everything was just right and I can't wait for the next entry in this series to see how things wrap up.
Profile Image for Lindsay Hardin.
750 reviews
July 6, 2020
This book has a much different vibe than previous books I’ve read by the author. The usual action and adventure are present with a strong storyline and two amazing main characters. However, the heavy hitting action that this author is known for doesn’t occur until later in the book.
The first meeting between Jude and Damon is unique and quite different than any other introduction between main characters. It sets up a very intriguing dynamic that really works for them. Both men have plenty of secrets and mystique surrounding them and they are very complex emotionally though we seem to only scratch the surface in this book. There is much to learn about these two very different men. The world setting takes precedence in this novel and is very detail oriented and introduces some intriguing side characters that will play heavily into the overall arc of this series.
This was a lot of fun to read and is a bit lighter and funnier than some of the author’s previous series I’ve read. It’s a refreshing change and has me excited to get further into the lives of Jude and Damon.
Profile Image for Fay MMBookworm.
3,159 reviews70 followers
July 11, 2020
A great start for the book. Jude has to jumps through hoops just to get his assignments from Trixie. Yah Judes father was a piece of work and definitely bring out the strong emotions. Damon and Jude's first meeting didn't really go well and would be in deep doo doos for Damon. The story progresses and with the two meshing together. I really liked the scenes that comes next with the mission's. Leah is real cool to and definitely loves her colours.. Like the authors other stories there's always action and scenes hot chemistry. The chemistry between Damon and Jude is gorgeous which I loved. A great ending for a HFN with their story to continue to a another book.

Damon hated spiders and worked for Trixie helping find and helping people in whatever situations there in.. And his friend Leah and the magic candles for Damon just might be a premonition.
Jude 28, his father was running a campaign for a politics position and drags Jude unwillingly to toe the line.
Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,542 reviews46 followers
July 8, 2020
I loved Damon and Jude. Damon was a fixer and Jude was the famous son of a senator. Damon is hired to ensure that Jude is out of the limelight. He is out and proud. His father and brother cannot stand his lifestyle!! Jude agrees to stay with Damon to hide. Damon had some horrible things happen in his past that he could not forgive himself for. He needed Jude to help him get past his past. Loved all the side characters, especially Leah! This was such a good story!! Could not put it down!!
I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Joyfully Jay.
9,314 reviews526 followers
July 13, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.

3 stars


Clean Up on Aisle Mine is the first book in a “spy” series, and I was looking forward to high-tech ops and gritty situations. I don’t think this book hit those expectations. Jude is initially Damon’s “prisoner” for a short conversation, but Damon’s quick to morph that situation into more of a custodial arrangement, where Jude can simply disappear from the limelight and lay low in Damon’s loft to keep his dad’s pressure off. Jude agrees, feeling suddenly—and inexplicably—loyal to his dirtbag father. And captivated by Damon. For me, this was a bit low brow attraction, and that fit with Damon’s persona. He’s not a high-profile guy, and his CIA experiences are really less than impressive.

Read Veronica’s review in its entirety here.


Profile Image for Anna Torres.
388 reviews10 followers
July 15, 2020
Close proximity do really make things either awkward or interesting.

When Damon ended up taking care of Jude so that he’ll not be caught in compromising situations by the numerous paparazzis on his tail due to the fact that it is reelection year for his father, the senator, Damon never thought it would become more.

Jude has always been proud of who he is, he never shied away from showing his true colors even if his father and older brother thinks it is too much. He just wanted to live his life. Being cooped up with Damon for a long period of time is becoming more of a temptation rather than a cumbersome situation.

An unexpected love story from two people who never thought of finding it from such a situation.



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