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Exposed
A survival gay romance
Sometimes salvation comes from the most unlikely hero.
When Tate Gillespie is marked for death for a crime he didn’t commit, his life crumbles. In a world where ‘justice’ is meted out by a relentless military force, he’s going to need more than a mythical guardian angel. His life down to seconds, he’s saved by the mysterious X, a knife-wielding man he's never even met before. But who is X? Is he the man who threatens and kills without a second thought? Or the strangely gentle man who only seems to act that way around Tate?
X is a shadow. A wraith. A man who flits through the city virtually unseen. He’s got no time for people when knives are far more reliable. X does have one weakness though—the man he's been keeping safe for years who doesn't even know it. He'd burn the whole world to keep him alive. But what he won't do is stake his claim. Tate’s not his and he needs to remember that, no matter how close they might become.
With the military in hot pursuit, they’re going to need to rely on X’s skills to keep them both alive. Tate’s feelings are growing with every hour they spend together, but X is a tough nut to crack. Can two people from very different backgrounds really find common ground? Or will one of the many perils they face throughout their long journey drive them apart?
It’s all about survival. Not love. Isn’t it?
Exposed is a 132k action/adventure story featuring two men who couldn’t be more opposite.
Sometimes salvation comes from the most unlikely hero.
When Tate Gillespie is marked for death for a crime he didn’t commit, his life crumbles. In a world where ‘justice’ is meted out by a relentless military force, he’s going to need more than a mythical guardian angel. His life down to seconds, he’s saved by the mysterious X, a knife-wielding man he's never even met before. But who is X? Is he the man who threatens and kills without a second thought? Or the strangely gentle man who only seems to act that way around Tate?
X is a shadow. A wraith. A man who flits through the city virtually unseen. He’s got no time for people when knives are far more reliable. X does have one weakness though—the man he's been keeping safe for years who doesn't even know it. He'd burn the whole world to keep him alive. But what he won't do is stake his claim. Tate’s not his and he needs to remember that, no matter how close they might become.
With the military in hot pursuit, they’re going to need to rely on X’s skills to keep them both alive. Tate’s feelings are growing with every hour they spend together, but X is a tough nut to crack. Can two people from very different backgrounds really find common ground? Or will one of the many perils they face throughout their long journey drive them apart?
It’s all about survival. Not love. Isn’t it?
Exposed is a 132k action/adventure story featuring two men who couldn’t be more opposite.
334 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 20, 2020
211 people are currently reading
1321 people want to read
About the author
H.L. Day
48 books498 followersH.L Day is a teacher and a writer. She enjoys writing far too many different sub genres to stick to one thing so writes everything from rom-coms to post-apocalyptic sci-fi. It's just the way her brain works. H.L Day lives in the UK with her elderly black cat that she accidentally stole from her next door neighbour.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 244 reviews
October 9, 2023
Reread - October 2023
****************************************************
Audiobook - 5+++++ stars. Anderson Richards is a new narrator to me and he killed it. Such an amazing voice performer.
Story - 4.25 dystopian stars
I ended up loving this more than I thought I would. Thank you Lyn for putting this on my radar.
The writing was solid and flowed so well, it was easy to follow and fall in love with the story.
The characters: X - OMG, I loved this shadow of a man. Mysterious, lethal and sometimes funny man. Naming a character X and making him sound like X is really amazing.
Tate - I ended up liking him eventually, he is one bubbly, foot meet mouth character. He can be annoying at times but he is alright.
The connection between the characters pulled me in. The sex was hot but at times these guys were just unbelievable.
Overall, I had fun with this dystopian story.
****************************************************
Audiobook - 5+++++ stars. Anderson Richards is a new narrator to me and he killed it. Such an amazing voice performer.
Story - 4.25 dystopian stars
I ended up loving this more than I thought I would. Thank you Lyn for putting this on my radar.
The writing was solid and flowed so well, it was easy to follow and fall in love with the story.
The characters: X - OMG, I loved this shadow of a man. Mysterious, lethal and sometimes funny man. Naming a character X and making him sound like X is really amazing.
Tate - I ended up liking him eventually, he is one bubbly, foot meet mouth character. He can be annoying at times but he is alright.
The connection between the characters pulled me in. The sex was hot but at times these guys were just unbelievable.
Overall, I had fun with this dystopian story.
October 13, 2023
*4.5* I found this story mindlessly scrolling through KU suggested reads. What a hidden treasure!!
Futuristic/dystopian setting
Gay romance
Dual pov
Stalking to extreme
Perfect character growth
Sex & intimacy
Graphic violence
Excellent HEA
X is a knife-wielding badass, who just might be a stalker.
Tate is a white collar, follow-all-the-rules kind of guy.
Tate gets himself into some trouble, luckily X is close by.
In accordance with the laws of this city, you have been found guilty. Your sentence is execution to be carried out immediately.
These two personalities do not go together AT ALL. Which is why they made the best couple.
X was all fluid lines and masculine grace, and I was more like a baby elephant crashing through the undergrowth. I wondered at what point he’d start regretting saving me.
I thought that X would be my favorite character, but Tate stole my heart. He is terrified, but also remains cautiously optimistic. Plus he’s annoyingly adorable…
"You're as still as a corpse. Your body language isn't exactly screaming enjoyment. You could… you know, wrap your arm around me. Make me feel like it’s consensual. I feel like I’m cuddle-raping you."
Futuristic/dystopian setting
Gay romance
Dual pov
Stalking to extreme
Perfect character growth
Sex & intimacy
Graphic violence
Excellent HEA
X is a knife-wielding badass, who just might be a stalker.
Tate is a white collar, follow-all-the-rules kind of guy.
Tate gets himself into some trouble, luckily X is close by.
In accordance with the laws of this city, you have been found guilty. Your sentence is execution to be carried out immediately.
These two personalities do not go together AT ALL. Which is why they made the best couple.
X was all fluid lines and masculine grace, and I was more like a baby elephant crashing through the undergrowth. I wondered at what point he’d start regretting saving me.
I thought that X would be my favorite character, but Tate stole my heart. He is terrified, but also remains cautiously optimistic. Plus he’s annoyingly adorable…
"You're as still as a corpse. Your body language isn't exactly screaming enjoyment. You could… you know, wrap your arm around me. Make me feel like it’s consensual. I feel like I’m cuddle-raping you."
December 12, 2021
3 stars.
🔪 i was actually absolutely loving this book in the beginning and the middle, but then it got draggy as hell in the last 30ish %. took me a while to finish it.
🔪 regardless of the fact that it got draggy for me, i still think that this is a pretty solid dystopian read.
🔪 the mc X was this obsessive, protective, mysterious, lone wolf assassin, who liked to spend all his free time stalking the other mc Tate.
🔪 the whole stalker premise was great. X was my kinda man, even if he was a stalker lmao. he had his reasons i guess… if i had a stalker, i’d want him to be like X.
🔪 one day, Tate happens to get himself into a life or death situation… obviously, X had to step in and, therefore, finally reveal himself. the whole story basically sets off from there.
🔪 the majority of the book is spent on the mcs travelling together. lots of adventures, walking, running, staying in random ass places. i think the adventure was just a little too long tbh lol, that’s why it got draggy.
🔪 this had some pretty cool action scenes at times. X really loves his knives. those damn knives were like the side characters tbh.
🔪 this was almost insta-loveish in a way. i know X stalked Tate for a loooong time, so i get how he could have fallen for him, even from a distance, but Tate said i love you back soooo quickly… too quickly for my liking.
🔪 anyways, this was pretty good overall. i’m definitely curious about reading more books from this author, even if i didn’t end up loving this as much as i wanted to.
🔪 i was actually absolutely loving this book in the beginning and the middle, but then it got draggy as hell in the last 30ish %. took me a while to finish it.
🔪 regardless of the fact that it got draggy for me, i still think that this is a pretty solid dystopian read.
🔪 the mc X was this obsessive, protective, mysterious, lone wolf assassin, who liked to spend all his free time stalking the other mc Tate.
🔪 the whole stalker premise was great. X was my kinda man, even if he was a stalker lmao. he had his reasons i guess… if i had a stalker, i’d want him to be like X.
🔪 one day, Tate happens to get himself into a life or death situation… obviously, X had to step in and, therefore, finally reveal himself. the whole story basically sets off from there.
🔪 the majority of the book is spent on the mcs travelling together. lots of adventures, walking, running, staying in random ass places. i think the adventure was just a little too long tbh lol, that’s why it got draggy.
🔪 this had some pretty cool action scenes at times. X really loves his knives. those damn knives were like the side characters tbh.
🔪 this was almost insta-loveish in a way. i know X stalked Tate for a loooong time, so i get how he could have fallen for him, even from a distance, but Tate said i love you back soooo quickly… too quickly for my liking.
🔪 anyways, this was pretty good overall. i’m definitely curious about reading more books from this author, even if i didn’t end up loving this as much as i wanted to.
October 5, 2021
Audio – 5+++++ Anderson Richards …WOW! His performance was so on point that I must recommend the audio for maximum enjoyment of this story!!! H.L. Day definitely honored her wonderful story by choosing the perfect narrator! Thank you!!!
Anderson Richards' performance as X was so reminiscent of a menacing alpha Jason Stratham!! Drool-worthy to the max!! Gaaahhhh!!
Story – 5++ Yummy Dystopian MM Stars!
I need more stories like this. The way the author wrote X’s character epitomized what I want in a dark antihero. He was emotionless, dark, and brooding except when it came to Tate. And Tate..fuck! I loved Tate because it didn’t take him long to just accept X’s darkness and not only love him, but be possessive and protective of him. I loved these guys so hard! The story isn’t sex saturated, but what scenes there are, are hawt AF!! I want their story to continue as a series.
There were parts of the story that were a bit slow and had me wishing for a bit more action. But the narrator kept me from feeling any of the lull I might have, had I read instead of listened to the book.
Anderson Richards' performance as X was so reminiscent of a menacing alpha Jason Stratham!! Drool-worthy to the max!! Gaaahhhh!!
Story – 5++ Yummy Dystopian MM Stars!
I need more stories like this. The way the author wrote X’s character epitomized what I want in a dark antihero. He was emotionless, dark, and brooding except when it came to Tate. And Tate..fuck! I loved Tate because it didn’t take him long to just accept X’s darkness and not only love him, but be possessive and protective of him. I loved these guys so hard! The story isn’t sex saturated, but what scenes there are, are hawt AF!! I want their story to continue as a series.
There were parts of the story that were a bit slow and had me wishing for a bit more action. But the narrator kept me from feeling any of the lull I might have, had I read instead of listened to the book.
October 10, 2021
I never thought, in my entire short life of 27 seven years old, that I would say: girl this stalker is so fineeeeee, so good, he is a good stalker, no doubt.
Contrary to popular belief thanks to Edward Cullen's stalking tendencies, stalking is not right, it comes from sick minds right?... And then Exposed comes along. 🤣🤣🤣
And I'm like: OK X, you can stalk me ANY TIME you want darling. *bats her eyelashes* 💅🏻💅🏻
Because seriously, he can, he will only protect me 🤡🤡🤡 and I'm fine with it. 💅🏻💅🏻💅🏻
But anyways, there is a whole story apart from the stalking, which happens in a post-apocalyptic world of some sorts, where all the countries went through a war and it destroyed the cities, which are now controlled by a group that calls themselves pacific, but they impart justice wich means: if you did something wrong, your dead, no trials, no innocent until proven guilty, nada, you are just dead.
And that's where our main guy finds himself, blamed for something he didn't do so he's about to die, but no worries: X the stalker is ready to help!!! Grrr, and he does, taking them into a long journey of survival, hardships and danger, literally.
I enjoyed this a lot, it was a very new and fresh story, it did drag somewhere but not enough to bother me. One complaint: the sex was too short 😁😁
But overall, a good one. 🥰🥰
Contrary to popular belief thanks to Edward Cullen's stalking tendencies, stalking is not right, it comes from sick minds right?... And then Exposed comes along. 🤣🤣🤣
And I'm like: OK X, you can stalk me ANY TIME you want darling. *bats her eyelashes* 💅🏻💅🏻
Because seriously, he can, he will only protect me 🤡🤡🤡 and I'm fine with it. 💅🏻💅🏻💅🏻
But anyways, there is a whole story apart from the stalking, which happens in a post-apocalyptic world of some sorts, where all the countries went through a war and it destroyed the cities, which are now controlled by a group that calls themselves pacific, but they impart justice wich means: if you did something wrong, your dead, no trials, no innocent until proven guilty, nada, you are just dead.
And that's where our main guy finds himself, blamed for something he didn't do so he's about to die, but no worries: X the stalker is ready to help!!! Grrr, and he does, taking them into a long journey of survival, hardships and danger, literally.
I enjoyed this a lot, it was a very new and fresh story, it did drag somewhere but not enough to bother me. One complaint: the sex was too short 😁😁
But overall, a good one. 🥰🥰
January 15, 2021
Exposed by H.L Day is the first book this year to enter my favorites list, 5+ Stars .
Everything I desperately wanted in a romance novel delivered with a bow. Thank god for that because if I had to read one more generic MM romance, I might have committed unthinkable crimes against my kindle.
It’s set in a dystopian world, 2076. Martial law is declared, and people live in constant fear of their so called government.
Tate who lives in the “nice” part has his life completely altered when he finds himself accused of a crime he hadn’t committed. His guardian angel who saves him from eminent death is none other than his very dangerous knife obsessed stalker, X.
The story takes us through their escape from the city and their attempt to stay ahead of the DTP (Defenders of The Peace) who are hunting them down. The struggle is real and written so well, the perfect amount of information and sexual relief, tossed in there to alleviate, truly delivers. X and Tate had some serious chemistry, there is a little bit of kink but it’s not a dominant factor.
The relationship growth while they struggled to survive is so incredibly well done. I found myself completely falling in love with X. The dual point of view giving us glimpses of his thoughts since he’s more of a one-word kind of guy but his devotion and love for Tate shone through everything he did, every life he takes to keep Tate alive and safe.
Tate is more bubbly, talkative and barely keeping it together as he fumbles his way through a life so far from his previous one. But even quacking in fear he perseveres and his trust in X is incredibly sweet.
This story really goes full circle. We get insight into why X began looking after Tate from the shadows, to the love X has for Tate being reciprocated, to them surviving, finding a place safe from the terrors of DTP and them actually living their HEA on page. I felt complete at the end of this story, satisfied, happy, content and all the words.
HIGHLY recommend for those looking for an MM romance that’s not quite the norm. Personally I am going to delve into more of H.L Day’s work, I might have just found a new favorite author.
Everything I desperately wanted in a romance novel delivered with a bow. Thank god for that because if I had to read one more generic MM romance, I might have committed unthinkable crimes against my kindle.
It’s set in a dystopian world, 2076. Martial law is declared, and people live in constant fear of their so called government.
Tate who lives in the “nice” part has his life completely altered when he finds himself accused of a crime he hadn’t committed. His guardian angel who saves him from eminent death is none other than his very dangerous knife obsessed stalker, X.
The story takes us through their escape from the city and their attempt to stay ahead of the DTP (Defenders of The Peace) who are hunting them down. The struggle is real and written so well, the perfect amount of information and sexual relief, tossed in there to alleviate, truly delivers. X and Tate had some serious chemistry, there is a little bit of kink but it’s not a dominant factor.
The relationship growth while they struggled to survive is so incredibly well done. I found myself completely falling in love with X. The dual point of view giving us glimpses of his thoughts since he’s more of a one-word kind of guy but his devotion and love for Tate shone through everything he did, every life he takes to keep Tate alive and safe.
Tate is more bubbly, talkative and barely keeping it together as he fumbles his way through a life so far from his previous one. But even quacking in fear he perseveres and his trust in X is incredibly sweet.
This story really goes full circle. We get insight into why X began looking after Tate from the shadows, to the love X has for Tate being reciprocated, to them surviving, finding a place safe from the terrors of DTP and them actually living their HEA on page. I felt complete at the end of this story, satisfied, happy, content and all the words.
HIGHLY recommend for those looking for an MM romance that’s not quite the norm. Personally I am going to delve into more of H.L Day’s work, I might have just found a new favorite author.
February 22, 2024
Este livro foi tiro, porrada e bomba do início ao fim 🔥🔥🔥🔥 Adorei a adrenalina que a fuga dos personagens passou, X carregou essa história nas costas, foi o melhor personagem dessa dupla de fugitivos, o Tate foi um personagem legal, mas não tem como se comparar ao X que nos trouxe vários momentos interessantes e intrigantes. O motivo dele proteger o Tate foi como montar um quebra cabeça até chegar na revelação ( que me agradou e me convenceu). Foi um bom livro de ação do início ao fim, acho que esse mundo dystopico deveria ser mais explorado ( o que faltou no livro) foi fuga o tempo todo e isso ficou um pouco de lado, mas o resto não tenho do que reclamar.
March 3, 2024
This had all the ingredients for a really interesting story, I loved all the ideas here. Somehow the actual writing didn’t particularly compel me however. I found myself distracted often and skimming. I’m not sure why, maybe more telling than showing? Long wordy paragraphs? Something about the writing just felt flat despite the content being something I would normally love. I am still going to give this four stars though because I feel it deserves it and don’t think it belongs in 3 star territory. I’m happy to conclude it may just be me having an off day.
June 5, 2021
5 stars audio and story!!! Wow what a wonderful adventure this was!
January 28, 2021
This book has everything. Unique characters, remarkable world building, and an amazing mix of action, suspense and romance, the light knife and breath play was just the icing on the cake. It kept my interest from the first page to the last. Too much inner monologue usually bore me, but not this one, it kept the pace steady until action take over. This book has a great rollercoaster of events and feelings and situations, and when you think the journey ends, it doesn't. There were things that I questioned but they were relatively minor, it doesn't bother me at all. I loved X and Tate, I loved this book, Exposed is a long read but well worth the time.
August 29, 2020
The title. That cover... Now I'm reading Exposed, that really is X.
Audio-visual blog review
Reading feelings as I go.
Set in the future and definitely not Utopia.
Stalkerish, obsessive love interest. Always a winner.
Tate leaned in, pressing his lips tightly against Joseph's, their lips parting as they deepened the kiss.
I'd watched them kiss before. Hell, I'd watched them fuck, but never this close, and never with them knowing I was there.
I'm truly interested in/looking forward to know why X is besotted with Tate.
Militarised face-scanning, vaporising antagonists. Good to hate on.
The Terminator gets mentioned a lot but I keep thinking Snake Plissken (sans eye-patch) for the setting, or Todd (Soldier) for X for the intensity. I'm a Kurt Russell kind of gal. No matter, X is an alpha lead. I'm along for the whole setting and vibe of the book.
There's Action and a feeling of delicious foreboding pretty much from the beginning which has me hooked.
The foreboding has given way to a mix of intensity and sweet.
I laugh because Tate is an anxious rambler. He's nice, gives X a conscience - stop it, Tate - and X is this very romance-typical alpha male; he's badass to others but all smooshy for the man he's obsessively stalker-loved for a while. I respect that. Now it's getting more up close and personal let's see what happens. Bring it home, guys!
Feelings after I finished
This is a cracker of a read - survival, a bit of knife-play/like it rough kink. Some good old obsessive and possessive love, someone who thinks you are the most special person in the world and is willing to back that up - it's kill or be killed in this world, do or die, and X is our man. There's also plenty of well paced action with opposites attract too.
Exposed was a series of early morning reading stints. I had to steal the time and it was worth every sleepless night/tired day.
Audio-visual blog review
Reading feelings as I go.
Set in the future and definitely not Utopia.
Stalkerish, obsessive love interest. Always a winner.
Tate leaned in, pressing his lips tightly against Joseph's, their lips parting as they deepened the kiss.
I'd watched them kiss before. Hell, I'd watched them fuck, but never this close, and never with them knowing I was there.
I'm truly interested in/looking forward to know why X is besotted with Tate.
Militarised face-scanning, vaporising antagonists. Good to hate on.
The Terminator gets mentioned a lot but I keep thinking Snake Plissken (sans eye-patch) for the setting, or Todd (Soldier) for X for the intensity. I'm a Kurt Russell kind of gal. No matter, X is an alpha lead. I'm along for the whole setting and vibe of the book.
There's Action and a feeling of delicious foreboding pretty much from the beginning which has me hooked.
The foreboding has given way to a mix of intensity and sweet.
I laugh because Tate is an anxious rambler. He's nice, gives X a conscience - stop it, Tate - and X is this very romance-typical alpha male; he's badass to others but all smooshy for the man he's obsessively stalker-loved for a while. I respect that. Now it's getting more up close and personal let's see what happens. Bring it home, guys!
Feelings after I finished
This is a cracker of a read - survival, a bit of knife-play/like it rough kink. Some good old obsessive and possessive love, someone who thinks you are the most special person in the world and is willing to back that up - it's kill or be killed in this world, do or die, and X is our man. There's also plenty of well paced action with opposites attract too.
Exposed was a series of early morning reading stints. I had to steal the time and it was worth every sleepless night/tired day.
February 9, 2025
5/5 ⭐️s - This book is the ultimate definition of the “I hate everyone but you” trope, and I ate it up. It reminded me so much of Soul Eater by Lily Mayne (one of my all-time favourite series)!
The Plot
The book is set in a 2075 dystopian world where people live in constant fear under a strict government, DTP (Defenders of the Peace), where even the smallest mistake can lead to death. Tate has a comfortable life with a good job in the nicer part of society, but one day, he’s accused of misconduct and sentenced to death. Enter X, a knife-wielding assassin from the slums, who’s been stalking Tate for the past 14 years. Tate has no idea who X is, but he has no choice but to run away with him to survive.
The Characters
☀️Tate
I love Tate so, so, so much. Normally, super optimistic characters can annoy me, but not Tate. He’s a ball of positivity but knows when to keep it down and follow orders. He’s always trying to lighten the mood with jokes and film references, but he’s no pushover. He stands his ground and demands answers when he needs to. Sweet and polite, yes, but he’s got a fiery side too!
🔪X
I’m sooo in love with him - it’s not even funny anymore. X is a lone wolf, ruthless and brutal. Killing is his job, and he does it without hesitation. If someone looks at him wrong, their survival chances are slim to none. But with Tate? X becomes a total protector. Tate is the only person he’s cared about for more than half his life. X lets Tate get away with everything and would do anything for him. Reading about X’s dedication to Tate has raised my standards for men to level 100 - if he’s not like this, I don’t want him. #needthat
➳ "I promise he'll be safe with me and that I'll defend him to my dying breath. That's the best I can do."
Their Relationship
This book is written in dual POV, so we get both Tate’s and X’s sides, and it just hits so hard emotionally. X has been secretly watching over Tate for 14 years (not in a creepy way) but just to make sure he’s safe. Whenever Tate was in trouble, X would help him in the background. Tate always thought he had a guardian angel watching over him, but it was X the whole time:
➳ "All these years people have been winding me up about having a secret guardian angel and I actually had one."
When X rescues Tate and they’re on the run, their relationship grows fast. X always puts Tate first - gives him the food, the only sleeping bag, even takes drugs to stay awake and watch over him. But X never tries to pursue Tate romantically (even though he’s been in love since he was a teen) because he doesn’t feel worthy. Tate’s an angel, X sees himself as a devil. Tate’s kind, X is ruthless. Tate comes from a respectable family, X was an orphan who grew up on the streets. To X, they just aren’t meant to be - Tate deserves better:
➳ “Me and you... we're from different worlds."
➳ “He was everything I wasn't: kind, caring, popular, always smiling. Tate had consumed my thoughts and my dreams for years. He'd been my reason for waking up in the morning.”
But as a reader, I felt in my bones that’s just not true!! Tate is the yin to X’s yang, the sunshine to his rainy day. Tate knows it, too!
➳ “we were perfect for each other, because we are, X. You're the yin to my yang.”
He quickly catches feelings for X (like, who wouldn’t?) after seeing how X risks his life and gives everything up for him. X hesitates at first, but Tate isn’t backing down. He fights for their relationship, which is perfect because it’s not one-sided - Tate loves X just as much:
➳ "Either we both lived, or we both died. There was no additional option."
➳ "I didn't give a damn if he scowled at everyone else. In fact, I'd positively encourage it. He was mine and mine alone."
Overall Thoughts
The plot is amazing, with tons of action scenes - not just romance. Their survival journey keeps you on the edge of your seat, but the romance has you kicking your feet too. This book has the perfect balance of everything I love. And the ending is chef’s kiss. I couldn’t be happier with it! I wouldn’t change a single thing…
➳ “One month living with him had been worth more than my entire life up to that point, and I knew that I'd never grow tired of him. I'd never had any desire to grow old and gray before. But now I did.”
The Plot
The book is set in a 2075 dystopian world where people live in constant fear under a strict government, DTP (Defenders of the Peace), where even the smallest mistake can lead to death. Tate has a comfortable life with a good job in the nicer part of society, but one day, he’s accused of misconduct and sentenced to death. Enter X, a knife-wielding assassin from the slums, who’s been stalking Tate for the past 14 years. Tate has no idea who X is, but he has no choice but to run away with him to survive.
The Characters
☀️Tate
I love Tate so, so, so much. Normally, super optimistic characters can annoy me, but not Tate. He’s a ball of positivity but knows when to keep it down and follow orders. He’s always trying to lighten the mood with jokes and film references, but he’s no pushover. He stands his ground and demands answers when he needs to. Sweet and polite, yes, but he’s got a fiery side too!
🔪X
I’m sooo in love with him - it’s not even funny anymore. X is a lone wolf, ruthless and brutal. Killing is his job, and he does it without hesitation. If someone looks at him wrong, their survival chances are slim to none. But with Tate? X becomes a total protector. Tate is the only person he’s cared about for more than half his life. X lets Tate get away with everything and would do anything for him. Reading about X’s dedication to Tate has raised my standards for men to level 100 - if he’s not like this, I don’t want him. #needthat
➳ "I promise he'll be safe with me and that I'll defend him to my dying breath. That's the best I can do."
Their Relationship
This book is written in dual POV, so we get both Tate’s and X’s sides, and it just hits so hard emotionally. X has been secretly watching over Tate for 14 years (not in a creepy way) but just to make sure he’s safe. Whenever Tate was in trouble, X would help him in the background. Tate always thought he had a guardian angel watching over him, but it was X the whole time:
➳ "All these years people have been winding me up about having a secret guardian angel and I actually had one."
When X rescues Tate and they’re on the run, their relationship grows fast. X always puts Tate first - gives him the food, the only sleeping bag, even takes drugs to stay awake and watch over him. But X never tries to pursue Tate romantically (even though he’s been in love since he was a teen) because he doesn’t feel worthy. Tate’s an angel, X sees himself as a devil. Tate’s kind, X is ruthless. Tate comes from a respectable family, X was an orphan who grew up on the streets. To X, they just aren’t meant to be - Tate deserves better:
➳ “Me and you... we're from different worlds."
➳ “He was everything I wasn't: kind, caring, popular, always smiling. Tate had consumed my thoughts and my dreams for years. He'd been my reason for waking up in the morning.”
But as a reader, I felt in my bones that’s just not true!! Tate is the yin to X’s yang, the sunshine to his rainy day. Tate knows it, too!
➳ “we were perfect for each other, because we are, X. You're the yin to my yang.”
He quickly catches feelings for X (like, who wouldn’t?) after seeing how X risks his life and gives everything up for him. X hesitates at first, but Tate isn’t backing down. He fights for their relationship, which is perfect because it’s not one-sided - Tate loves X just as much:
➳ "Either we both lived, or we both died. There was no additional option."
➳ "I didn't give a damn if he scowled at everyone else. In fact, I'd positively encourage it. He was mine and mine alone."
Overall Thoughts
The plot is amazing, with tons of action scenes - not just romance. Their survival journey keeps you on the edge of your seat, but the romance has you kicking your feet too. This book has the perfect balance of everything I love. And the ending is chef’s kiss. I couldn’t be happier with it! I wouldn’t change a single thing…
➳ “One month living with him had been worth more than my entire life up to that point, and I knew that I'd never grow tired of him. I'd never had any desire to grow old and gray before. But now I did.”
May 26, 2023
Original review August 2020:
I thoroughly enjoyed Exposed! I often shy away from rating and reviewing books with morally ambiguous characters but I liked this one so much I want to give it a quick shout out.
Post apocalyptic, dystopian worlds are always intriguing to me and I was completely immersed in this one. I picked it up the other night just after midnight thinking I’d read a chapter or two and go to sleep. Boy was I wrong about that! I was so drawn in that I couldn’t put it down until just after 5 am when I could no longer keep my eyes open. If I wasn’t so tired, I probably would have read it cover to cover in one sitting.
I was charmed by the dynamic between Tate and X and consumed by their harrowing, on the run, survival adventure, so much so that even though I did question some elements of the plot and felt there were parts that may have been a little too conveniently resolved, I’m still giving Exposed 5 stars overall.
Plot: 4-4.5 stars (I can’t decide! The things that I questioned were relatively minor and probably me just being compulsive and nit picky)
Level of enjoyment: 5+ stars
KU but I think I’m going to buy this one as well, I really enjoyed it and can easily see myself reading this one again.
Edited to add after reread May 2023:
I did end up buying this one back in 2020 and I’m really glad I did! I definitely enjoyed Exposed just as much the second time around. There was a point down the stretch at the end where I wished I was reading it for the first time again because the anxiety and tension were so delicious when I had no idea how it was going to play out. Would have loved to relive the gut wrenching tension of the first time.
Loved it! Note to future self: worth reading again for sure.
I thoroughly enjoyed Exposed! I often shy away from rating and reviewing books with morally ambiguous characters but I liked this one so much I want to give it a quick shout out.
Post apocalyptic, dystopian worlds are always intriguing to me and I was completely immersed in this one. I picked it up the other night just after midnight thinking I’d read a chapter or two and go to sleep. Boy was I wrong about that! I was so drawn in that I couldn’t put it down until just after 5 am when I could no longer keep my eyes open. If I wasn’t so tired, I probably would have read it cover to cover in one sitting.
I was charmed by the dynamic between Tate and X and consumed by their harrowing, on the run, survival adventure, so much so that even though I did question some elements of the plot and felt there were parts that may have been a little too conveniently resolved, I’m still giving Exposed 5 stars overall.
Plot: 4-4.5 stars (I can’t decide! The things that I questioned were relatively minor and probably me just being compulsive and nit picky)
Level of enjoyment: 5+ stars
KU but I think I’m going to buy this one as well, I really enjoyed it and can easily see myself reading this one again.
Edited to add after reread May 2023:
I did end up buying this one back in 2020 and I’m really glad I did! I definitely enjoyed Exposed just as much the second time around. There was a point down the stretch at the end where I wished I was reading it for the first time again because the anxiety and tension were so delicious when I had no idea how it was going to play out. Would have loved to relive the gut wrenching tension of the first time.
Loved it! Note to future self: worth reading again for sure.
September 27, 2022
The good
+ X's endless tolerance of everything Tate does
+ X's pining
+ X's respect for Tate and how he just wants what's best for him
+ X's extreme selflessness when it comes to Tate
+ Tate coming out of his shell and finding out X will let him get away with basically anything
+ Tate returning X's devotion
+ Tate taking good care of X's knives
+ The ending. I don't care how cheesy it was, it was perfect
The neutral
o I would have preferred had Tate's boyfriend sold him out or something, so his disattachment made more sense
The bad
- Nothing satisfying happened against the regime they escaped from
Quotes
x I vowed to do whatever it took to live long enough to take X out on that date. It would be worth it, just to see him scowling at everything.
x "I don't stalk people. I stalk you."
x That could be my mission for the next couple of days, shower him with declarations of love and watch him grow more and more uncomfortable.
x "Your hands are shaking." "All the best doctors shake. It's how you know they care."
This is still one of my favorite books. X is an amazing main character, and the way he indulges Tate is so sweet. Tate's trust in X is great to see, and the way their relationship progresses is just perfect. I would definitely recommend this book and I'll read it again for sure.
Read in 2021 and 2022. Bought a physical copy for my bookshelf.
+ X's endless tolerance of everything Tate does
+ X's pining
+ X's respect for Tate and how he just wants what's best for him
+ X's extreme selflessness when it comes to Tate
+ Tate coming out of his shell and finding out X will let him get away with basically anything
+ Tate returning X's devotion
+ Tate taking good care of X's knives
+ The ending. I don't care how cheesy it was, it was perfect
The neutral
o I would have preferred had Tate's boyfriend sold him out or something, so his disattachment made more sense
The bad
- Nothing satisfying happened against the regime they escaped from
Quotes
x I vowed to do whatever it took to live long enough to take X out on that date. It would be worth it, just to see him scowling at everything.
x "I don't stalk people. I stalk you."
x That could be my mission for the next couple of days, shower him with declarations of love and watch him grow more and more uncomfortable.
x "Your hands are shaking." "All the best doctors shake. It's how you know they care."
This is still one of my favorite books. X is an amazing main character, and the way he indulges Tate is so sweet. Tate's trust in X is great to see, and the way their relationship progresses is just perfect. I would definitely recommend this book and I'll read it again for sure.
Read in 2021 and 2022. Bought a physical copy for my bookshelf.
dnf
May 23, 2022DNF early on
When there is so much tell and so little show early in a story, it rarely ends well… for me. Moving on.
When there is so much tell and so little show early in a story, it rarely ends well… for me. Moving on.
September 15, 2020
4.5 stars - In this story, we meet Tate, a young man who lives in a time when the law is carried out by a military type force, when he is falsely accused of a crime. Unfortunately, in this world, Tate does not ever have a chance to explain his being in the wrong place at the wrong time, as those accused are merely executed out of existence on the spot.
Thankfully, at the last second, X shows up to save Tate and so begins their journey. What seems like a chance encounter is anything but, as X has been watching over Tate for many years after making a promise to Tate’s father long ago. Continuing to fulfill that promise, X and Tate go on the run from the “slums” where X lives to a life beyond that is rumored to exist. But the police force is constantly closing in on them. They encounter numerous obstacles along the way, but there are a few who offer just the help they need to continue on.
This pulls you in right away and submerses you into the world Tate and X must navigate. These guys were just perfect for each other even if X took some convincing. There is plenty of tension and excitement, and even though they seem to be total opposites, Tate has a slightly darker side that longs for what X can give him, just as X has a spot in his heart just made for Tate. X isn’t quite the hardened killer he makes out to be when it comes to Tate. Tate learns that pretty early on, and he definitely uses it to his advantage when he needs to.
I loved following these guys on their adventure/run for their lives and was rooting them on the entire way wanting them to take down anyone in their path to freedom. Just when you think they have found it, things aren’t as rosy as they seem and decisions must be made. But make them they did, and it pays off in the end. This was a longer story, but I savored it and took my time. If you like dystopian settings with interesting characters, you’ll surely want to give this one a go. I’ll definitely be on the lookout for more from Ms. Day in the future.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
September 1, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
5 stars
Author H.L. Day gives us a future dystopian world where the haves and have nots live just a few blocks apart and yet their worlds are vastly different, while secret police maintain the population and deliver law and order by vaporizing the guilty or anyone who stands in their way of dispatching their brand of justice, Tate and X live in different parts of the city. Tate is on one side of the wall, where life is simple, everyone has what they need, and people follow the rules. X lives in the slums, surrounded by filth and poverty where crime runs rampant and no one can escape the miserable existence they barely cling to every day. X moves in the shadows, keeping watch over Tate for reasons only he knows. He cannot admit to himself that Tate is something more than an obligation he will always meet, but the whores who look ever so slightly like Tate and who X demands use his name while X is with them realize that X is hiding something more.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
5 stars
Author H.L. Day gives us a future dystopian world where the haves and have nots live just a few blocks apart and yet their worlds are vastly different, while secret police maintain the population and deliver law and order by vaporizing the guilty or anyone who stands in their way of dispatching their brand of justice, Tate and X live in different parts of the city. Tate is on one side of the wall, where life is simple, everyone has what they need, and people follow the rules. X lives in the slums, surrounded by filth and poverty where crime runs rampant and no one can escape the miserable existence they barely cling to every day. X moves in the shadows, keeping watch over Tate for reasons only he knows. He cannot admit to himself that Tate is something more than an obligation he will always meet, but the whores who look ever so slightly like Tate and who X demands use his name while X is with them realize that X is hiding something more.
Read Sammy’s review in its entirety here.
August 20, 2020
X moves through the streets like a ghost. Armed to the teeth, always his eyes on Tate.
When Tate is threatened to be killed, X leaves the shadows and save Tate.
But the aggressors aren’t finished.
Let the hunt begin!
That was one bloody, freaking exciting, fast-paced read, with a lot of sexual tension.
On their run, we get the story behind it all. The killing X seems to have a soft spot, and Tate finds X irresistible. At times I wonder if X was really as invincible as he acts.
Danger always on their heels they ultimately made it, but my goodness it wasn’t easy.
There are some nice emotional moments woven into all the action. Let’s not forget the sexy parts, awesome! I loved X and Tate dearly.
Thank god for Betsy and Barbara :)
Awesome thrilling narrative, some humor here and there to take the edge off, because it was one absolutely exciting story.
When Tate is threatened to be killed, X leaves the shadows and save Tate.
But the aggressors aren’t finished.
Let the hunt begin!
That was one bloody, freaking exciting, fast-paced read, with a lot of sexual tension.
On their run, we get the story behind it all. The killing X seems to have a soft spot, and Tate finds X irresistible. At times I wonder if X was really as invincible as he acts.
Danger always on their heels they ultimately made it, but my goodness it wasn’t easy.
There are some nice emotional moments woven into all the action. Let’s not forget the sexy parts, awesome! I loved X and Tate dearly.
Thank god for Betsy and Barbara :)
Awesome thrilling narrative, some humor here and there to take the edge off, because it was one absolutely exciting story.
July 7, 2021
Enjoyable audio, I really liked the narration on this one, he did a great job as two M/C's. This was an enjoyable fast paced story, I liked the premise but was hoping to get a bit more understanding behind the original crime and a possible resolution with it. Nice romance and lots of steam
August 26, 2020
3.5 stars?
I stayed up late to finish this. And end up not sleeping much at all even though it wasn’t THAT late. Sigh.... not sure if that’s affecting my rating because I was so pissed that I couldn’t sleep 😅
Anyways, this was well written but I don’t seem to be as enamoured with it like other people were 🙊 it was okay. Not sure it felt as exciting as I was expecting. Perhaps that’s the problem. Expectations 😣
I didn’t really understand their last journey and where they ended up... felt kinda odd to me. Not many questions were answered...... 🤔 the whole ending was just quite odd to me. I personally didn’t like where they ended up and what they ended up doing. But that’s just me.....🤭
I stayed up late to finish this. And end up not sleeping much at all even though it wasn’t THAT late. Sigh.... not sure if that’s affecting my rating because I was so pissed that I couldn’t sleep 😅
Anyways, this was well written but I don’t seem to be as enamoured with it like other people were 🙊 it was okay. Not sure it felt as exciting as I was expecting. Perhaps that’s the problem. Expectations 😣
I didn’t really understand their last journey and where they ended up... felt kinda odd to me. Not many questions were answered...... 🤔 the whole ending was just quite odd to me. I personally didn’t like where they ended up and what they ended up doing. But that’s just me.....🤭
October 8, 2021
2.5 stars
The first chapter made me wonder if this was going to be too dark for me, but it really wasn't dark at all after that. The escape/survival storyline was solid, and I have a weakness for that type of action plot, so I almost didn't even mind when the romance got a little silly here and there. Almost :)
I was expecting it to be undercooked in a smutty way, but it went schmoopy instead. In a book where they're killing people every time they turn around!! It didn't work so well for me, but I have a low tolerance for the "I've known you for three days, and life just isn't worth living without you" type of cheese. Stronger relationship development could have made this a pretty fun read.
The first chapter made me wonder if this was going to be too dark for me, but it really wasn't dark at all after that. The escape/survival storyline was solid, and I have a weakness for that type of action plot, so I almost didn't even mind when the romance got a little silly here and there. Almost :)
I was expecting it to be undercooked in a smutty way, but it went schmoopy instead. In a book where they're killing people every time they turn around!! It didn't work so well for me, but I have a low tolerance for the "I've known you for three days, and life just isn't worth living without you" type of cheese. Stronger relationship development could have made this a pretty fun read.
November 18, 2020
Now that's a romance! Devotion (ok, maybe a touch of obsession), redemption, commitment, sacrifice, and of course, compatibility. It shows that when you find your special person/people, you grow - maybe only for or with them, but you are safe to be free, to share your inner self, wishes, and desires. Tate and X are that for each other. Their connection and their journey change and improve each individual, which makes them stronger together. This is a story that I will remember and likely re-read in the future. It also reminds me of one of my favorites, which I now have to read again.
dnf
February 23, 20242/23/24: lol I completely forgot about this and don't feel like picking it up again sooooo dnf @ 51%
2/1/24: on hold @ 51%….i’m in total slump mode, will try to come back and finish this !!
2/1/24: on hold @ 51%….i’m in total slump mode, will try to come back and finish this !!
Read
October 30, 2024DNF 60%
This was so boring for me and I have too many unkind things to say so I’ll just stop here. I’m bummed because this should’ve been right up my alley - post-apocalyptic with the government being the bad guys? Love that shit! Usually.
This was so boring for me and I have too many unkind things to say so I’ll just stop here. I’m bummed because this should’ve been right up my alley - post-apocalyptic with the government being the bad guys? Love that shit! Usually.
July 26, 2025
Story 4⭐️
Audio 5 ⭐️
Audio 5 ⭐️
August 20, 2020
Fabulous story!
As much as I love H.L. Day's books I had no idea what to expect from this story. The blurb is intriguing, but "a survival gay romance" told me nothing.
The story takes place in the close future, year 2076, where no one can feel safe. One minute You live Your life and the next You can be vaporized by police officers. No rules, no real law, no justice.
The story is very fast paced, it is difficult to stop reading since MCs are always at risk of being found and killed. There is an atmosphere of constant danger and uncertainty. This book got me hooked right from the start, even though I wasn't completely sure what was going on. It is difficult not to like Tate and X. They are completely different - Tate's naive, kinda helpless and definitely lost in the "wild world" while X is like a ruthless, ready for everything shadow.
The story was not what I normally read, but holy hell, it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! I couldn't get enough of X and Tate. It was not only a great love story, but also an incredible adventure.
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
As much as I love H.L. Day's books I had no idea what to expect from this story. The blurb is intriguing, but "a survival gay romance" told me nothing.
The story takes place in the close future, year 2076, where no one can feel safe. One minute You live Your life and the next You can be vaporized by police officers. No rules, no real law, no justice.
The story is very fast paced, it is difficult to stop reading since MCs are always at risk of being found and killed. There is an atmosphere of constant danger and uncertainty. This book got me hooked right from the start, even though I wasn't completely sure what was going on. It is difficult not to like Tate and X. They are completely different - Tate's naive, kinda helpless and definitely lost in the "wild world" while X is like a ruthless, ready for everything shadow.
The story was not what I normally read, but holy hell, it was ABSOLUTELY AMAZING! I couldn't get enough of X and Tate. It was not only a great love story, but also an incredible adventure.
* I was gifted an ARC copy in exchange for an honest review *
April 15, 2021
I enjoyed most of the 60% of the story I read. My favorite aspects of it were the survival and dystopia theme and weirdly enough, X’s stalkerish, obsessive and protective ways. I loved that he was an indiscriminate killer, hardened and ruthless, but Tate was his exception and he was unconditionally devoted to him. You know, the stuff you love in fantasy but steer clear from in reality. Tate as a character was fine to me. He didn’t annoy me like he did other reviewers although I will say he was a bit corny at times with his rambling. I liked that Tate was very self-aware and not as “squeaky clean” as initially assumed to be. I wouldn’t say Tate was naïve, he just trusted his gut instinct and observations which told him that X was nothing he personally had to be afraid of. I went with three stars instead of the 4 stars I expected it to be because it was very easy for me to put this book down and forget to pick it up. I also didn’t feel the heat when the two MCs became intimate. I skimmed through the sex scene that occurred around 50% and right after it, my interest in the story faded. May finish this another time
August 21, 2020
This book was stressful, violent, intense, thrilling, and amazing. Tate and X went through so many challenges, dark moments, and near-death experiences. My heart broke for both of them so many times. They kept moving forward, Tate hoping for a free and happy future, and X just determined to protect Tate for as long as possible. Despite the horror and death throughout this story, there were moments of humor and tenderness. Those moments kept me going and gave me hope that there might possibly be a happy ending within reach for these men. I was completely invested in Tate and X, and I cringed and teared up as they went through one trial after another. I loved these characters, and their adventure kept me on the edge of my seat.
This book is not for the squeamish, but the story is amazing. The characters are well written and believable, and the love is tangible. I came away emotionally exhausted but with a smile on my face. This is not an easy read, but it is well worth the effort. I went through a lot with Tate and X, and I highly recommend their story.
This book is not for the squeamish, but the story is amazing. The characters are well written and believable, and the love is tangible. I came away emotionally exhausted but with a smile on my face. This is not an easy read, but it is well worth the effort. I went through a lot with Tate and X, and I highly recommend their story.
August 16, 2020
I'm not a huge fan of post-apocalyptic books, or movies for that matter, but I am a fan of HL Day's writing, and this book is another example of her versatility as an author. From the heart-wrenching suicidal ideation in The Edge of Living to the humor of A Temporary Situation, to the passion of A Dance Too Far, she's shown she can write just about anything, but I'd have never thought to add this to her repertoire.
I was drawn in from the first page, invested in the characters and all-in for them finding their HEA together. And what a journey they have! From sick-to-my-stomach fear to cheering for the lovers to hot, hot sex...and the eventual HEA. I loved it and kinda wish there would be more in this world, even though I don't want to disturb X and Tate's lives.
I was drawn in from the first page, invested in the characters and all-in for them finding their HEA together. And what a journey they have! From sick-to-my-stomach fear to cheering for the lovers to hot, hot sex...and the eventual HEA. I loved it and kinda wish there would be more in this world, even though I don't want to disturb X and Tate's lives.
April 1, 2021
4.75 stars
Rating still holds on re-read! Frankly, I’m really surprised so few of my GR friends have read this.
Rating still holds on re-read! Frankly, I’m really surprised so few of my GR friends have read this.
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