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Hazard and Somerset: A Union of Swords #6
Off Duty Volume 2
Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty Volume 2 is a collection of short stories. It includes the following:
“John-Henry Somerset: Sold!”
Somers enters a charity bachelor’s auction without telling his boyfriend. This story takes place before The Rational Faculty.
“Pretty and Pink and Perfect”
Hazard plans a toddler’s birthday party. This story takes place before The Rational Faculty.
“Pride Slays Thanksgiving”
Hazard and Somers prepare for their first Thanksgiving as a couple. This story takes place before Police Brutality.
“Santa: A Cultural Hegemony”
Hazard is volun-told to dress up as Santa. This story takes place before Transactional Dynamics.
“Valentine’s in Six Beats”
Hazard executes his do-over for Valentine’s. This story takes place before Wayward.
"Emery's Birthday Scavenger Hunt"
Somers plans the perfect birthday for Hazard . . . or so he thinks. This story takes place before The Keeper of Bees.
“Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty”
A series of six vignettes featuring Hazard and Somers on a Caribbean vacation. This story takes place after The Keeper of Bees.
Please note that the first six stories have distributed previously to mailing list subscribers and at GRL 2019.
“Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty” is exclusively available in this collection.
“John-Henry Somerset: Sold!”
Somers enters a charity bachelor’s auction without telling his boyfriend. This story takes place before The Rational Faculty.
“Pretty and Pink and Perfect”
Hazard plans a toddler’s birthday party. This story takes place before The Rational Faculty.
“Pride Slays Thanksgiving”
Hazard and Somers prepare for their first Thanksgiving as a couple. This story takes place before Police Brutality.
“Santa: A Cultural Hegemony”
Hazard is volun-told to dress up as Santa. This story takes place before Transactional Dynamics.
“Valentine’s in Six Beats”
Hazard executes his do-over for Valentine’s. This story takes place before Wayward.
"Emery's Birthday Scavenger Hunt"
Somers plans the perfect birthday for Hazard . . . or so he thinks. This story takes place before The Keeper of Bees.
“Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty”
A series of six vignettes featuring Hazard and Somers on a Caribbean vacation. This story takes place after The Keeper of Bees.
Please note that the first six stories have distributed previously to mailing list subscribers and at GRL 2019.
“Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty” is exclusively available in this collection.
178 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 7, 2020
75 people are currently reading
271 people want to read
About the author
Gregory Ashe
135 books1,786 followersI'm a long-time Midwesterner. I've lived in Chicago, Bloomington (IN), and Saint Louis, my current home. Aside from reading and writing (which take up a lot of my time), I'm an educator.
While I enjoy reading across many genres, my two main loves are mystery and speculative fiction. I used to keep a list of favorite books, but it changes so frequently that I've given up. I'm always looking for recommendations, though, so please drop me a line if you have something in mind!
My big goal right now is one day to be responsible enough to get a dog.
While I enjoy reading across many genres, my two main loves are mystery and speculative fiction. I used to keep a list of favorite books, but it changes so frequently that I've given up. I'm always looking for recommendations, though, so please drop me a line if you have something in mind!
My big goal right now is one day to be responsible enough to get a dog.
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June 17, 2022
‼️ WARNING: possible spoilers ahead bc this review is basically just a list of my fav quotes/moments from this book so read at your own risk lol. ‼️
.
.
.
.
.
- fav moments -
Hazard cupped Somers's face, his thumb over Somers's lips.
"You are so fucking beautiful," Hazard rumbled. "And I love you."
Somers's eyes were wet, and he blinked rapidly as he stretched up to kiss Hazard.
"You're going to be mad," Somers said, a blush staining his golden cheeks. "Really mad. Crazy with it."
"And when I'm done showing you how angry I am, I'm going to throw you down on the bed and show you just exactly who you belong to."
"Oh," Somers managed to say in a strangled voice.
JEALOUS HAZARD GIVES ME LIFE. 💘💘
"You," Somers said, pulling back and studying Hazard for a long moment, "are the best thing that's ever happened to me."
"That's bullshit, but you really are the best thing that ever happened to me."
"Hey, you can't steal my line."
"I'm serious, John. I wouldn't have a life, any life, without you. I'd be locked up in a room watching documentaries until I died. Alone."
"Miserably alone."
"Thank you."
"Probably from hand cramps."
"Ok."
these two have some of my fav banters. they somehow manage to crack me up all the time, especially with Somers being the one to always tease and joke around with Hazard while Hazard just doesn't give a shit. 😭🤣
"You're not mad?"
"Mad?" Somers slid up and kissed him. "Emery Hazard, who has to be one of the most intensely private people I have had the privilege to know, just performed an amateur play in front of dozens of people, for the sole purpose of making me happy."
The heat in Hazard's face spread to his throat and chest.
the way they have done so, so much for each other—whether it's trying new things out of their comfort zone or simply putting in the effort to show their love for one another, i just. MY HEART. 😭
"Before that parking garage and movie theatre went in, do you remember what was there?"
"A Safeway?"
"Close. A Food 4 Less. And one time I was in there because Mikey had dared me to steal some booze, and I saw you and Jeff."
Hazard's hands loosened, sliding from Somers's waist to his thighs.
"I didn't know you were dating, not then, but I watched you talking, watched you laughing with him. I don't know if I'd ever seen you laugh before. You were always so serious." Somers touched Hazard's face with one hand, and then his touch fell away. "I walked back and forth, watching you guys go up and down each aisle. Listening. It was like I was starving. And jealous, although I couldn't admit it to myself. Do you remember that?"
Shaking his head, Hazard said, "No."
"I didn't think so. It didn't look like something special. But...but I wanted it so bad, and I didn't know how to even put into words what I wanted."
this is probably my fav moment in the book, simply bc i loved how Somers was being honest about how he felt as he looked back in their past, even if he didn't necessarily realize those feelings yet until later on. but i love revelations like these where you end up discovering something new that happened in the past between or from one of them. i personally don't think it would have worked out between them if they had (somehow) decided to explore their feelings in high school (mainly bc, at the time, Somers had repressed how he felt so it would have just been a secret relationship, which would be unfair to Hazard) bc Somers stated he experimented in college and that's when he truly knew. also, the fact that he used to be a bully is also another aspect of why it wouldn't have worked bc he needed that time and space, and to basically just grow up, to become who he is now...someone trying to become better than his past self.
"I love you," Somers said, giving another of those micro-thrusts, all he could manage with Hazard's legs locked behind him. "You're my husband, and you're mine, and I will always love you and take care of you. And you'll take care of me."
their love confessions always make me sob. 🥺
about the ending... yeah, i basically saw it coming from a mile away bc i was skimming some reviews of the third installment just to see how people felt about it overall and i'm already scared, but curious to see how everything will go down. 👀
.
.
.
.
.
- fav moments -
Hazard cupped Somers's face, his thumb over Somers's lips.
"You are so fucking beautiful," Hazard rumbled. "And I love you."
Somers's eyes were wet, and he blinked rapidly as he stretched up to kiss Hazard.
"You're going to be mad," Somers said, a blush staining his golden cheeks. "Really mad. Crazy with it."
"And when I'm done showing you how angry I am, I'm going to throw you down on the bed and show you just exactly who you belong to."
"Oh," Somers managed to say in a strangled voice.
JEALOUS HAZARD GIVES ME LIFE. 💘💘
"You," Somers said, pulling back and studying Hazard for a long moment, "are the best thing that's ever happened to me."
"That's bullshit, but you really are the best thing that ever happened to me."
"Hey, you can't steal my line."
"I'm serious, John. I wouldn't have a life, any life, without you. I'd be locked up in a room watching documentaries until I died. Alone."
"Miserably alone."
"Thank you."
"Probably from hand cramps."
"Ok."
these two have some of my fav banters. they somehow manage to crack me up all the time, especially with Somers being the one to always tease and joke around with Hazard while Hazard just doesn't give a shit. 😭🤣
"You're not mad?"
"Mad?" Somers slid up and kissed him. "Emery Hazard, who has to be one of the most intensely private people I have had the privilege to know, just performed an amateur play in front of dozens of people, for the sole purpose of making me happy."
The heat in Hazard's face spread to his throat and chest.
the way they have done so, so much for each other—whether it's trying new things out of their comfort zone or simply putting in the effort to show their love for one another, i just. MY HEART. 😭
"Before that parking garage and movie theatre went in, do you remember what was there?"
"A Safeway?"
"Close. A Food 4 Less. And one time I was in there because Mikey had dared me to steal some booze, and I saw you and Jeff."
Hazard's hands loosened, sliding from Somers's waist to his thighs.
"I didn't know you were dating, not then, but I watched you talking, watched you laughing with him. I don't know if I'd ever seen you laugh before. You were always so serious." Somers touched Hazard's face with one hand, and then his touch fell away. "I walked back and forth, watching you guys go up and down each aisle. Listening. It was like I was starving. And jealous, although I couldn't admit it to myself. Do you remember that?"
Shaking his head, Hazard said, "No."
"I didn't think so. It didn't look like something special. But...but I wanted it so bad, and I didn't know how to even put into words what I wanted."
this is probably my fav moment in the book, simply bc i loved how Somers was being honest about how he felt as he looked back in their past, even if he didn't necessarily realize those feelings yet until later on. but i love revelations like these where you end up discovering something new that happened in the past between or from one of them. i personally don't think it would have worked out between them if they had (somehow) decided to explore their feelings in high school (mainly bc, at the time, Somers had repressed how he felt so it would have just been a secret relationship, which would be unfair to Hazard) bc Somers stated he experimented in college and that's when he truly knew. also, the fact that he used to be a bully is also another aspect of why it wouldn't have worked bc he needed that time and space, and to basically just grow up, to become who he is now...someone trying to become better than his past self.
"I love you," Somers said, giving another of those micro-thrusts, all he could manage with Hazard's legs locked behind him. "You're my husband, and you're mine, and I will always love you and take care of you. And you'll take care of me."
their love confessions always make me sob. 🥺
about the ending... yeah, i basically saw it coming from a mile away bc i was skimming some reviews of the third installment just to see how people felt about it overall and i'm already scared, but curious to see how everything will go down. 👀
August 7, 2020
5 Stars!
The first short has Somerset auctioning himself off for charity at the Pretty Pretty club. Hazard was given short notice. As in when Somerset is being called to the stage, lol. It really was one of the funnier stories with Hazard running around making John outfits on the fly while also trying not to kill the guys who are catcalling and ogling his man.
Then we have Hazard planning their daughters birthday where he needs everything to be perfect. It was actually pretty sweet at how badly he wanted things to be perfect for Evie. Especially when the gathering has him feeling awkward. But leave it to Hazard to make find a case in the middle of a toddlers birthday party. You also get to see just how Somerset's mother can be a real nasty piece of work. His father definitely isn't the only one.
The Thanksgiving story was pretty funny. The fight. The nosy neighbor. It was just so Hazard and Somerset.
Hazard playing Santa was funny in itself because he's just so practical about everything that him playing the part was hilarious. Of course he goes on a rant on why they shouldn't be lying to the kids and so on. But in the end his heart melts and he gives in when he see's the awe on Evie's face. It was sweet.
The scavenger hunt for Hazard's birthday was such a smart idea. Someset really knows his guy and planned it perfectly. It was a lot of fun reading that one.
Valentine's day was really fun to read as well. I enjoyed seeing them have some fun in role playing.
What definitely had me loving this volume was the last story. I loved seeing them on vacation and just being together without having any real drama going on. But of course Gregory has to mess with his readers by ending it the way he did. Ugh! I need their next book!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
The first short has Somerset auctioning himself off for charity at the Pretty Pretty club. Hazard was given short notice. As in when Somerset is being called to the stage, lol. It really was one of the funnier stories with Hazard running around making John outfits on the fly while also trying not to kill the guys who are catcalling and ogling his man.
Then we have Hazard planning their daughters birthday where he needs everything to be perfect. It was actually pretty sweet at how badly he wanted things to be perfect for Evie. Especially when the gathering has him feeling awkward. But leave it to Hazard to make find a case in the middle of a toddlers birthday party. You also get to see just how Somerset's mother can be a real nasty piece of work. His father definitely isn't the only one.
The Thanksgiving story was pretty funny. The fight. The nosy neighbor. It was just so Hazard and Somerset.
Hazard playing Santa was funny in itself because he's just so practical about everything that him playing the part was hilarious. Of course he goes on a rant on why they shouldn't be lying to the kids and so on. But in the end his heart melts and he gives in when he see's the awe on Evie's face. It was sweet.
The scavenger hunt for Hazard's birthday was such a smart idea. Someset really knows his guy and planned it perfectly. It was a lot of fun reading that one.
Valentine's day was really fun to read as well. I enjoyed seeing them have some fun in role playing.
What definitely had me loving this volume was the last story. I loved seeing them on vacation and just being together without having any real drama going on. But of course Gregory has to mess with his readers by ending it the way he did. Ugh! I need their next book!
Happy reading dolls! xx
I was given an ARC by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 9, 2020
This was one of the most adorable things I've ever read. I'll never get enough of them. ❤️
Merged review:
That’s one of those relationship hard lessons! But Emery passes with flying colors. Eventually, LOL. So sweet! 💖
Merged review:
Awwww, Hazard does romance right in this make-up Valentine’s Day for Somers. Loved it! 😍
Merged review:
That’s one of those relationship hard lessons! But Emery passes with flying colors. Eventually, LOL. So sweet! 💖
Merged review:
Awwww, Hazard does romance right in this make-up Valentine’s Day for Somers. Loved it! 😍
July 10, 2021
**Re-read 7/9/21-7/10/21. Still loved. Maybe even loved it more the second time around. 😍💜🥰
Because Ree and John are always wrapped up in so many cases, we don’t get to see lots of them just relaxing and being a couple. That’s why these little stories that come between the full length novels are so precious. This was short but I loved it. It also made me LOL because of course Hazard would want a script when doing role play and of course he’d add a super nerdy element to it. I adore Hazard and Somerset. They are my favorite couple. And vignettes like these remind me exactly why that is.
OMG I love these two so much. Here I am, being a broken record again. But really. I love them. So. Much. I can only describe my love so many ways. 😂
This second, “Off Duty,” collection is made up of vignettes previously released through Ashe’s newsletter and some new stories.
I often find that I enjoy these novellas even more than the full length books. In them, we get to see Ree and John just be together. They are full of tiny, tender moments and I’m basically a swoony mess of feels while reading them. 🥰
They have lots of humor too. From a charity date auction to Evie’s Birthday party to a hilarious role playing Valentine’s Date to their honeymoon which we didn’t get to see at the end of the last book. I read every novella, even the ones I already read. My love might verge on obsessive and I’m still seeking a support group. Not to cure me. Just for company.
That cliffhanger ending nearly killed me but at least it confirms we are definitely getting more of Hazard and Somerset...next year. It the cliffhanger almost killed me, the waiting might actually do so. 😭
Because Ree and John are always wrapped up in so many cases, we don’t get to see lots of them just relaxing and being a couple. That’s why these little stories that come between the full length novels are so precious. This was short but I loved it. It also made me LOL because of course Hazard would want a script when doing role play and of course he’d add a super nerdy element to it. I adore Hazard and Somerset. They are my favorite couple. And vignettes like these remind me exactly why that is.
OMG I love these two so much. Here I am, being a broken record again. But really. I love them. So. Much. I can only describe my love so many ways. 😂
This second, “Off Duty,” collection is made up of vignettes previously released through Ashe’s newsletter and some new stories.
I often find that I enjoy these novellas even more than the full length books. In them, we get to see Ree and John just be together. They are full of tiny, tender moments and I’m basically a swoony mess of feels while reading them. 🥰
They have lots of humor too. From a charity date auction to Evie’s Birthday party to a hilarious role playing Valentine’s Date to their honeymoon which we didn’t get to see at the end of the last book. I read every novella, even the ones I already read. My love might verge on obsessive and I’m still seeking a support group. Not to cure me. Just for company.
That cliffhanger ending nearly killed me but at least it confirms we are definitely getting more of Hazard and Somerset...next year. It the cliffhanger almost killed me, the waiting might actually do so. 😭
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 5, 2022
Hazard and his documentaries, their lovely friendship with Noah and Rebeca, the epic role playing, heartwarming honeymoon shenanigans, the (missed this the first readthrough because i didn’t know this character yet!), etc. MY HEART IS FULL.
that mind blowing ending though:
????? THE ADVENTURES ARE FAR FROM OVER, MY FRIENDS
that mind blowing ending though:
????? THE ADVENTURES ARE FAR FROM OVER, MY FRIENDS
May 29, 2020
Lookit, I know that I should not be condoning Hazard shaking down a toddler but... his bad wrongness entertains me so!
I know. I'll just retire to the blanket fort of shame.
Besides my sides need the recovery time after all the cackling I just did.
Merged review:
I think what I like more about this spinoff series is exemplified in this short: they're building a life together that includes Rebecca and Noah. Two people I really like.
Plus the turkey hand was sweet. Hazard can be a squishy marshmallow sometimes. And it gets me every.single.time.
Merged review:
To quote John Henry Somerset:
"This," Somers whispered with another of those mile-wide grins, "is the best thing of my entire life."
Probably hyperbole but this is definitely my favorite of all the vignettes so far.
Then again, I'm kinda smitten by these two knuckleheads especially when grumpy ole Hazard gets a case of The Feels and shows them to Somers.
This being as cute as it is probably means I'm about to get punched clean in the face by Wayward but whatevs.
I can't quit them!!!!
I know. I'll just retire to the blanket fort of shame.
Besides my sides need the recovery time after all the cackling I just did.
Merged review:
I think what I like more about this spinoff series is exemplified in this short: they're building a life together that includes Rebecca and Noah. Two people I really like.
Plus the turkey hand was sweet. Hazard can be a squishy marshmallow sometimes. And it gets me every.single.time.
Merged review:
To quote John Henry Somerset:
"This," Somers whispered with another of those mile-wide grins, "is the best thing of my entire life."
Probably hyperbole but this is definitely my favorite of all the vignettes so far.
Then again, I'm kinda smitten by these two knuckleheads especially when grumpy ole Hazard gets a case of The Feels and shows them to Somers.
This being as cute as it is probably means I'm about to get punched clean in the face by Wayward but whatevs.
I can't quit them!!!!
August 9, 2020
Hazard does something pretty special and very unexpected for Somers on Valentine's Day.
Unbelievable! How much more romantic can you get?
I would have never thought how nerdy and boyish these two can be together. 🥰
Another fun short to go with series 2!
Merged review:
Hazard does his first children’s birthday party ( and you can imagine how that one goes!) and solves the mystery of a disappearing present.
I ached for Hazard, his insecurities and how much he wants to make this party perfect for his little girl. And yes, slowly he does call Evie ‘his’.
As for Somers parents – yikes! Unbelievable.
Fab addition to the series!
Merged review:
Ahhh!
How Hazard and Somers sort out their different view on what should happen on Thanksgiving Day.
Very funny and cute, with a really sweet moment at the end.
So worth it! Excellent short to go with the series!
Merged review:
This collection of short stories is nothing but sheer magic.
Hazard and Somers in all kind of every day situations, from the ridiculous to the sublime, from the most hilarious to the poignant and swoon-worthy.
I'd read 4 of these shorts previously and you can find my thoughts on those here:
Pretty and Pink and Perfect
Pride Slays Thanksgiving
Santa: A Cultural Hegemony
Valentine's in Six Beats
And as for the rest:
John Henry Somerset: SOLD!
If you know Emery Hazard you can imagine his reaction to John taking part in a bachelor auction. LOL. Exactly that! Gregory Ashe skillfully mixes the hilarious with real feels and gives us something to smile about.
Loved it!
Emery's Birthday Scavenger Hunt
Cute, poignant and absolutely swoon-worthy.
I have no idea how Gregory Ashe can come up with these beautiful little shorts about Hazard and Somers again and again. A brilliant mix of feels and humour.
Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty
It was ultimately gratifying to see these two men who have suffered so much and gone through hell and back so happy and relaxed.
With Hazard being Hazard, super informative and ever prepared, and Somers being Somers, gorgeous and cute, and both of them so seriously in love, it made me feel all fuzzy.
Until … the last sentence which is a cliffhanger of mega proportions.
How dare you, Mr. Ashe, leave us with this until … is it next year????
On the one hand I’m really excited to know that Hazard and Somers will be back, on the other I’m worried that this new plotline might simply be too much and drag this brilliant series out too far.
Time will tell, but as Gregory Ashe’s writing has never disappointed so far, I trust him to take these two guys to totally new realms!
Unbelievable! How much more romantic can you get?
I would have never thought how nerdy and boyish these two can be together. 🥰
Another fun short to go with series 2!
Merged review:
Hazard does his first children’s birthday party ( and you can imagine how that one goes!) and solves the mystery of a disappearing present.
I ached for Hazard, his insecurities and how much he wants to make this party perfect for his little girl. And yes, slowly he does call Evie ‘his’.
As for Somers parents – yikes! Unbelievable.
Fab addition to the series!
Merged review:
Ahhh!
How Hazard and Somers sort out their different view on what should happen on Thanksgiving Day.
Very funny and cute, with a really sweet moment at the end.
So worth it! Excellent short to go with the series!
Merged review:
This collection of short stories is nothing but sheer magic.
Hazard and Somers in all kind of every day situations, from the ridiculous to the sublime, from the most hilarious to the poignant and swoon-worthy.
I'd read 4 of these shorts previously and you can find my thoughts on those here:
Pretty and Pink and Perfect
Pride Slays Thanksgiving
Santa: A Cultural Hegemony
Valentine's in Six Beats
And as for the rest:
John Henry Somerset: SOLD!
If you know Emery Hazard you can imagine his reaction to John taking part in a bachelor auction. LOL. Exactly that! Gregory Ashe skillfully mixes the hilarious with real feels and gives us something to smile about.
Loved it!
Emery's Birthday Scavenger Hunt
Cute, poignant and absolutely swoon-worthy.
I have no idea how Gregory Ashe can come up with these beautiful little shorts about Hazard and Somers again and again. A brilliant mix of feels and humour.
Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty
It was ultimately gratifying to see these two men who have suffered so much and gone through hell and back so happy and relaxed.
With Hazard being Hazard, super informative and ever prepared, and Somers being Somers, gorgeous and cute, and both of them so seriously in love, it made me feel all fuzzy.
Until … the last sentence which is a cliffhanger of mega proportions.
How dare you, Mr. Ashe, leave us with this until … is it next year????
On the one hand I’m really excited to know that Hazard and Somers will be back, on the other I’m worried that this new plotline might simply be too much and drag this brilliant series out too far.
Time will tell, but as Gregory Ashe’s writing has never disappointed so far, I trust him to take these two guys to totally new realms!
July 27, 2021
What the f u c k was that ending!? Whaaaaat.
Ahem, okay, uh, in order, I guess?
SOLD : cutesy, sexy, fun.
PRETTY AND PINK AND PERFECT : reinforced my hate for Somers' mother but also I am trash for all Dee Dee content so it was adorable.
PRIDE SLAYS THANKSGIVING : someone cry-laughed during the scene when Emery told his neighbour's son he was going to kill his dad and to bring a mop. I died. Seriously. That whole scene.. murdered me. Full on cackles.
SANTA : A CULTURAL HEGEMONY : this had me crying at the final few lines. Feeeels.
VALENTINE'S IN SIX BEATS : blew my mind. The creativity.. especially for the Emery!.. unreal.
EMERY'S BIRTHDAY SCAVENGER HUNT : perfectly paired with the previous story to show just how much these two know each other and appreciate each other and a nice little acknowledgement, without too much angst, to all their past struggles.
And then.. the OFF DUTY vignettes. I always love this style of short a lot. But yeah, back to my first points.. that ending. I cannot. I cannottttt. What's the ETA on the next series, yo.
Also, I know I just went on and on about how I rate these books so weird but like.. this was perfect. Five stars.
Ahem, okay, uh, in order, I guess?
SOLD : cutesy, sexy, fun.
PRETTY AND PINK AND PERFECT : reinforced my hate for Somers' mother but also I am trash for all Dee Dee content so it was adorable.
PRIDE SLAYS THANKSGIVING : someone cry-laughed during the scene when Emery told his neighbour's son he was going to kill his dad and to bring a mop. I died. Seriously. That whole scene.. murdered me. Full on cackles.
SANTA : A CULTURAL HEGEMONY : this had me crying at the final few lines. Feeeels.
VALENTINE'S IN SIX BEATS : blew my mind. The creativity.. especially for the Emery!.. unreal.
EMERY'S BIRTHDAY SCAVENGER HUNT : perfectly paired with the previous story to show just how much these two know each other and appreciate each other and a nice little acknowledgement, without too much angst, to all their past struggles.
And then.. the OFF DUTY vignettes. I always love this style of short a lot. But yeah, back to my first points.. that ending. I cannot. I cannottttt. What's the ETA on the next series, yo.
Also, I know I just went on and on about how I rate these books so weird but like.. this was perfect. Five stars.
December 5, 2022
I was like, “This is so cute and fun, I want to roll around in these sweet, fluffy shorts forever!” 💘
And then I read that last line.
IT WON’T WORK. I AM A GROWN WOMAN. I HAVE SELF-RESTRAINT. I CAN WAIT. IT WON’T WORK, DO YOU HEAR ME, GREGORY ASHE YOU ABSOLUTE BASTARD!!!111
It will be hard, but I am going to read at least two (2) other books before getting back to this series.
What a fucking tease, though. 👏👏👏
And then I read that last line.
IT WON’T WORK. I AM A GROWN WOMAN. I HAVE SELF-RESTRAINT. I CAN WAIT. IT WON’T WORK, DO YOU HEAR ME, GREGORY ASHE YOU ABSOLUTE BASTARD!!!111
It will be hard, but I am going to read at least two (2) other books before getting back to this series.
What a fucking tease, though. 👏👏👏
July 25, 2023
4.75 stars
Do not even think about skipping these short stories! I loved getting all these little snapshots into Somer’s and Ree’s life; they’re incredibly sweet, especially those moments with Evie. They add so much richness to your reading experience of the series. You’ll find the recommended reading order on Gregory Ashe’s website.
I took away 0.25 stars because the Valentine’s Day story didn’t do much for me ironically.
Do not even think about skipping these short stories! I loved getting all these little snapshots into Somer’s and Ree’s life; they’re incredibly sweet, especially those moments with Evie. They add so much richness to your reading experience of the series. You’ll find the recommended reading order on Gregory Ashe’s website.
I took away 0.25 stars because the Valentine’s Day story didn’t do much for me ironically.
April 24, 2025
I'm so glad that this series had this collection of shorter stories to break up the tension and the drama.
I can't decide which was my favourite, but I laughed so much at the Thanksgiving and Christmas stories 😂
Love how it ended on that cliffhanger though...
I can't decide which was my favourite, but I laughed so much at the Thanksgiving and Christmas stories 😂
Love how it ended on that cliffhanger though...
August 8, 2020
A fun glimpse into moments with Ree & Somers - god I love these guys so much ❤️❤️
January 23, 2025
5⭐️ This is a great collection of mini stories that slot between each larger book. I highly recommend downloading it first and reading them in order along with the series. They’re sweet and funny, with lots of banter and fun moments. The main books are so angsty that these lighter short stories really feel like a balm.
August 8, 2020
This guy has a real future as a romance writer. :P
Merged review:
This is the second set of short stories featuring Emery Hazard and John-Henry Somerset in their off-time. Most of them have been available to subscribers to the author’s mailing list, but the final set of vignettes, Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty are new, and take place after the events of The Keeper of Bees, the final book in the Union of Swords series.
The first of the stories takes place between Criminal Past at the end of the first series and The Rational Faculty, and they follow the guys through the timeframe of the series, each one usually taking place between books - and they’re full of classic Hazard and Somers banter and snark as well as showing them at their most couple-y and loving. We’ve got Hazard obsessing over the perfect birthday party for Evie, (he is SUCH a great Dad!), Somers up against Nico in a bachelor auction, and my personal favourite, a wonderful Valentine’s Day Do-Over in which Hazard pulls out all the stops to make the day as special and romantic for Somers as possible.
It’s always a pleasure to read about Hazard and Somers in situations where they’re not being shot at, beaten up or having a major relationship crisis; these stories provide wonderful glimpses into their ‘ordinary’ daily lives and give us – and them – a bit of respite from the chaos and danger that they invariably attract in the full-length novels. Plus, there’s a real sense that the author has fun writing these and it also showcases just how well he knows (and loves) these characters.
The final set of stories is new and given the note on which The Keeper of Bees ended was just what I wanted to read next. But be warned, Mr. Ashe drops one helluva bombshell - one I did NOT see coming - at the end of the last one! So now it’s just a case of waiting to see how the guys handle this latest upheaval in their lives in their next series – Hazard and Somerset: Arrows in the Hand . I can’t wait.
Merged review:
This is the second set of short stories featuring Emery Hazard and John-Henry Somerset in their off-time. Most of them have been available to subscribers to the author’s mailing list, but the final set of vignettes, Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty are new, and take place after the events of The Keeper of Bees, the final book in the Union of Swords series.
The first of the stories takes place between Criminal Past at the end of the first series and The Rational Faculty, and they follow the guys through the timeframe of the series, each one usually taking place between books - and they’re full of classic Hazard and Somers banter and snark as well as showing them at their most couple-y and loving. We’ve got Hazard obsessing over the perfect birthday party for Evie, (he is SUCH a great Dad!), Somers up against Nico in a bachelor auction, and my personal favourite, a wonderful Valentine’s Day Do-Over in which Hazard pulls out all the stops to make the day as special and romantic for Somers as possible.
It’s always a pleasure to read about Hazard and Somers in situations where they’re not being shot at, beaten up or having a major relationship crisis; these stories provide wonderful glimpses into their ‘ordinary’ daily lives and give us – and them – a bit of respite from the chaos and danger that they invariably attract in the full-length novels. Plus, there’s a real sense that the author has fun writing these and it also showcases just how well he knows (and loves) these characters.
The final set of stories is new and given the note on which The Keeper of Bees ended was just what I wanted to read next. But be warned, Mr. Ashe drops one helluva bombshell - one I did NOT see coming - at the end of the last one! So now it’s just a case of waiting to see how the guys handle this latest upheaval in their lives in their next series – Hazard and Somerset: Arrows in the Hand . I can’t wait.
August 13, 2020
Lovely and sweet and perfect.
I never get tired of these two.
Sigh.
Merged review:
Best of 2020.
I'm tempted to say I like the Off Duty volumes better than anything else on earth. But maybe that's going too far??! Anyway, I treasure (!) and celebrate (!) each and every one of these marvelous snapshots of Hazard and Somers, and if you love these two even half as much as I do, you must read both volumes and then read them again and again when you need a lift.
“John-Henry Somerset: Sold!”
A
Hilarious. Awesome. We know Hazard has "trouble" with jealousy when anyone expresses interest in John. Who knew he was so competitive, too? (I did!!) Hazard gets to work making his boyfriend the hottest hottie on the auction block, and then struggles when he actually is. As per usual, Somers is the perfect foil to his crazy - alternately egging it on and calming Hazard down. Love it.
“Pretty and Pink and Perfect"
A
Pretty much perfect. Look, Hazard loves Evie and Somers so much. He'll do anything for them. Including taking down a father/son duo who make the mistake of messing with the perfection of Evie's birthday party. Somers playful teasing about the cake is the icing on this cake. (that sounded cleverer in my head). P.S. Somers' mom is the worst.
“Pride Slays Thanksgiving”
B+
Not my favorite of all these stories, but still great. Usually Hazard is a few steps ahead of Somers on the job, but when it comes to relationships? It always takes him a few beats to figure out what went wrong & Somers takes full advantage. The note on the window is hilarious & Noah's smug relationship advice made me laugh. So good.
“Santa: A Cultural Hegemony”
B+
“Valentine’s in Six Beats”
A
This story perfectly showcases the strength of Mr. Ashe's writing. It's clever, SUPER ROMANTIC, funny and lovely. Hazard hates to be embarrassed and has no problem expressing his opinion about - well, everything - but he's madly in love with Somers and will do anything for him. Including staging a rom-com. #lesigh
"Emery's Birthday Scavenger Hunt"
B+
In The Case of the Missing Birthday Brunch, Mr. Ashe turns the tables on readers and Hazard. This time we get to see Somers at his clever best. John-Henry nearly outwits Hazard, forcing him to search for John via a series of cryptic clues only Hazard could ever figure out. We get nicely smirky (it's a word!) John teasing and taunting Hazard, and Hazard laser focused on finding his boyfriend. As per usual, whenever he's forced to interact with friends/colleagues/locals, he's brusque, often rude, sometimes offensive - but also hilarious. The final sequence nearly made me cry, and I had to laugh at Hazard's non-admission that he enjoyed the scavenger hunt.
“Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty”
A+
The honeymoon was everything I hoped for. Romantic. Funny. Sexy (even a sex scene! go Greg!).
I LOVED IT. Every vignette is nearly perfect and the bombshell at the end? O.M.G.
WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK COMING??????????? And I don't know how to feel about this twist.
I never get tired of these two.
Sigh.
Merged review:
Best of 2020.
I'm tempted to say I like the Off Duty volumes better than anything else on earth. But maybe that's going too far??! Anyway, I treasure (!) and celebrate (!) each and every one of these marvelous snapshots of Hazard and Somers, and if you love these two even half as much as I do, you must read both volumes and then read them again and again when you need a lift.
“John-Henry Somerset: Sold!”
A
Hilarious. Awesome. We know Hazard has "trouble" with jealousy when anyone expresses interest in John. Who knew he was so competitive, too? (I did!!) Hazard gets to work making his boyfriend the hottest hottie on the auction block, and then struggles when he actually is. As per usual, Somers is the perfect foil to his crazy - alternately egging it on and calming Hazard down. Love it.
“Pretty and Pink and Perfect"
A
Pretty much perfect. Look, Hazard loves Evie and Somers so much. He'll do anything for them. Including taking down a father/son duo who make the mistake of messing with the perfection of Evie's birthday party. Somers playful teasing about the cake is the icing on this cake. (that sounded cleverer in my head). P.S. Somers' mom is the worst.
“Pride Slays Thanksgiving”
B+
Not my favorite of all these stories, but still great. Usually Hazard is a few steps ahead of Somers on the job, but when it comes to relationships? It always takes him a few beats to figure out what went wrong & Somers takes full advantage. The note on the window is hilarious & Noah's smug relationship advice made me laugh. So good.
“Santa: A Cultural Hegemony”
B+
“Valentine’s in Six Beats”
A
This story perfectly showcases the strength of Mr. Ashe's writing. It's clever, SUPER ROMANTIC, funny and lovely. Hazard hates to be embarrassed and has no problem expressing his opinion about - well, everything - but he's madly in love with Somers and will do anything for him. Including staging a rom-com. #lesigh
"Emery's Birthday Scavenger Hunt"
B+
In The Case of the Missing Birthday Brunch, Mr. Ashe turns the tables on readers and Hazard. This time we get to see Somers at his clever best. John-Henry nearly outwits Hazard, forcing him to search for John via a series of cryptic clues only Hazard could ever figure out. We get nicely smirky (it's a word!) John teasing and taunting Hazard, and Hazard laser focused on finding his boyfriend. As per usual, whenever he's forced to interact with friends/colleagues/locals, he's brusque, often rude, sometimes offensive - but also hilarious. The final sequence nearly made me cry, and I had to laugh at Hazard's non-admission that he enjoyed the scavenger hunt.
“Hazard and Somerset: Off Duty”
A+
The honeymoon was everything I hoped for. Romantic. Funny. Sexy (even a sex scene! go Greg!).
I LOVED IT. Every vignette is nearly perfect and the bombshell at the end? O.M.G.
WHEN IS THE NEXT BOOK COMING??????????? And I don't know how to feel about this twist.
August 23, 2020
OMFG that ending!
Read
July 24, 2022Obsessed with their slice of life
December 31, 2020
Was there ever a more romantic guy that Emery Hazard? John-Henry's Valentine dinner in Transactional Dynamics was pretty awesome but this? 💞💞💞 Sweet beyond words and very creative. He certainly knows his man.
Merged review:
This story falls in the middle of the vignettes and takes place right before The Rational Faculty. It's super cute. Emery and John-Henry are hosting Evie's birthday party in their new house. Hazard's trying to make it perfect, and largely succeeds, despite of the usual miscreants, and the fact that Hazard has no experience with children, family, or healthy relationships. I love him.
Merged review:
You know that Cat Stevens, "Two Fine People"? (see below) That's Hazard & Somers. Two good people learning how to coexist, loving each other without a roadmap, while remaining true to their individual selves.
The turkey hand gave me leaky eyes and I need for Gregory Ashe to sign a contract in blood stating that nothing bad will happen to Rebeca, Noah, or their brood. I love them.
*lyrics no one asked for
Now that I've passed your test
How can I prove to you baby I'll never let you down
If I led you around, I'm sorry
But I never meant to worry you...no
Now that I've kissed your breast
How can I prove to you baby I'll never make you sad
If I ever had , do believe your tears tears won't come back again
I love you, though the stars may fade
And mountains turn into sand. I love you
'Til my body changes into an old man. I love you
And the song that I sing is the only way that I can explain
La la la la la la
You know I wish for you baby nothing but good times ahead
Anything that heaven can give you, I can give you instead
La la la la la la
How could I lie to you baby, I'll never lead you around
I'll take care of everything you need, darling
Every little need'll be found. I love you
Thought the time may change and snowmen sleep in the sea
And I really only want you to want me. I love you
And the song that I sing is the only way that I can explain
Now that you've shown your heart
I'll be right with you baby, I'll never leave you alone
Anywhere you want me to be honey, I'll be there to have and to hold
And now that the clouds roll back, hold on to me baby
We're going never to land, flying on the power of love
Flying on the power of love. I love you
Though time may fade and mountains turn into sand
I love you, 'til the very same come back to the land
I love you and the song that I sing is the only way that
I can explain
Two fine people should love each other
Two fine people should help each other
Merged review:
Okay ... The Keeper of Bees was going to be my official last book of this horrid year and then I perused this volume and realized that though I'd already read the stories contained within (as Gregory Ashe usually sends them out to his subscribers) he was kind enough to add a vignette that follows the guys on their 'trip' after the events in TKoB.
It's everything you'd expect, John and Ree remain true to character. It's romantic in the best way and funny and and and .... I'll say no more other than 😳
*I've done individual reviews for each of these stories as I read them. The only one not listed on GR is JOHN-HENRY SOMERSET: SOLD! My review:
"Hazard & Somers go to the Pretty Pretty, there's an auction, Hazard doesn't share. Oh! And a Nico sighting too."
I'll add that though these are short stories that take place in between the main installments of the series they individually serve in advancing the relationship between John-Henry and Emery and should absolutely be part of your reading enjoyment.
Merged review:
This story falls in the middle of the vignettes and takes place right before The Rational Faculty. It's super cute. Emery and John-Henry are hosting Evie's birthday party in their new house. Hazard's trying to make it perfect, and largely succeeds, despite of the usual miscreants, and the fact that Hazard has no experience with children, family, or healthy relationships. I love him.
Merged review:
You know that Cat Stevens, "Two Fine People"? (see below) That's Hazard & Somers. Two good people learning how to coexist, loving each other without a roadmap, while remaining true to their individual selves.
The turkey hand gave me leaky eyes and I need for Gregory Ashe to sign a contract in blood stating that nothing bad will happen to Rebeca, Noah, or their brood. I love them.
*lyrics no one asked for
Now that I've passed your test
How can I prove to you baby I'll never let you down
If I led you around, I'm sorry
But I never meant to worry you...no
Now that I've kissed your breast
How can I prove to you baby I'll never make you sad
If I ever had , do believe your tears tears won't come back again
I love you, though the stars may fade
And mountains turn into sand. I love you
'Til my body changes into an old man. I love you
And the song that I sing is the only way that I can explain
La la la la la la
You know I wish for you baby nothing but good times ahead
Anything that heaven can give you, I can give you instead
La la la la la la
How could I lie to you baby, I'll never lead you around
I'll take care of everything you need, darling
Every little need'll be found. I love you
Thought the time may change and snowmen sleep in the sea
And I really only want you to want me. I love you
And the song that I sing is the only way that I can explain
Now that you've shown your heart
I'll be right with you baby, I'll never leave you alone
Anywhere you want me to be honey, I'll be there to have and to hold
And now that the clouds roll back, hold on to me baby
We're going never to land, flying on the power of love
Flying on the power of love. I love you
Though time may fade and mountains turn into sand
I love you, 'til the very same come back to the land
I love you and the song that I sing is the only way that
I can explain
Two fine people should love each other
Two fine people should help each other
Merged review:
Okay ... The Keeper of Bees was going to be my official last book of this horrid year and then I perused this volume and realized that though I'd already read the stories contained within (as Gregory Ashe usually sends them out to his subscribers) he was kind enough to add a vignette that follows the guys on their 'trip' after the events in TKoB.
It's everything you'd expect, John and Ree remain true to character. It's romantic in the best way and funny and and and .... I'll say no more other than 😳
*I've done individual reviews for each of these stories as I read them. The only one not listed on GR is JOHN-HENRY SOMERSET: SOLD! My review:
"Hazard & Somers go to the Pretty Pretty, there's an auction, Hazard doesn't share. Oh! And a Nico sighting too."
I'll add that though these are short stories that take place in between the main installments of the series they individually serve in advancing the relationship between John-Henry and Emery and should absolutely be part of your reading enjoyment.
December 13, 2025
What do you meannn I have to read 3 series before I get to read the rest of this new SHOCKING development? 😩 GA is a sadist
October 22, 2022
What?!?!?!?!?!?!?!?
January 30, 2024
Just two good old boys,
not doing much harm here, but
don’t fuck with Santa.
not doing much harm here, but
don’t fuck with Santa.
August 8, 2020
Lovely little Valentine's Day vignette. Thanks Greg.
Merged review:
Oh. My. God. I just adored this one. 😍😍😍😍😍
Yes, all of the free short stories I'd already read, thanks to being signed up to Greg's mailing list and it's definitely no hardship to re-read them all again, but the vignettes?? The story of was just gorgeous and funny, and that ending?? Colour me gobsmacked!!
H & S return in Arrows in the Hand, I would assume in 2021...Greg's pretty busy with other stuff [read more stories and new characters] until then.
Merged review:
Oh. My. God. I just adored this one. 😍😍😍😍😍
Yes, all of the free short stories I'd already read, thanks to being signed up to Greg's mailing list and it's definitely no hardship to re-read them all again, but the vignettes?? The story of was just gorgeous and funny, and that ending?? Colour me gobsmacked!!
H & S return in Arrows in the Hand, I would assume in 2021...Greg's pretty busy with other stuff [read more stories and new characters] until then.
December 21, 2021
I'm not sure what to grade this because I read most of the stories and some were pretty good, none were horrible, and yet I don't plan to finish this. The real problem is that I can't with this series. Criminal Past was so bad that even though I read on to The Keeper of the Bees and even though The Keeper of the Bees was much better, reading it made it clear to me that I wasn't over the way the first arc concluded in Criminal Past and I probably never will be. It was a bad enough book that it killed my interest in the series and probably the author. So, even though I read most of this book and it's not bad, it doesn't make up for the pitfall in the bigger picture of the whole series, and doesn't convince me to change my mind. I'm outta here. 1.5 stars I guess?
December 10, 2020
There are seven short stories of which six take place before the Union of Swords books and the seventh takes place after The Keeper of Bees. They are sweet, funny, serious, laugh out loud and oh the best of Emery. It is seriously classic Emery and you can see how much Emery loves John-Henry and Evie. His friendship with Noah and Rebecca is priceless. I just finished The Keeper of Bees soomg I was finally able to read the last short and again classic Emery and his love for John-Henry but omg, the last page, the last sentence and omg. I can't wait for more Hazard and Somerset!
January 19, 2023
So much fun. Love these stories.
August 1, 2020
ARC received for honest review
Most of the stories in this collection have been available to people signed up for Greg’s mailing list over the last year so they weren’t new to me. But rereading them is always a treat!!
It’s so good to have these little breaks from all the tension and angst the boys normally have to deal with and these glimpses into their lives outside of the case of each book are so wonderful.
Especially those with Evie! Evie will literally always make a story better for me! I adore her and I absolutely love getting to see more of the dynamic developing of her with H&S as her two dads❤️ but also I really appreciate when Greg explores the guys relationship more and shows us how they are when the world around them isn’t an imminent threat to their safety and sanity! They need these breaks as much as we do!! And it’s so good to see them get them!
The last story in this collection is post Keeper of Bees! So I’m not going to spoil anything and instead I’ll simply say that it’s an absolutely lovely follow up for the ending of that book and just what I feel readers will want to get to read next as soon as they finish KoB! (It’s certainly what I was asking for after reading KoB)
AND THEN ALSO GOOD LORDS AM I NOW READY FOR THE NEXT ARC OF BOOKS!! THAT SET UP IS *chefs kiss* and the biggest gasp elicited from me yet!
BRING ON ARROWS IN THE HAND!
Most of the stories in this collection have been available to people signed up for Greg’s mailing list over the last year so they weren’t new to me. But rereading them is always a treat!!
It’s so good to have these little breaks from all the tension and angst the boys normally have to deal with and these glimpses into their lives outside of the case of each book are so wonderful.
Especially those with Evie! Evie will literally always make a story better for me! I adore her and I absolutely love getting to see more of the dynamic developing of her with H&S as her two dads❤️ but also I really appreciate when Greg explores the guys relationship more and shows us how they are when the world around them isn’t an imminent threat to their safety and sanity! They need these breaks as much as we do!! And it’s so good to see them get them!
The last story in this collection is post Keeper of Bees! So I’m not going to spoil anything and instead I’ll simply say that it’s an absolutely lovely follow up for the ending of that book and just what I feel readers will want to get to read next as soon as they finish KoB! (It’s certainly what I was asking for after reading KoB)
AND THEN ALSO GOOD LORDS AM I NOW READY FOR THE NEXT ARC OF BOOKS!! THAT SET UP IS *chefs kiss* and the biggest gasp elicited from me yet!
BRING ON ARROWS IN THE HAND!
September 24, 2022
These novellas are the best
November 15, 2024
I just cannot get enough of this series and this couple and a book of little short stories filling in the blanks?
Catnip for my soul 🤗
Catnip for my soul 🤗
October 4, 2021
If I could, I'd give it 6 stars...
These short stories featuring our boys are hilarious and just so sweet. Then we get to tag along on John’s and Emory’s honeymoon which was both amusing and emotional - with an surprise cliffhanger at the end.
If you love Hazard and Somerset, you can’t miss this book!
These short stories featuring our boys are hilarious and just so sweet. Then we get to tag along on John’s and Emory’s honeymoon which was both amusing and emotional - with an surprise cliffhanger at the end.
If you love Hazard and Somerset, you can’t miss this book!
August 17, 2020
This was absolutely adorable. Many kudos to the author for coming up with something so creative. Loved it.
*free with the author's newsletter*
Merged review:
Sweet story. Hazard's moments w the little girl are some of my favorites.
Merged review:
This was a collection of short stories about H & S. Some I had read before from the author's newsletter and some we're new. The last one covers their and the ending.....wow.....I couldn't have been more shocked. It's going to be torture waiting for the next book.
*free with the author's newsletter*
Merged review:
Sweet story. Hazard's moments w the little girl are some of my favorites.
Merged review:
This was a collection of short stories about H & S. Some I had read before from the author's newsletter and some we're new. The last one covers their and the ending.....wow.....I couldn't have been more shocked. It's going to be torture waiting for the next book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews