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Covert Affairs #2

Modern Warfare

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Covert Affairs M/M Romance Book Two

Navigating a new relationship is never easy, but Deputy Director Syler Perrin has the uniquely hair-raising privilege of doing it with one Special Agent Arthur Dufault, premiere CIA operative and all around menace.

When Arthur nearly dies on a botched assignment in Moscow, Syler thinks he can be forgiven for going a bit off the deep end looking for ways to keep his lover safe.

Arthur, for his part, is more worried that Syler is going to decide their entire relationship isn’t worth the trouble and that’s before the next two assignments go wrong.

There’s no such thing as a coincidence in espionage. Everything points to a leak, but no one can pinpoint where despite their best efforts.

Frankly, Syler would rather deal with all that then Arthur’s mother showing up for a surprise visit.

Or – getting together was one thing. Building a future is something else.

One happily ever after with a side of gun fights coming right up.

180 pages, Kindle Edition

First published August 28, 2020

36 people are currently reading
139 people want to read

About the author

Valerie Vaughn

2 books80 followers

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5 stars
228 (53%)
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134 (31%)
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52 (12%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
Profile Image for Ariana  (mostly offline).
1,683 reviews97 followers
September 6, 2021
I really enjoyed book 1, and book 2 is definitely a worthy sequel.
And all yeah!!! to the emphasis on Arthur and Syler’s relationship development here.

They haven’t been together for very long, but due to the nature of their jobs (a CIA deputy and an agent) both men have to face up to the fact that either of them could die on the job anytime.

Add in some personal insecurities, some truths about who they are and Arthur’s mother who turns up out of the blue, and you’ve got a very entertaining and heart-warming story where accepting a person just the way they are and showing a willingness to figure a relationship out, no matter what, is very much at the core.

And I loved it. And how the author deals with these issues.
I also adored Syler and his geekiness, his intelligence and amazing talent on the IT front. Yes, there is techno babble, it’s unavoidable, but even if you don’t understand a word – like me- it doesn’t’ take away from enjoying the plot!
Arthur is basically a big badass sweetheart (not that he would admit it!) and seeing him fawn over Syler is just downright cute. And he can cook, too!

Only thing (something Fundamentally mentioned, too) that bugged me:
The author has a habit of referring to the MCs with descriptions like: 'the older/younger man, the blond, the brunette, the agent, the engineer' etc. And it feels downright weird, particularly in intimate situations! If you're in the POV of one MC, you'd never refer to the guy you're in love with like that. It really doesn't gel and gets quite annoying in the long run.

Still, this didn't diminish my enjoyment much.
You will have to read book 1 before embarking on this, but I bet you’ll find that this isn’t exactly a hardship!
Very much recommended!
Profile Image for Gerbera_Reads.
1,697 reviews155 followers
August 30, 2020
This was an absolute delight to read! I fell in love with Syler Perrin and Arthur Dufault all over again! The story follows up with the couple about 3 months after the events of the first book unfolded. We get the front row seat into the life with geeky and socially awkward Syler and sophisticated yet down-to-earth Arthur who are in so love but are in for a learning curve where relationships are concerned. The author didn't disappoint with abundance of sweet and steamy moments, variety of quirky diverse characters, a bit of mystery and some good old fashioned armed fights to liven the love story!

I liked it all! The humor and extra comical moments delivered by Syler and Arthur made my day! Two men were like peanut butter and jelly - great by themselves but absolutely perfect together. I was glad to return to the agency and the biggest family of nerd agents ever. Computer talk, small plot twists and a bit of relationship angst made for a well paced story. I had so much fun reading it. In the end the author gave us such a wonderful epilogue that neatly tied up all the worries and loose ends, so I am not sure there will be more of Arthur and Syler adventures. I wish for more but if there is none coming, I am ever so glad I had them even this long. Such a cute fun couple! Copy received for my honest and unbiased review.
Profile Image for Rielle.
569 reviews68 followers
August 19, 2023
3.5 stars

This book was like a warm hug with a bit of intrigue. It was a lot sweeter than the last book and had a lot less spy action, but it was still enjoyable. It wasn’t overly interesting until about the 70% mark, but worth the wait.
Profile Image for Verdelite.
420 reviews27 followers
September 3, 2020
Confession time: I'd never watched a Bond movie prior to starting this series NOR read a single work of fan fiction in my life.
But then Book 1 got me into the rabbit hole that is #00Q and it is glorious and I am now in the process of watching all the Craig movies and scouring the Internet for 00Q fics and stalking Valerie Vaughn for moaAAA BOOKS.

10/10, would do it again.
Profile Image for Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog).
5,887 reviews214 followers
September 13, 2020




Amazon

If Daniel Craig's Bond were a bit younger, and into men, he would be the perfect muse for Arthur and his love, Syler. Modern Warfare takes place a few months after Partnership ended. The two are further into their relationship, more in love than ever, but without them declaring so. Of course, Arthur is out on more missions, and Syler is his ever present handler, guiding him through those missions with stoic professionalism as always. Except when something happens and jolts Syler into realizing exactly what Arthur's come to mean to him, the epiphany most definitely works in their favor.



Now the only question is, how long can Arthur do this? Go on missions when there's a chance, even a slight one, that he might not make it back? Will the two ride off into the sunset happily together?



I LOOOOVED this latest installment of the suave spy and his stoic computer geek. There's heat abounding between the two, the feelings are stronger than ever, and the action is non-stop. I'm not sure if there's more to come for my boys, but I sure hope so because I love them together. The ending is basically an HFN, not anything definitive, so I'm crossing my fingers it means the author has a proper (happy) sendoff coming for this delightful couple.

ARC via Gay Romance Reviews for an honest review.

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Profile Image for Amanda.
1,398 reviews326 followers
June 30, 2021
Oh, this is a pleasant surprise. I find myself enjoying this sequel much more than Book 1. The reason I'm reading this is because I really like Syler and Arthur's dynamic despite the lack of emotional element in the previous book. Earlier, I know what they did, but I don't know how they feel. We don't get much insight into what they are thinking. In Book 2, things are much better and I feel more emotionally invested because the author finally us know their inner turmoil.
Syler and Arthur are together now, they are so lovey dovey at their workplace because they spent more time at work than at home and during the limited down time while they get to be home, they are very domestic. The constant ribbing from their colleagues were fun as well.
There are some action and drama going on at work involving information leakage that required Syler's skillset. I tuned out of those technical stuff because I'm lost in the midst of all the technology jargon.
Anyway, what I enjoy in this book is the relationship development between Syler and Arthur. They are learning to be functional together, Syler worrying about Arthur's botched mission, the moving in (this part was kinda funny), meeting the parent (surprise) and relationshipy stuff. It was very sweet and nice, even the sex scenes are more well executed this time around. Will we get more of Syler and Arthur? I'm not sure, but I would say this end in a satisfying HEA.
Profile Image for Jessica Frances.
Author 29 books404 followers
April 15, 2021
This was a fantastic sequel to the first book in this series. Sharp writing, fun banter, and it left me wanting more. Highly recommend this series and seriously hoping there will be more books written in this world, although this does end nicely if there isn't going to be more. I can still dream, though!
Profile Image for Jacquie Stewart.
2,645 reviews74 followers
August 28, 2020
I love Syler and Arthur! I hope there's more in this series but am happy where this is left off if there isn't. Snark, sweetness and shots fired. Couldn't put it down
Profile Image for Tammy Jones.
803 reviews8 followers
August 29, 2020
I loved the continuation of Syler and Arthur's story. In this follow up to Covert Affairs:Partnership, Arthur is again causing his handler grief. If trouble can be found....Arthur is usually in the middle of it, which always puts Syler on edge. The characters realize, as the story progresses, that communication is vital in relationships. I love how Arthur is so touchy feely with Syler and how completely unaware Syler is of so many things. Their physical chemistry is even hotter in this book and their witty banter kept me entertained. There is also a lot of action in this book which keeps you guessing what will happen next. Another great read by Valerie Vaughn.
Profile Image for BeckieLouLou.
664 reviews19 followers
February 14, 2023
Five star! Sassy geeky cyber security prodigy and sexy field agent. Loved everything about this book, great writing, good pacing, stayed interesting throughout with an excellent balance of relationship and CIA side plot.

This is a continuation of book 1, picks up very quickly after the first book, must be read in order. Book 1 and 2 are about the same m/m couple and both are equally a delight to read. The side characters shine and the sweetness ratchets up in this second book.

James Bond vibes, contemporary, m/m. Dual POV but mostly one guy, HEA, duet, must be read in order. Pretty spicy not extremely graphic. Highly recommend.
Profile Image for Patricia Nelson.
1,739 reviews20 followers
September 19, 2020
This was one hell of a fantastic, fast paced, fascinating, intriguing, emotionally charged, hilarious, snarky, action packed, grab-you-by-the-feels, amazing, wild, crazy, quirky, simmering, and totally awesome rollercoaster ride of a story. It's even better than the first one.
Profile Image for Abhi.
601 reviews
August 29, 2020
loved it as much as the first one wow
Profile Image for Kirsten.
1,915 reviews92 followers
October 16, 2022
I like this couple.
Awkward writing, awkward guys,
hot sex, spy craft, fun.
177 reviews1 follower
August 29, 2020
Loved this couple and please may we have more!?

Slow burn- well, geeky awkward burn is more like it. Loved the spy stuff and the gadgets too! Fun and snarky characters and love.
Profile Image for Antisocial Recluse.
2,712 reviews
September 2, 2020
Enjoyable sequel

This would have been a five star read if not for a couple of irritations with editing errors and calling Arthur “the blonde” 17 times. If they’re having sex and we know who’s doing what, identifying one as “the blonde” is silly and took me out of the story. Also use either a first name or a last name for secondary characters because switching back and forth makes it confusing to identify them. Aside from that, this was a good combination of action and two men trying to navigate the progress of a relationship.
Profile Image for Sandy Kay.
780 reviews65 followers
August 12, 2025
Though possibly less credible than book 1, this sequel still gave me 5-star Feels and delight, so, sticking with another 5 star rating. I love this duet! Read it years ago, forgot about it, rediscovered it this week and here we are.

It is a bit dated now, I'm sure technology has evolved quite a lot, so, keep the pub year in mind.

Genius tech CIA deputy director Syler Perrin and CIA secret agent–foreign spy Arthur Dufault (yes I laugh at his name every time...!) are...domesticating! Neither can believe it. It's a dream come true for Arthur, who was always the good-time guy but never anyone's Guy, and a dream never had for Syler, who's unique genius mania and focus has driven off anyone he ever dated when it came into play.

But this handler-agent team is perfect for each other, so it's too bad that a series of missions gone very very wrong seems to be trying to separate them permanently. What gives?!

Add in an upcoming birthday, a surprise visitor, and a brilliant new idea on Syler's part that leads to weeks of manic server building, and it's romance, chaos, danger, and revelations all around.

Syler's final gift for Arthur's birthday is my favorite part, and the way it's revealed is just 😂😭😂😭. Seeing these two insanely competent but previously emotionally awkward AF men all loved up is hugely awesome, and I was delighted all the way through. The family drama in the background is a strong supporting subplot, and Syler's old friend and new direct report/sidekick Emily and their family of fellow agents continue to shine.

Does the conflict really make sense, is it believable that none of them would have suspected the source and caught on to any of it before the big confrontation? Nope. Not really. Did I care? Again...nope, not really. I just let go and enjoyed the ride.

HEA, CIA handler-agent, tech super genius X former playboy turned simp for his nerd romantic spy thriller. Absolutely no others/cheating/sharing OM drama at all, totally safe again for me! There's no mention of Arthur doing any seduction missions, and I'm giving the benefit of the doubt and going with they were off the table entirely as soon as he realized he had feelings for Syler in book 1. Because. Me. Highly recommended duet.
Profile Image for Beth.
2,915 reviews27 followers
September 9, 2020
4.5 stars... This is a quick read and entertaining second book in this CIA based series.

When Arthur is nearly killed on a blown assignment in Russia Syler takes it personally and sets out to upgrade their systems. There seems to be a stupid yet reasonable explanation. Then another undercover operative is blown in Syria and that too has a stupid yet reasonable explanation. Syler’s inner alarm bells are ringing and meanwhile Arthur is going nuts out of commission on medical leave.

This storyline here takes place mostly at the agency and takes a good look at the people behind the spies just as book one did. I find the storytelling compelling and different. Arthur and Syler are great MCs. I love that Arthur defies stereotypes and that Syler is so adorably clueless. The plot does a great job of dovetailing the suspense storyline with the relationship journey storyline.

There are a couple of plot points or mentions that are thrown out but not elaborated on which co fused me. Maybe there will be more detail in the next book?

The secondary characters contribute to the plot and are distinct characters which is always a huge plus for me. I really enjoy the series and I look forward to book three where things ought to be very interestingly switched up.

**I voluntarily read an arc and this is my unbiased opinion.**
Profile Image for AshPenny37 .
1,031 reviews5 followers
September 1, 2020
Modern Warfare is the second book in the Covert Affairs series, continuing the story of Syler (CIA ops deputy director and genius level engineering geek) and Arthur's (top undercover operative) developing relationship. 

This is a great example of an opposites attract romance with big comedy chops, as well as a good dose of spy action. Syler is as awkward as ever and is still learning to navigate the (previously uncharted for him) waters of being a CIA handler in love with the agent he's responsible for. Arthur, meanwhile, is every bit as self-assured as Syler is socially inept. He's still got room for personal growth in their relationship, though. The way they develop a deeper understanding of each other is utterly sweet and they make a great couple.

The backdrop for Syler and Arthur's romance is a decently plotted story of tech espionage. As a complete layman, I couldn't say whether it's one hundred percent accurate, but it reads very well. I would give Modern Warfare a 5* rating but for some proofing/editing issues that could/should have picked up. That said, I thoroughly enjoyed Syler and Arthur's story and I hope there'll be more in this series. 4.5* rounded up.

A copy was provided by GRR in exchange for an honest review.
432 reviews11 followers
September 8, 2020
Opposites attract, there's no doubt about it in Sylers' and Arthurs' case, but can they build a life together? Socially awkward tech genius Syler is still clueless how to navigate the relationship and he gets over the top protective after Arthurs' close call in Moscow. They both fear that they'll lose the other, each for different reasons, but voicing their fears it's not easy for them.
I was hooked after reading just a few pages in the book one of this series and this sequel didn't disappoint. Sarcastic humor, a bit of action, sweet and passionate relationship in making... I couldn't ask for more. It made me grin from ear to ear and stole some hours of my sleep because I couldn't put it down. Brilliantly written and well researched on the tech side. I know I said it before but I'll do it again: If this was made into a TV series it would be a hit! The ending doesn't suggest that there will be book three but I'm hoping for one. I would love to know what trouble one of my favorite couples in MM fiction could get into in the future.
Profile Image for isthisakink.
1,226 reviews23 followers
January 29, 2023
Same issues, different plot…

I wrote an extremely detailed review for the first book outlining all the issues that drug the rating down. Inconsistencies, editing fails, et cetera.

The only improvement was a little more Arthur, but it was still pretty insubstantial whenever his POV came up. I did get a bit more of his inner dialogue and backstory, though, and that was nice. I could’ve done with more but it was much better than book one, so I’ll take it.

We got even less backstory on Syler, but still a bit more than Arthur. It makes me really want a book three to find out even more. With such a long epilogue, however, I feel like maybe if there was a third book coming, it would follow different MCs.

All in all, still loved it. Loved the plot, the characters and how they interacted, and loved the relationship that continued to build. I like seeing characters grow together. It’s not all time gaps and filler, rather you get a lot of them learning and adapting to life with each other together. It’s always nice to get away from instalove once in a while. 3.5/5.
116 reviews
August 31, 2020
Spies and explosions and romance, what more could you want?

This is the second in the series, and while you arguably could read it as a stand-alone, it makes a lot more sense when you read in order.

The romance is the over-arching theme of both books, but like many good crime or action books there’s plenty of plot there too. The characters follow the typical suave spy and nerdy hacker tropes, but they do it in such a way that they’re still human and likeable.

I have nowhere near enough technical know-how to say how accurate the computer-based bits are, but they make for good reading anyway. There are a few typos here and there that may be a problem for anyone who finds that kind of thing irritating, but in my opinion they were nowhere near enough to detract from the story. Good plot, good action, good time had by all.
Profile Image for Raven and Chris.
3,299 reviews30 followers
September 1, 2020
I loved these guys from book 1 and could not wait to get my hands on this sequel. Syler and Arthur are facing a leak in the agency. Arthur's identity is compromised on a mission and Syler takes it very personally. When 2 more agents are also compromised, it can't be a simple mistake. I also love how these guys are growing in their relationship and realizing their shifting priorities in life. This book was awesome. Just enough espionage and action to keep it rolling and lots of laughs and good times between friends and lovers. This is a really good book. Honestly, I hope Valerie keeps writing about these guys. I would love to see more about them and even more about their colleagues as the agency changes. An excellent book!!!!
Profile Image for Maggie.
231 reviews10 followers
September 11, 2020
4.5 out of 5 stars from me for this 2nd book in the series (hopefully there will be more!)

I do love me a good spy romance and this delivers on all fronts. I thoroughly fell in love with Syler Perrin, the snarktastic geek of a deputy-director in the intelligence division of the CIA, and top secret agent spy operative Arthur Dufault. Their opposites attract dynamic works wonderfully and their relationship is still absolutely adorable.

I loved the comedy, the sass, the awkwardness and I totally _felt_ Syler's need to be perfect and keep his people safe.

Definitely a fun read, definitely a super cute super couple and definitely an amazingly good and entertaining story by the author. Here's hoping we'll see more of these two in the future!
Profile Image for Edga.
2,247 reviews23 followers
September 8, 2020
First class second book in the series.

Loved this follow up. There’s so much action and mystery in this book and it’s skillfully woven with the developing romance between Author and Syler . I think my favorite thing about these two is that they’re incredibly flawed yet so likeable. It made getting to the ending that much better. I loved the story, it's edgy and gritty, with a lot of suspense. Arthur and Syler are a couple of odd bods who are perfect for one another, I absolutely loved the developments in their relationship and, despite the drama, they had me laughing out loud moments soon after. I highly recommend this and the first book in the series.
Profile Image for Shannon.
431 reviews7 followers
August 29, 2020
The second book in the Covert Affairs series is just as fun as the first.

Arthur and Syler are learning the ins and outs of a relationship within the company and it’s a messy messy thing.
They are two sweet men with different obsessions trying to find their place and hoping their partner won’t give up.

And since it’s Arthur and Syler, lots of things go boom in the meantime.

There are still some editing issues and repetitive quibbles but the story is strong and I enjoyed it immensely.

I received a copy for an honest review
Profile Image for Janet Hunt.
3,538 reviews46 followers
September 2, 2020
Arthur and Syler are back!! We rejoin their story about 3 months later. Things have happened that have left Syler devastated. We get to watch them navigate the aftermath. I love these two so much! They are real, so many emotions pouring off the pages, danger, action, adventure, insecurities, romance, and love! There were a lot of side characters to this story, they were great. They really helped to make the story even better. Absolutely loved it!! I am voluntarily leaving a review form an ARC that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
Profile Image for Rachwithheadinabook.
1,895 reviews
September 10, 2020
OMG this is good

I loved Arthur and Syler, the way that they bicker and snipe at each other is so realistic. In this second book their relationship is moving along nicely until Arthur is hurt out in the field, while home both of them realise that communication and choosing each other is key to a long happy relationship #relationship goals. Of course there is catastrophes, explosions and a parental visits to contend with too. I love this series and want more. It gets all the recommendations.
Profile Image for Dixiecowgirl.
1,437 reviews25 followers
September 10, 2020
There is plenty of action, suspense, intrigue and love!  I was so excited to see more of Syler and Arthur!  These MC's were great in book one, but this book was even more enjoyable for me.  There is plenty of action, suspense, intrigue and love.  The writing was good and the pacing excellent.  The supporting characters are great!  Just so many things to love about this book!  

This is book two of the A Covert Affairs series and really would be best to be read in sequence!  

I was gifted this book from Gay Romance Reviews and i freely give my honest opinion and review    
Profile Image for Ida Umphers.
5,543 reviews48 followers
September 11, 2020
I somehow expected this series to be rather dark, but it is unexpectedly light. Here, Syler and Arthur continue trying to build their opposites attract relationship while dealing with injury, moles in the organization, trying family members and just the general stresses and strains of any new relationship. Fortunately, these two guys are pros and extremely hot together so they are able to continue to navigate the bumps in the personal road while hunting out the mole in their midst. Love this series!
492 reviews3 followers
September 12, 2020
Holy scrap on a cracker!

Fantastic. Phenomenal. Simply fabulous.

This book has EVERYTHING. Just as good as the first. Action packed, insanely hilarious, all the feels and all the smexiness. The writing is smart and fun. The pacing of this book is just sheer perfection. Syler and Arthur are REAL. So much depth and character growth.

This author so amazing, I would highly recommend and need to find more of their work. The series has massive re-read potential and I might start immediately on that!

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