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Subject 13
Luke Kincaid's life is exploding all around him. First his lover leaves him to marry a woman, then childhood nightmares return with a vengeance.
Luke’s friendship with Ben Skinner and relationship with Kyle Morgan helps him heal his broken heart, but the nightmares, which are actually repressed memories, threaten to destroy the peace he has found.
Soon, Luke’s investigation into his past puts his life—and the lives of the people he cares about—in danger. But he refuses to give up, not even when he finds out he is connected to a massive government cover-up...
Luke’s friendship with Ben Skinner and relationship with Kyle Morgan helps him heal his broken heart, but the nightmares, which are actually repressed memories, threaten to destroy the peace he has found.
Soon, Luke’s investigation into his past puts his life—and the lives of the people he cares about—in danger. But he refuses to give up, not even when he finds out he is connected to a massive government cover-up...
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published March 24, 2012
3 people are currently reading
211 people want to read
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November 23, 2017DNF 60% I´m done! I was really liking the mystery about the MCs identity and the main characters!!
BUT sorry, I cant stand anymore the two of them, who are clearly in love, having detailed sex scenes with other people continuosly. Not for me :/
BUT sorry, I cant stand anymore the two of them, who are clearly in love, having detailed sex scenes with other people continuosly. Not for me :/
March 27, 2012
3,5 stars
Quiet entertaining,not to be taken seriously(at least I hope so...),fast paced mystery romance.
Nice mystery about an experiment with biological weapons gone wrong and survivor Luke trying too find his true identity that requires suspension of disbelief.In the second part of the book too much is too neatly solved to be believable.(A number secured secret tresor opened after a few attempts with using birthday dates...oh,please...!)
Likeable characters with the ability of partly being incredibly dumb and in the next instant almost mind reading...
A lot of secondary characters but it didn`t get too confusing and the villain actually was a surprise (and a little far fetched,IMO)...so far so good...
But...the romance...
I quote Ben`s mother:"The big pink cake"!
Luke is dumped by Shane who`s off to marry straight Ben`s sister Elaine.Secretly in love with Ben Luke makes out with Kyle whith whom he can be the one "in charge" what never happened in his relationship with Shane,who is-of course-an asshole...and Ben - no,that would be a spoiler....clear so far?
Gay stereotypes galore!
But the "best" parts were the sex scenes! Most of them didn`t contribute to the story so I just skimmed through them in the second part of the book.Leaning on the raunchy side I don`t know if they were supposed to be hot but I found them rather funny...
The Falcon studios decorated with pink bunnies and Mary Poppins flying over the roof - two porn actors trying the dirty talk but failing miserably and accidentally slipping into purple prose now and then...laughed my ass off...sorry!
Quiet entertaining,not to be taken seriously(at least I hope so...),fast paced mystery romance.
Nice mystery about an experiment with biological weapons gone wrong and survivor Luke trying too find his true identity that requires suspension of disbelief.In the second part of the book too much is too neatly solved to be believable.(A number secured secret tresor opened after a few attempts with using birthday dates...oh,please...!)
Likeable characters with the ability of partly being incredibly dumb and in the next instant almost mind reading...
A lot of secondary characters but it didn`t get too confusing and the villain actually was a surprise (and a little far fetched,IMO)...so far so good...
But...the romance...
I quote Ben`s mother:"The big pink cake"!
Luke is dumped by Shane who`s off to marry straight Ben`s sister Elaine.Secretly in love with Ben Luke makes out with Kyle whith whom he can be the one "in charge" what never happened in his relationship with Shane,who is-of course-an asshole...and Ben - no,that would be a spoiler....clear so far?
Gay stereotypes galore!
But the "best" parts were the sex scenes! Most of them didn`t contribute to the story so I just skimmed through them in the second part of the book.Leaning on the raunchy side I don`t know if they were supposed to be hot but I found them rather funny...
The Falcon studios decorated with pink bunnies and Mary Poppins flying over the roof - two porn actors trying the dirty talk but failing miserably and accidentally slipping into purple prose now and then...laughed my ass off...sorry!
March 31, 2012
This is one of those books you are going to want to sit and read in one sitting. The characters involved are well-defined, dynamic, and mostly drama free. I think the romance between the couple was very believable and kept my interest because it felt genuine in it's simplicity. And the mystery/conflict of this story was very original, allowing the reader to guess at some things and be surprised about others. Every time I thought I knew where it was going, it went somewhere else completely.
The Characters:
There are a lot. Anyone following my reviews knows that I like a good supporting cast since love very rarely thrives in a bubble. There were friends, roommates, bosses, pseudo-adopted family, other "subjects", doctors, military, scientists, reporters, and a crazy ex and his wife. Everyone had a part to play, either in support or as a catalyst to keep pushing for answers. I'm glad that there were times when they disagreed or got in each other's way, but it didn't fall into a grudge match or become part of some big misunderstanding that derailed the story.
The Romance:
I have to be a little vague since, like most of the Ethan Stone's stories I've read, it is not 100% clear who the main character will end up with until more than halfway through the book. I think that is because of his realistic approach to coupling. Luke finds out his very long-time - but very in the closet - boyfriend has a very public fiancee in a town 2 hours away. Left with a broken heart and no strings for the first time since puberty, yeah, Luke has some screwing to do.
It would have been understandable if Luke had gone totally off the rails here ... as his inner dialogue told us he wanted. But small towns have a way of limiting opportunities so he was able to find a release without going completely nuts. And while individually these resulting sex scenes were great fun, well written and provided needed insight into Luke's personality as he tried to be honest and generous with his lovers, I would have preferred a few of them to have faded to black a little sooner ... leaving the hottest scenes for later.
But once Luke made sense of what he was feeling and who he was feeling it for ... it was game on. Ethan has a way of cutting through the needless drama and laying it all out there. It isn't that Luke and his Man are easy, far from it. They definitely have a few freak out moments. But they deal with it instead of dragging it out. There are plenty of "aww" moments for the overly-romantic types without being too fluffy for us more cynical types.
And it is all kept honest ... no lying, or sneaking, or cheating from the main players. Which goes for the mystery/thriller, as well.
The Story:
After a personal shock, Luke begins having nightmares he hasn't had since he was a child. Convinced it is more than just his imagination, Luke is determined to find answers. I think it begins as a way to get his mind off the ex, but quickly becomes something more. Explanations come slowly at first, seemingly random and vague. I quickly got the "blue man" connection but almost everything else after that was a complete mystery no matter how I tried to look at it. A few hunches, but otherwise just along for the ride. I was surprised as one secret after another was revealed. Looking back, I can see where the clues were cleverly hidden in plain sight, but in all the twists and turns I didn't see them coming while I was reading.
The story wraps up with a satisfying ending and a nicely done, subtle cliffhanger that has me craving a book two.
The Characters:
There are a lot. Anyone following my reviews knows that I like a good supporting cast since love very rarely thrives in a bubble. There were friends, roommates, bosses, pseudo-adopted family, other "subjects", doctors, military, scientists, reporters, and a crazy ex and his wife. Everyone had a part to play, either in support or as a catalyst to keep pushing for answers. I'm glad that there were times when they disagreed or got in each other's way, but it didn't fall into a grudge match or become part of some big misunderstanding that derailed the story.
The Romance:
I have to be a little vague since, like most of the Ethan Stone's stories I've read, it is not 100% clear who the main character will end up with until more than halfway through the book. I think that is because of his realistic approach to coupling. Luke finds out his very long-time - but very in the closet - boyfriend has a very public fiancee in a town 2 hours away. Left with a broken heart and no strings for the first time since puberty, yeah, Luke has some screwing to do.
It would have been understandable if Luke had gone totally off the rails here ... as his inner dialogue told us he wanted. But small towns have a way of limiting opportunities so he was able to find a release without going completely nuts. And while individually these resulting sex scenes were great fun, well written and provided needed insight into Luke's personality as he tried to be honest and generous with his lovers, I would have preferred a few of them to have faded to black a little sooner ... leaving the hottest scenes for later.
But once Luke made sense of what he was feeling and who he was feeling it for ... it was game on. Ethan has a way of cutting through the needless drama and laying it all out there. It isn't that Luke and his Man are easy, far from it. They definitely have a few freak out moments. But they deal with it instead of dragging it out. There are plenty of "aww" moments for the overly-romantic types without being too fluffy for us more cynical types.
And it is all kept honest ... no lying, or sneaking, or cheating from the main players. Which goes for the mystery/thriller, as well.
The Story:
After a personal shock, Luke begins having nightmares he hasn't had since he was a child. Convinced it is more than just his imagination, Luke is determined to find answers. I think it begins as a way to get his mind off the ex, but quickly becomes something more. Explanations come slowly at first, seemingly random and vague. I quickly got the "blue man" connection but almost everything else after that was a complete mystery no matter how I tried to look at it. A few hunches, but otherwise just along for the ride. I was surprised as one secret after another was revealed. Looking back, I can see where the clues were cleverly hidden in plain sight, but in all the twists and turns I didn't see them coming while I was reading.
The story wraps up with a satisfying ending and a nicely done, subtle cliffhanger that has me craving a book two.
March 27, 2012
3.5 stars
Probably should head on to Simsala's review, as it is one of the earliest for this one ^_^ (Yes, I'm being a lazy girl)
Aaaanyway, it's a decent if not inspirational lacking (in the romance department anyway) story that combines contemporary-sort-of-gay-for-you (except that the supposedly straight turns out to be gay after all) and mystery.
Luke's history starts when he was six years old after being found in a desert. He doesn't have recollection of his life before that (though I admit, I have a hard time to think about my life at the age of 1-5 years old as well). The mystery relates to this, because along the way, Luke discovers what happened in his life before. The romance part relates to Luke, finding out his boyfriend gets married to a girl, and find consolation (and later love) from his best friend (who is supposedly straight).
The story is light, the pace is pretty quick, the narration of Luke (it's 1st person writing) is easy to follow and he's quite likeable. But the mystery is also light, and it's choc full of sex scenes which I'm not sure even important most of the times. The best part is probably the epilogue, because it adds a mystery nuance to the whole conspiration.
Probably should head on to Simsala's review, as it is one of the earliest for this one ^_^ (Yes, I'm being a lazy girl)
Aaaanyway, it's a decent if not inspirational lacking (in the romance department anyway) story that combines contemporary-sort-of-gay-for-you (except that the supposedly straight turns out to be gay after all) and mystery.
Luke's history starts when he was six years old after being found in a desert. He doesn't have recollection of his life before that (though I admit, I have a hard time to think about my life at the age of 1-5 years old as well). The mystery relates to this, because along the way, Luke discovers what happened in his life before. The romance part relates to Luke, finding out his boyfriend gets married to a girl, and find consolation (and later love) from his best friend (who is supposedly straight).
The story is light, the pace is pretty quick, the narration of Luke (it's 1st person writing) is easy to follow and he's quite likeable. But the mystery is also light, and it's choc full of sex scenes which I'm not sure even important most of the times. The best part is probably the epilogue, because it adds a mystery nuance to the whole conspiration.
September 23, 2015
****Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance®****
I want to preface this with the fact that Brandilyn reviewed the ebook [for Prism] and gave Subject 13 4.5 Stars.
Normally we review the narration and the story separate for audiobooks, however my feelings on this book is so tied up with the narration that I’m going to do it together. I wanted to like this book; the blurb really drew me in. I think I may have enjoyed it more if I had read it instead of listened to it. As it was, I was left feeling less than happy with it.
I found the letters at the beginning of each chapter, from the mysterious “D.G.”, confusing at first. They were narrated in such a creepy way that switching to Luke’s common everyday tone felt jarring and like I was missing something. Once I settled into the main narrative, I found some of the voices off putting. Ben, unfortunately, sounded like someone’s attempt to imitate Batman. This became hilarious during the sex scenes rather than sexy; not the effect I think they were going for.
Another thing that threw me out of the story was that every once in a while there would be these random thoughts narrated in an echoey voice that I think was supposed to represent Luke thinking to himself. They happened during stressful events; bullets would be flying but then he would think something like “Tacos sound good for dinner. I would really like to watch Howard the Duck tonight”. I think in text it would have been funny and neurotic, but in the narration it was just weird.
Narration aside, there is lots of intrigue. You are not sure who to trust. I liked the tension. I felt that the sex sometimes happened at the wrong times though and interfered with it. That they are in danger and the suspense is growing but they take a sex break? It just didn’t fit to me.
Ben and Luke seem to work together; I really liked the Sheriff and Kyle as characters. However, there were a few words used that I didn’t care for personally and combined with the narration made this less than enjoyable for me. I hope some time in the future I can give it another chance and read it for myself.
I want to preface this with the fact that Brandilyn reviewed the ebook [for Prism] and gave Subject 13 4.5 Stars.
Normally we review the narration and the story separate for audiobooks, however my feelings on this book is so tied up with the narration that I’m going to do it together. I wanted to like this book; the blurb really drew me in. I think I may have enjoyed it more if I had read it instead of listened to it. As it was, I was left feeling less than happy with it.
I found the letters at the beginning of each chapter, from the mysterious “D.G.”, confusing at first. They were narrated in such a creepy way that switching to Luke’s common everyday tone felt jarring and like I was missing something. Once I settled into the main narrative, I found some of the voices off putting. Ben, unfortunately, sounded like someone’s attempt to imitate Batman. This became hilarious during the sex scenes rather than sexy; not the effect I think they were going for.
Another thing that threw me out of the story was that every once in a while there would be these random thoughts narrated in an echoey voice that I think was supposed to represent Luke thinking to himself. They happened during stressful events; bullets would be flying but then he would think something like “Tacos sound good for dinner. I would really like to watch Howard the Duck tonight”. I think in text it would have been funny and neurotic, but in the narration it was just weird.
Narration aside, there is lots of intrigue. You are not sure who to trust. I liked the tension. I felt that the sex sometimes happened at the wrong times though and interfered with it. That they are in danger and the suspense is growing but they take a sex break? It just didn’t fit to me.
Ben and Luke seem to work together; I really liked the Sheriff and Kyle as characters. However, there were a few words used that I didn’t care for personally and combined with the narration made this less than enjoyable for me. I hope some time in the future I can give it another chance and read it for myself.
May 16, 2014
A review by The Blogger Girls.
I really enjoyed the feel of this story. The main theme here is the mystery, with the actual relationship taking kind of a back seat. At the center of it all is Luke, who, after a failed attempt to win back his “boyfriend” from marrying a woman, ends up finding love with his childhood best friend, Ben. Ben, all along, has claimed he is straight, but had really only been suppressing feelings for Luke. Almost all of the characters involved here are connected to Luke in one way or another.
Going back to the mystery, we are told little bits at the beginning of each chapter through short notes on the status of the mysterious project and the 13 subjects. I loved these little tidbits into the madman’s mind. Some of the subjects have died, some were eliminated, some are missing, etc. Luke had a very strange childhood, in that he was found in the dessert and then adopted. But, he is beginning to remember things, having flashes of memories, as well as dreams/nightmares he hasn’t had since he was young. When various people begin asking odd questions, Luke decides he needs to find out the truth, and Ben is right by his side through it all.
This reminded me a tiny bit of a cross between a John Saul or Dean Koontz book and the movie Conspiracy Theory. With the whole “Area 51″ feel, you’re not entirely sure what really happened there, and even though the sex scenes were hot, and the romance good, I found myself almost wanting to skim those parts just to get to the bottom of all the secrets. There are still a lot of questions or what ifs left at the end, such as Luke’s health. Will he contract the same health issues as the other subjects? And, just when you think most everything is solved, and those behind the project are in custody, there is the epilogue, which throws a whole other wrench into things. I really hope there is another story brewing about this, because I am definitely interested in learning more.
May 10, 2012
Didn't connect with the main character at all, which is a huge problem when the story is told in first person pov. I tried to laugh off the silly plot, weirdly interesting sex scenes and so-so romance, but I just couldn't enjoy the book.
1.25. stars
1.25. stars
February 11, 2017
4.5*
Luke has not had the best of lives. He was found alone in a field at a young age. His adoptive parents have died, and his long-time lover leaves him in order to marry a woman. What else can go wrong? Well, he can fall for his straight childhood friend and current roommate… Oh and he can have these repressed memories haunt him and people wanting him dead. Yep, Luke is not in the best of places.
This book is about more than just a friends-to-lovers second chance love story. It is, also, about more than just the classic “man on the run” scenario, (there is your daily earworm). You get to watch genuine affection develop into more. You get to watch two men who are perfect for each other work together to fight the unseen and an unknown evil… even when said evil might just be closer than they think.
Find the Full review at Prism Book Alliance http://www.prismbookalliance.com/?pos...
Luke has not had the best of lives. He was found alone in a field at a young age. His adoptive parents have died, and his long-time lover leaves him in order to marry a woman. What else can go wrong? Well, he can fall for his straight childhood friend and current roommate… Oh and he can have these repressed memories haunt him and people wanting him dead. Yep, Luke is not in the best of places.
This book is about more than just a friends-to-lovers second chance love story. It is, also, about more than just the classic “man on the run” scenario, (there is your daily earworm). You get to watch genuine affection develop into more. You get to watch two men who are perfect for each other work together to fight the unseen and an unknown evil… even when said evil might just be closer than they think.
Find the Full review at Prism Book Alliance http://www.prismbookalliance.com/?pos...
June 11, 2016
It's more 2.5 stars, really. I was really disappointed with this one.
I'm sorry because the reading wasn't so bad, but the sex is too much and it's not combined with the story and even if I liked Luke and Ben, Luke is not a good character: I mean he is a young man but he seems a teenager. His past is dark and misterious and he has just started to dig in it and a lot of things are happening (things that are dangerous for him and for all the people near him) and he think only about the sex. Yes, this is a really mature behavior! And when he speaks? He seems a teenager, too! The lines are the typical teenager line and (here I use the italian words because I read the italian edition but I think that in the original they were "fuck" and "fuck you") in every other sentence he says: "fanculo" or "vaffanculo". It's really too much!!!
https://theroadtohellispavedwithbooks...
I'm sorry because the reading wasn't so bad, but the sex is too much and it's not combined with the story and even if I liked Luke and Ben, Luke is not a good character: I mean he is a young man but he seems a teenager. His past is dark and misterious and he has just started to dig in it and a lot of things are happening (things that are dangerous for him and for all the people near him) and he think only about the sex. Yes, this is a really mature behavior! And when he speaks? He seems a teenager, too! The lines are the typical teenager line and (here I use the italian words because I read the italian edition but I think that in the original they were "fuck" and "fuck you") in every other sentence he says: "fanculo" or "vaffanculo". It's really too much!!!
https://theroadtohellispavedwithbooks...
April 7, 2012
Wow this book was so good and it had me guessing and I didn't always guess right! Normally I get something right but I really didn't this time. I don't want to give anything away it's one of those if I tell you anything little it can ruin it. It has lots of mystery that will have you turning the pages to find out what happens.
September 8, 2015
I beta read this edition some time ago, and I really enjoyed the story although I had lots of questions at the end, and hoped for a sequel.
February 13, 2016
Qui la mia recensione:
http://mmedintorni.blogspot.it/2016/0...
http://mmedintorni.blogspot.it/2016/0...
February 26, 2016
Ma che fatica ho fatto a finirlo !!! :(
November 24, 2019
Lukes world is turned upside down when his long time lover decides to marry a woman. After trying to crash the wedding he finds himself staying with his old friend Ben Skinner who is now a local cop. It also turns out the Ben's sister is the woman Luke's lover married! As Luke tries to figure out his life, strange things start to happen and memories from his past start to resurface. As Ben tries to help Luke figure out what he is remembering about his past they find themselves dodging bullets.
This book surprised me a little. I didn't expect too much from it and I found myself really liking it. The mystery surrounding Lukes past is fascinating. There is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end which could lead to another book, which I really hope he decides to write.
This book surprised me a little. I didn't expect too much from it and I found myself really liking it. The mystery surrounding Lukes past is fascinating. There is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end which could lead to another book, which I really hope he decides to write.
May 22, 2018
My thoughts: I give it ❤️❤️❤️ . This was a surprisingly good story. This is a new author for me and I wasn't sure if I would like it. I don't particularly like 'repressed memory and amnesia' stories but this was actually different. The ending could have been a bit more complex and it ended in a kinda clifferhanger-ish conclusion but the MC's had an HEA that was believable. I don't know if this is part of a series but if it is I know I will read this author again.
November 19, 2017
I'm not sure what bothered me in the story of Subject 13, hm. In general, sure its a mysterious storyline about military cover ups and a romance between Luke and Ben, which wasn't good. There were to many sex scenes between others and when Ben admitted having feelings for Luke it wasn't believable. I disliked most of Luke and Ben romance and was glad when this book ended.
November 16, 2019
This was an absolute rollercoaster ride of an adventure! I was completely entranced by the story from the beginning and loved John Solo's narration. The mystery and romance were great and the ending left me with my mouth hanging open.
February 6, 2020
What a different Surprise. New auther to me new narrator. Different plot different story different way of narrating. It was so good. It really pulled me in from the beginning.
Not the last time i try bouth out.
Not the last time i try bouth out.
August 19, 2020
✔ Ri-Letto! Bellissimo il libro, però che ca@@o di epilogo è questo. Ma secondo voi chi è DG?
Ethan Stone ha lasciato una marea di spunti per altri 3 libri di sicuro : justin, jagger(?) e Kyle.
Per me è ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
Ethan Stone ha lasciato una marea di spunti per altri 3 libri di sicuro : justin, jagger(?) e Kyle.
Per me è ❤ ❤ ❤ ❤
August 24, 2020
An entertaining, government's conspiration-based mystery.
It's not bad, but it's not re-reading material for me. The characters aren't very well developed, the romance is rushed and there are too many S/d undertones to my taste.
John Solo did a good job with the narration.
It's not bad, but it's not re-reading material for me. The characters aren't very well developed, the romance is rushed and there are too many S/d undertones to my taste.
John Solo did a good job with the narration.
July 6, 2017
3 stelle e mezza
maybe
January 20, 2024READ LATEST EDITION
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June 23, 2024Good story. Enjoyed the twists and turns, the conspiracy, the steamy scenes.
May 17, 2012
4 Hearts
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Luke’s life is forever altered when he tries to convince the man he loves not to marry a woman. Things go from bad to worse when he starts to have nightmares. With the help of his friend Ben, along with his new friend, Kyle, they begin to piece together Luke’s past. But, someone doesn’t want him to remember and the deeper he digs and the more that is revealed, the more danger they are all in.
This is a great suspense, mystery, thriller with a touch of detection work thrown in, that will intrigue and hold you gripped as you delve into a cover-up. Luke is devastated when his lover informs him that he is marrying a woman. He decides that he will convince Shane he is wrong, but he is left heartbroken. When his childhood nightmares plague him again, he discovers that they are real memories and when a visit to a ghost town jogs something loose, he sets out to investigate it.
I really enjoyed this story and thought the plot was really good. The suspense of who is after him, the mystery of who is behind it all and why, and the thrill of someone hunting Luke. It starts out simple enough, childhood nightmares of blue men, but then he starts to remember more, and then Ben takes Luke to a ghost town which reveals more memories, which leads to hunting down more information and survivors of the disaster there. It’s all very well written and woven together, and you end up trying to piece together the pieces yourself and imagining what the disaster really was, and who was really behind it and revising your thoughts when more clues are add… it was great fun.
The romance side was much more complicated, and at times it felt like Ben had two personalities; the completely straight man, who had never had a homosexual thought in his life and then the gay man, who had slept his way through as many men as he could. The conflict within Ben felt realistic at first, because it felt like it may have been a ‘gay for you’ and he was conflicted by it. But, then I found that it disappointed me, when I realized that he’d had a ton of gay sex before but put on a front of being straight, even going so far as to have a girlfriend. Luke is attracted to Ben and he ends up confused as well with Ben’s actions, but Luke also, at first, seeks comfort in the arms of Kyle who he can take control with and call all the shots. Don’t get me wrong the romance is good, just complicated, and the sex is plentiful, hot and varied .
So, I will recommend this to those who love government cover-ups, suspense, mystery, thrillers, hot sex, relationship woes, danger and a happy ending? P.S. the epilogue was great… could it mean a sequel?
First published at MM Good Book Reviews
http://mmgoodbookreviews.wordpress.co...
Luke’s life is forever altered when he tries to convince the man he loves not to marry a woman. Things go from bad to worse when he starts to have nightmares. With the help of his friend Ben, along with his new friend, Kyle, they begin to piece together Luke’s past. But, someone doesn’t want him to remember and the deeper he digs and the more that is revealed, the more danger they are all in.
This is a great suspense, mystery, thriller with a touch of detection work thrown in, that will intrigue and hold you gripped as you delve into a cover-up. Luke is devastated when his lover informs him that he is marrying a woman. He decides that he will convince Shane he is wrong, but he is left heartbroken. When his childhood nightmares plague him again, he discovers that they are real memories and when a visit to a ghost town jogs something loose, he sets out to investigate it.
I really enjoyed this story and thought the plot was really good. The suspense of who is after him, the mystery of who is behind it all and why, and the thrill of someone hunting Luke. It starts out simple enough, childhood nightmares of blue men, but then he starts to remember more, and then Ben takes Luke to a ghost town which reveals more memories, which leads to hunting down more information and survivors of the disaster there. It’s all very well written and woven together, and you end up trying to piece together the pieces yourself and imagining what the disaster really was, and who was really behind it and revising your thoughts when more clues are add… it was great fun.
The romance side was much more complicated, and at times it felt like Ben had two personalities; the completely straight man, who had never had a homosexual thought in his life and then the gay man, who had slept his way through as many men as he could. The conflict within Ben felt realistic at first, because it felt like it may have been a ‘gay for you’ and he was conflicted by it. But, then I found that it disappointed me, when I realized that he’d had a ton of gay sex before but put on a front of being straight, even going so far as to have a girlfriend. Luke is attracted to Ben and he ends up confused as well with Ben’s actions, but Luke also, at first, seeks comfort in the arms of Kyle who he can take control with and call all the shots. Don’t get me wrong the romance is good, just complicated, and the sex is plentiful, hot and varied .
So, I will recommend this to those who love government cover-ups, suspense, mystery, thrillers, hot sex, relationship woes, danger and a happy ending? P.S. the epilogue was great… could it mean a sequel?
October 29, 2017
I first read this on or before August 4th,2013. Which is before I was actively using GdRds. It never got marked as read, though it had been rated. I recently decided to reread it. I couldn't remember anything about it, other than there was something I really liked about it.
I enjoyed it once again, so its 4 stars will remain. There were definitely some flaws, but many of those fall to the editing and /or the formatting process of being turned into an eBook. For example, the letter "e" was randomly placed at odd places 100s of times or more.
An example of an editing issue,at least for me, were the shifts between "scenes". Changes in time or events were signified with new paragraphs. But it would have made the story much smoother, if it could have been designated by some other type of break too like multiple ******* etc... More than once I was pulled from the story as my brain tried to catch up with a sudden shift; e.g., a change in where the characters were between one paragraph and the next.
Now, let me share what really impressed me. I am also guessing it is what left a lasting impression, because it is so often missing in others (even stories written well otherwise). I don't know the correct verbiage or terms, so hopefully I can explain. A wordsmith, I am not.
The author did an amazing job setting up links (seemingly small details) in the beginning; That later popped up to answer questions or more plausibly paved the way for what happened. I could give numerous examples, but I will pick one that is a small, and not really "spoiler-ish". Kyle - Ben explains he got his high profile job (unlike the other aide) due to his family money and political / military connections. At the time, it just seems like info to understand him as a character. But, that tidbit gave credence to him later on having the knowledge or at least the resources to find an old Navy decryption key. It also prevented an eye roll inducing moment when we learn his brother is a highly placed aide in the government with access to important people to get the ball rolling. It was a very nice change to have the actual groundwork layed before what seems too easy a resolution.
I also loved the random inner dialog going on at the most inappropriate times. Probably because I could relate more than I care to admit. The sex scenes definitely felt more authentic as in a male author.
That being said, there were issues. The ending felt rushed as did some of the wrap up, but none if it hampered my enjoyment. I don't think there is a sequel, though it seems like one was intended. But if there is one, I would definitely read it.
I enjoyed it once again, so its 4 stars will remain. There were definitely some flaws, but many of those fall to the editing and /or the formatting process of being turned into an eBook. For example, the letter "e" was randomly placed at odd places 100s of times or more.
An example of an editing issue,at least for me, were the shifts between "scenes". Changes in time or events were signified with new paragraphs. But it would have made the story much smoother, if it could have been designated by some other type of break too like multiple ******* etc... More than once I was pulled from the story as my brain tried to catch up with a sudden shift; e.g., a change in where the characters were between one paragraph and the next.
Now, let me share what really impressed me. I am also guessing it is what left a lasting impression, because it is so often missing in others (even stories written well otherwise). I don't know the correct verbiage or terms, so hopefully I can explain. A wordsmith, I am not.
The author did an amazing job setting up links (seemingly small details) in the beginning; That later popped up to answer questions or more plausibly paved the way for what happened. I could give numerous examples, but I will pick one that is a small, and not really "spoiler-ish". Kyle - Ben explains he got his high profile job (unlike the other aide) due to his family money and political / military connections. At the time, it just seems like info to understand him as a character. But, that tidbit gave credence to him later on having the knowledge or at least the resources to find an old Navy decryption key. It also prevented an eye roll inducing moment when we learn his brother is a highly placed aide in the government with access to important people to get the ball rolling. It was a very nice change to have the actual groundwork layed before what seems too easy a resolution.
I also loved the random inner dialog going on at the most inappropriate times. Probably because I could relate more than I care to admit. The sex scenes definitely felt more authentic as in a male author.
That being said, there were issues. The ending felt rushed as did some of the wrap up, but none if it hampered my enjoyment. I don't think there is a sequel, though it seems like one was intended. But if there is one, I would definitely read it.
February 22, 2016
Romance and Fantasy for Cosmopolitan Girls
I migliori libri m/m, a mio parere, solitamente sono quelli scritti da autori maschi, probabilmente perché loro sanno realmente ciò di cui si tratta. A volte, però, il tocco romantico sfugge ed il sesso prende il primo posto nella narrazione. Dalla trama di questa storia mi aspettavo un intrigo governativo che, sicuramente presente, ma relegato quasi da “sfondo” alla narrazione.
Luke non ricorda nulla della sua vita antecedente a sei anni quando è stato ritrovato in un deserto del Nevada e poi adottato. Non si è mai fatto un cruccio di ciò, a volte aveva incubi con strani “omini blu”, ma ha vissuto normalmente la sua vita fino ai ventisei anni. Tutto d’un tratto, però, tutto cambia, il suo fidanzato lo molla per sposare una donna, un vecchio amico diventa un’insperata spalla su cui piangere, conosce un ammiraglio ambiguo e i sogni tornano con prepotenza.
Ben dal canto suo è un vice sceriffo di provincia, fidanzato e tranquillo. Almeno all’apparenza. Quando incontra Luke al matrimonio della sua sorellastra lo prende sotto la sua ala visto il suo stato pietoso per il fidanzato traditore.
Quello che mi è parso forzato è l’atteggiamento molto etero di Ben che tutto d’un tratto vira al super gay millantando un’attrazione decennale per Luke, fin dai tempi del liceo, che sfocia in una molto precipitosa dichiarazione d’amore. Anche Luke che passa dal cuore a pezzi a scopate occasionali per poi finire a convivere (in tutti i sensi) con Ben mi è parso un po’ troppo affrettato.
La storia è comunque scorrevole e quando si entra nel vivo dei ricordi di Luke e del retroscena che il governo vuole occultare, i ritmi si fanno serrati fino all’epilogo che viene lasciato “aperto” per un secondo capitolo di questa serie.
Tutto sommato, nonostante le fin troppo abbondanti scene di sesso e spesso anche gratuite, è un libro che si lascia leggere e che lascia il lettore con il fiato sospeso anche se, a volte, gli escamotage della trama sono un po’ scontati.
I migliori libri m/m, a mio parere, solitamente sono quelli scritti da autori maschi, probabilmente perché loro sanno realmente ciò di cui si tratta. A volte, però, il tocco romantico sfugge ed il sesso prende il primo posto nella narrazione. Dalla trama di questa storia mi aspettavo un intrigo governativo che, sicuramente presente, ma relegato quasi da “sfondo” alla narrazione.
Luke non ricorda nulla della sua vita antecedente a sei anni quando è stato ritrovato in un deserto del Nevada e poi adottato. Non si è mai fatto un cruccio di ciò, a volte aveva incubi con strani “omini blu”, ma ha vissuto normalmente la sua vita fino ai ventisei anni. Tutto d’un tratto, però, tutto cambia, il suo fidanzato lo molla per sposare una donna, un vecchio amico diventa un’insperata spalla su cui piangere, conosce un ammiraglio ambiguo e i sogni tornano con prepotenza.
Ben dal canto suo è un vice sceriffo di provincia, fidanzato e tranquillo. Almeno all’apparenza. Quando incontra Luke al matrimonio della sua sorellastra lo prende sotto la sua ala visto il suo stato pietoso per il fidanzato traditore.
Quello che mi è parso forzato è l’atteggiamento molto etero di Ben che tutto d’un tratto vira al super gay millantando un’attrazione decennale per Luke, fin dai tempi del liceo, che sfocia in una molto precipitosa dichiarazione d’amore. Anche Luke che passa dal cuore a pezzi a scopate occasionali per poi finire a convivere (in tutti i sensi) con Ben mi è parso un po’ troppo affrettato.
La storia è comunque scorrevole e quando si entra nel vivo dei ricordi di Luke e del retroscena che il governo vuole occultare, i ritmi si fanno serrati fino all’epilogo che viene lasciato “aperto” per un secondo capitolo di questa serie.
Tutto sommato, nonostante le fin troppo abbondanti scene di sesso e spesso anche gratuite, è un libro che si lascia leggere e che lascia il lettore con il fiato sospeso anche se, a volte, gli escamotage della trama sono un po’ scontati.
June 3, 2012
Here we have Luke, our first person protagonist, who lost his birth parents to an experimental good-virus-turned-bad scenario that saw whole families die within a secret compound called "Oasis." As a very young child--after a great conflagration at Oasis--Luke was discovered half-dead in the desert, was apparently not affected by the nasty virus, was adopted by the local Sheriff, and grew up with the intense urge to discover the mystery behind Oasis, his parents' deaths, and his own childhood memories that had been lost to time. Okay. That's the main plot that also weaves within it the insidious machinations of those responsible for the virus/Oasis/death storyline.
Now, here is this apparently--obviously?--hot as a pistol young man, Luke, who cannot seem to find anyone who is not enamored of him. His boyfriend, Shane, decides to marry a woman but cannot keep his hands, um--other parts as well—off or out of Luke. There is Kyle who emerges from a public restroom encounter absolutely gaga for Luke. Then there’s Ben—an old childhood pal— who forsakes bedding women for Luke’s charms. Then incidental characters pop in (I’m thinking specifically of his new employer) who presumably happily give Luke the kind of deference he so obviously deserves because he is, well, Luke, and he’s adorable, and he’s hot, and he’s… You get the point.
The scenes devoted to the ol’ in/out (sex) were nicely done and somewhat relevant to the storyline in the first two-thirds of the novel. Hold onto your libido, however, during the final third. Wow! No, the scenes were not really that relevant to the storyline, and they came pretty much one after another, and, like I said, Wow!
Stone does a good job with the mystery aspect of the story, although by the end of the book where pretty much all is revealed, what I had surmised was what eventually occurred. All in all, Stone done good! And his fans will be satisfied.
Now, here is this apparently--obviously?--hot as a pistol young man, Luke, who cannot seem to find anyone who is not enamored of him. His boyfriend, Shane, decides to marry a woman but cannot keep his hands, um--other parts as well—off or out of Luke. There is Kyle who emerges from a public restroom encounter absolutely gaga for Luke. Then there’s Ben—an old childhood pal— who forsakes bedding women for Luke’s charms. Then incidental characters pop in (I’m thinking specifically of his new employer) who presumably happily give Luke the kind of deference he so obviously deserves because he is, well, Luke, and he’s adorable, and he’s hot, and he’s… You get the point.
The scenes devoted to the ol’ in/out (sex) were nicely done and somewhat relevant to the storyline in the first two-thirds of the novel. Hold onto your libido, however, during the final third. Wow! No, the scenes were not really that relevant to the storyline, and they came pretty much one after another, and, like I said, Wow!
Stone does a good job with the mystery aspect of the story, although by the end of the book where pretty much all is revealed, what I had surmised was what eventually occurred. All in all, Stone done good! And his fans will be satisfied.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 4, 2016
I received a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Wow....that about sums up my thoughts after reading this book. What an exciting read. A wonderful mixture of romance and mystery. Stone instantly gets the reader hooked.
The synopsis is very well done. Luke doesn't remember anything about his past prior to being found half dead in the desert at a young age. His whole life has been plagued by these dreams of blue men, but he can't figure out why.
His boyfriend recently breaks up with him to marry a women he's been seeing on the side. In a last ditch effort to get him back he shows up on his wedding day to talk since into him. There he runs into a childhood friend, Ben. Ben sympathizes with Luke and helps him through this difficult time.
Ben and Luke instantly fall back on their childhood friendship. For being apart for years, these two act like no time has passed. On one hand, I liked their friendship and their interaction with one another. On the other hand, it is hard to believe that they instantly resonated as friends after soo love apart.
While Luke is staying with Ben, his dreams come back with a vengeance and he can't ignore them anymore. Old memories start to surface and he is able to connect them to the dreams he's been having. With Ben by his side, Luke begins to investigate his past and the mysterious ghost town called Oasis. These two discover not only a secret cover-up but also a relationship that neither thought possible.
Overall this book exciting to read. As I stated earlier the mixture between romance and mystery was done beautifully. There were a few things in the story that bothered me a little, but it wasn't enough to overshadow my enjoyment of the book. The ending is great and I can't wait to read more.
Wow....that about sums up my thoughts after reading this book. What an exciting read. A wonderful mixture of romance and mystery. Stone instantly gets the reader hooked.
The synopsis is very well done. Luke doesn't remember anything about his past prior to being found half dead in the desert at a young age. His whole life has been plagued by these dreams of blue men, but he can't figure out why.
His boyfriend recently breaks up with him to marry a women he's been seeing on the side. In a last ditch effort to get him back he shows up on his wedding day to talk since into him. There he runs into a childhood friend, Ben. Ben sympathizes with Luke and helps him through this difficult time.
Ben and Luke instantly fall back on their childhood friendship. For being apart for years, these two act like no time has passed. On one hand, I liked their friendship and their interaction with one another. On the other hand, it is hard to believe that they instantly resonated as friends after soo love apart.
While Luke is staying with Ben, his dreams come back with a vengeance and he can't ignore them anymore. Old memories start to surface and he is able to connect them to the dreams he's been having. With Ben by his side, Luke begins to investigate his past and the mysterious ghost town called Oasis. These two discover not only a secret cover-up but also a relationship that neither thought possible.
Overall this book exciting to read. As I stated earlier the mixture between romance and mystery was done beautifully. There were a few things in the story that bothered me a little, but it wasn't enough to overshadow my enjoyment of the book. The ending is great and I can't wait to read more.
March 28, 2016
**I was given a free copy of this book in exchange for an honest review**
3.75ish stars...
This was an entertaining read. It was nicely paced. I liked the MCs... especially Ben. Luke had not led an easy life. Found in the desert when he was six years old; adopted and then later on losing both his parents to illness. The book opens with him racing to stop the wedding of his (a#@hole) recently ex boyfriend. Arriving at the church, he meets his childhood best friend, Ben (also bio-brother to the bride) and things go from there.
It is a bit of a whirlwind. Suddenly, Luke has moved in with Ben, having decided not to return to his hometown and former job with his ex's father. And then Luke's nightmares begin, and the adventure of uncovering his path begins.
There is a lot going on in this story. Cover-ups. Cheating (though not with the MCs). Friends with benefits. Rediscovering/admitting sexuality. Perhaps too much. Because at the end, it felt unfinished. And not simply because of the mysterious epilogue. I had questions and theories, and I have no idea if there is a sequel planned.
The relationship between the MCs wasn't fast, which was good. But it felt like there was just something missing. Still built up more than many other books I've read. Sex was hot.
Overall, I enjoyed this. Not too much angst. A bit of mystery. It was a fun read. Thank you.
3.75ish stars...
This was an entertaining read. It was nicely paced. I liked the MCs... especially Ben. Luke had not led an easy life. Found in the desert when he was six years old; adopted and then later on losing both his parents to illness. The book opens with him racing to stop the wedding of his (a#@hole) recently ex boyfriend. Arriving at the church, he meets his childhood best friend, Ben (also bio-brother to the bride) and things go from there.
It is a bit of a whirlwind. Suddenly, Luke has moved in with Ben, having decided not to return to his hometown and former job with his ex's father. And then Luke's nightmares begin, and the adventure of uncovering his path begins.
There is a lot going on in this story. Cover-ups. Cheating (though not with the MCs). Friends with benefits. Rediscovering/admitting sexuality. Perhaps too much. Because at the end, it felt unfinished. And not simply because of the mysterious epilogue. I had questions and theories, and I have no idea if there is a sequel planned.
The relationship between the MCs wasn't fast, which was good. But it felt like there was just something missing. Still built up more than many other books I've read. Sex was hot.
Overall, I enjoyed this. Not too much angst. A bit of mystery. It was a fun read. Thank you.
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