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Storm Warning
A contemporary gay romance novel from the author of North Point and The Anthem Trilogy.
Jamie Johnson is going to sea for the first time in his life. Atlantic Star is one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world, and a two-week trip to Iceland offers Jamie the perfect escape. His life has been on hold since the death of his husband and a working holiday onboard a state-of-the-art ship is an opportunity to explore the world he’s been hiding from. A chance to think about his future and decide what he wants to do with the rest of his life.
When Dexter Fordyce steps onboard, all he wants is a good time. The cruise is his first holiday in years, and workaholic Dexter is ready to relax and enjoy himself. If he can manage a little fun with someone like Jamie, even better. Jamie is flattered by the attention. Dexter is handsome, charming and great fun and proves impossible to resist.
Jamie’s hopes of romance died with his husband. The prospect of a shipboard passion is attractive, but Jamie’s heart has been broken for too long and he can’t take the risk of falling in love. With stormy weather ahead, the two men are set for a voyage they will never forget.
Jamie Johnson is going to sea for the first time in his life. Atlantic Star is one of the most luxurious cruise ships in the world, and a two-week trip to Iceland offers Jamie the perfect escape. His life has been on hold since the death of his husband and a working holiday onboard a state-of-the-art ship is an opportunity to explore the world he’s been hiding from. A chance to think about his future and decide what he wants to do with the rest of his life.
When Dexter Fordyce steps onboard, all he wants is a good time. The cruise is his first holiday in years, and workaholic Dexter is ready to relax and enjoy himself. If he can manage a little fun with someone like Jamie, even better. Jamie is flattered by the attention. Dexter is handsome, charming and great fun and proves impossible to resist.
Jamie’s hopes of romance died with his husband. The prospect of a shipboard passion is attractive, but Jamie’s heart has been broken for too long and he can’t take the risk of falling in love. With stormy weather ahead, the two men are set for a voyage they will never forget.
186 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 12, 2020
7 people are currently reading
121 people want to read
About the author
Thom Collins
25 books155 followersThom Collins is the author of the novel Closer by Morning, with Pride Publishing. His love of page turning thrillers began at an early age when his mother caught him reading the latest Jackie Collins book and promptly confiscated it, sparking a life-long love of raunchy novels.
His novella Silent Voices will be published by Pride in May, followed by the novel Anthem of the Sea, the first book in the Anthem Trilogy. He has recently finished writing the second book in a series and is making plans for the third.
Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age. Since taking his first cruise in 2013 he realized that sailing is the way to go.
His novella Silent Voices will be published by Pride in May, followed by the novel Anthem of the Sea, the first book in the Anthem Trilogy. He has recently finished writing the second book in a series and is making plans for the third.
Thom has lived in the North East of England his whole life. He grew up in Northumberland and now lives in County Durham with his husband and two cats. He loves all kinds of genre fiction, especially bonk-busters, thrillers, romance and horror. He is also a cookery book addict with far too many titles cluttering his shelves. When not writing he can be found in the kitchen trying out new recipes. He’s a keen traveler but with a fear of flying that gets worse with age. Since taking his first cruise in 2013 he realized that sailing is the way to go.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 48 reviews
October 15, 2020
Loss is devastating, even crippling. Storm Warning by Thom Collins depicts a widower recapturing his life after tragic loss and a serious injury. For five years Jamie Johnson has only been existing, with his intense emotional trauma and his fear of losing again. A powerful connection and a gentle shove are the catalysts propelling Jamie to recapture his world.
Jamie’s sister-in-law, Rachel, encourages Jamie to attend a working cruise with her in an attempt to bring him back. They will hold a couple photography seminars and host a few excursions to put the seminars into practice. Meanwhile, Jamie can relax, remembering how much he and his late husband enjoyed traveling and experiencing the world around them.
Dexter Fordyce is a workaholic who hasn’t taken a vacation for several years. Pushed by his mother’s encouragement and his desire to spend time with her, Dexter joins the fabulous and outlandish Davina Summer, once the lead singer of Spring, Summer, and Fall, on the same cruise as Jamie. Dexter is a player looking for the next “fun” time. That is until he connects with Jamie and realizes there is more than a casual bump and grind.
The emotion oozes off the page and you literally feel the excitement that morphs into heartbreak and pain.
As the cruise travels from Edinburgh to Scandinavia, Jamie and Dexter connect on a bone deep level with a chemistry that is off the charts. Dexter’s hook-up desire all but vanishes and long forgotten feelings stir within Jamie. However, Jamie’s emotions get the better of him, scaring him to run in a weak attempt to protect himself. The emotion oozes off the page and you literally feel the excitement that morphs into heartbreak and pain.
Jamie is expecting his working vacation to be a gentle introduction back into the world of the living. The turmoil from his awakening feelings is further compounded when he is suddenly thrust into a solo act after a family crisis for Rachel. Unsuccessfully, Jamie uses this as a crutch to avoid Dexter.
Some interesting characters sail with Jamie and Dexter in Storm Warning. Davina is a hoot for her public and a mother to her son, and there are the snobbish dinner companions and the partnered men always looking for a third. Also beautiful is the illustration of the towns and villages where the cruise docks. These both help Jamie and Dexter while at that same time cause strife for them. But for the reader, it allows us to follow them as they reach their happy-for-now moment.
Jamie’s sister-in-law, Rachel, encourages Jamie to attend a working cruise with her in an attempt to bring him back. They will hold a couple photography seminars and host a few excursions to put the seminars into practice. Meanwhile, Jamie can relax, remembering how much he and his late husband enjoyed traveling and experiencing the world around them.
Dexter Fordyce is a workaholic who hasn’t taken a vacation for several years. Pushed by his mother’s encouragement and his desire to spend time with her, Dexter joins the fabulous and outlandish Davina Summer, once the lead singer of Spring, Summer, and Fall, on the same cruise as Jamie. Dexter is a player looking for the next “fun” time. That is until he connects with Jamie and realizes there is more than a casual bump and grind.
The emotion oozes off the page and you literally feel the excitement that morphs into heartbreak and pain.
As the cruise travels from Edinburgh to Scandinavia, Jamie and Dexter connect on a bone deep level with a chemistry that is off the charts. Dexter’s hook-up desire all but vanishes and long forgotten feelings stir within Jamie. However, Jamie’s emotions get the better of him, scaring him to run in a weak attempt to protect himself. The emotion oozes off the page and you literally feel the excitement that morphs into heartbreak and pain.
Jamie is expecting his working vacation to be a gentle introduction back into the world of the living. The turmoil from his awakening feelings is further compounded when he is suddenly thrust into a solo act after a family crisis for Rachel. Unsuccessfully, Jamie uses this as a crutch to avoid Dexter.
Some interesting characters sail with Jamie and Dexter in Storm Warning. Davina is a hoot for her public and a mother to her son, and there are the snobbish dinner companions and the partnered men always looking for a third. Also beautiful is the illustration of the towns and villages where the cruise docks. These both help Jamie and Dexter while at that same time cause strife for them. But for the reader, it allows us to follow them as they reach their happy-for-now moment.
October 19, 2020
There were parts of this book that I liked and I thought the beginning was interesting. Unfortunately I didn’t connect with a lot of the book after the initial start.
Jamie is grieving for his husband after he lost him in a horrific way that also left Jamie injured. This is the first time in 5 years that Jamie has ventured on a vacation without his husband. I thought Jamie was a really interesting, sweet character and I was immediately drawn to him and his back story. He’s the kind of character you just know needs a happily ever after.
Dexter is on the ship with his mother who is performing while on board. Dexter is used to having meaningless one night stands but he wants to get away from that and he thinks this trip will be a good start.
Dexter and Jamie immediately find each other attractive but with Jamie not interested in a one night stand and Dexter appearing to be into only that at first they don’t think anything will come of the attraction. They do succumb to their passions and that causes anxiety for Jamie. I totally understood why this would happen.
What I didn’t like was the fact that Dexter has sex with others while on board before he gets with Jamie and then almost has sex after things don’t initially work out with Jamie with someone else. With Dexter trying to not fall into bed with anyone (that’s one of the reasons he was on this trip, to make a new start) to almost immediately do so was disappointing. I was hoping for more of a build up with Dexter and Jamie instead of others being involved.
There is definitely insta-love here too which didn’t work for me. These men didn’t know each other and I could believe they want to get to know each other more in the 2 weeks time on the ship but with them spending so much time apart on board I didn’t feel like there was enough foundation for me to believe they were that serious about each other. I do wish there was more time spent besides sex with them. Them getting to know each other on page, spending time together even off the ship at the ports.
I didn’t understand the epilogue at all. I guess it’s supposed to be a twist of some sort for another book but it didn’t fit the story and left me scratching my head. There was a lot of potential here but it just fell flat for me.
ARC received for honest review
Jamie is grieving for his husband after he lost him in a horrific way that also left Jamie injured. This is the first time in 5 years that Jamie has ventured on a vacation without his husband. I thought Jamie was a really interesting, sweet character and I was immediately drawn to him and his back story. He’s the kind of character you just know needs a happily ever after.
Dexter is on the ship with his mother who is performing while on board. Dexter is used to having meaningless one night stands but he wants to get away from that and he thinks this trip will be a good start.
Dexter and Jamie immediately find each other attractive but with Jamie not interested in a one night stand and Dexter appearing to be into only that at first they don’t think anything will come of the attraction. They do succumb to their passions and that causes anxiety for Jamie. I totally understood why this would happen.
What I didn’t like was the fact that Dexter has sex with others while on board before he gets with Jamie and then almost has sex after things don’t initially work out with Jamie with someone else. With Dexter trying to not fall into bed with anyone (that’s one of the reasons he was on this trip, to make a new start) to almost immediately do so was disappointing. I was hoping for more of a build up with Dexter and Jamie instead of others being involved.
There is definitely insta-love here too which didn’t work for me. These men didn’t know each other and I could believe they want to get to know each other more in the 2 weeks time on the ship but with them spending so much time apart on board I didn’t feel like there was enough foundation for me to believe they were that serious about each other. I do wish there was more time spent besides sex with them. Them getting to know each other on page, spending time together even off the ship at the ports.
I didn’t understand the epilogue at all. I guess it’s supposed to be a twist of some sort for another book but it didn’t fit the story and left me scratching my head. There was a lot of potential here but it just fell flat for me.
ARC received for honest review
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 15, 2020
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.5 stars
Storm Warning is a contemporary get-together romance starring two main characters who seem a bit older than your typical leads. Jamie is 41; Dexter is 35. Dexter is also the production of what I believed was an interracial marriage between two famous parents. Jamie is familiar with the public eye for surviving a horrific hostage situation. I was surprised their respective connections to fame didn’t serve as a bigger point of connection or commonality between them. That said, I did like Jamie and Dexter as individuals. They seemed like opposites attract in that Jamie is the one who has loved and lost and proceeds with extreme caution, and Dexter hasn’t yet learned to love.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
3.5 stars
Storm Warning is a contemporary get-together romance starring two main characters who seem a bit older than your typical leads. Jamie is 41; Dexter is 35. Dexter is also the production of what I believed was an interracial marriage between two famous parents. Jamie is familiar with the public eye for surviving a horrific hostage situation. I was surprised their respective connections to fame didn’t serve as a bigger point of connection or commonality between them. That said, I did like Jamie and Dexter as individuals. They seemed like opposites attract in that Jamie is the one who has loved and lost and proceeds with extreme caution, and Dexter hasn’t yet learned to love.
Read Camille’s review in its entirety here.
October 4, 2020
I had read a previous book written by Thom Collins and I quite enjoyed it. I found I didn’t connect with this one as well.
Jamie Johnson is embarking on a working-cruise with his sister-in-law. He’s still mourning the tragic loss of his husband. This is the first time he has tried to have a pseudo vacation since his loss and faced the possibility of getting out in the world again.
I think my frustration with this novel lies in the fact that the backstory for Jamie and his husband was super interesting and maybe that was the story I wanted to read about. In comparison to the love that Jamie had with his husband…the connection that he felt to the man he met on the cruise ship felt really disconnected. The instant that Dexter didn’t get the connection with Jamie that he wanted he was drinking and in having sex with other men. I just found that a little difficult to process given how obsessed he seemed with Jamie.
When Jamie and Dexter meet – sure – Jamie is on the cusp of venturing back out into the world of dating and relationships. But I found the way that he was instantly attracted to Dexter and then almost immediately fell in love with him to be quite unbelievable.
Davina (Dexter’s mother) was a great supporting character. At first, I thought she was going to be an entitled songstress, but she was lovely. She was probably my favourite character in the book. She was super-supportive of her son, his dating-life, and was such a straight talker.
The epilogue was intriguing and points to future installments of this novel changing direction. Now, I really enjoyed “North Point” Jagged shores #1 – and that novel was essentially a crime novel. It was one of the most dramatic novels I have read in a while… I was on the edge of my seat. I have high hopes for the continuation of this series if it goes that route!
Jamie Johnson is embarking on a working-cruise with his sister-in-law. He’s still mourning the tragic loss of his husband. This is the first time he has tried to have a pseudo vacation since his loss and faced the possibility of getting out in the world again.
I think my frustration with this novel lies in the fact that the backstory for Jamie and his husband was super interesting and maybe that was the story I wanted to read about. In comparison to the love that Jamie had with his husband…the connection that he felt to the man he met on the cruise ship felt really disconnected. The instant that Dexter didn’t get the connection with Jamie that he wanted he was drinking and in having sex with other men. I just found that a little difficult to process given how obsessed he seemed with Jamie.
When Jamie and Dexter meet – sure – Jamie is on the cusp of venturing back out into the world of dating and relationships. But I found the way that he was instantly attracted to Dexter and then almost immediately fell in love with him to be quite unbelievable.
Davina (Dexter’s mother) was a great supporting character. At first, I thought she was going to be an entitled songstress, but she was lovely. She was probably my favourite character in the book. She was super-supportive of her son, his dating-life, and was such a straight talker.
The epilogue was intriguing and points to future installments of this novel changing direction. Now, I really enjoyed “North Point” Jagged shores #1 – and that novel was essentially a crime novel. It was one of the most dramatic novels I have read in a while… I was on the edge of my seat. I have high hopes for the continuation of this series if it goes that route!
October 13, 2020
Humm, I've mixed feelings about this one. I've read this author's work before, and enjoyed it, but I struggled to connect with the MCs in this one. Jamie is obviously still grieving for his husband (read the blurb), and so the plot tends to go round and round. I found myself more invested in Jamie's relationship with his deceased ex, than I was with the other MC, Dexter. I found myself looking at this novel as the unfolding of someone who has been and still is crushed by grief!
I really wanted to like Dexter, but found him frustrating. He couldn't immediately get what he wanted, so he shags half the men on the ship! Really! Talk about stereotypes.
So, not really a book I'd read again. I appreciate the work the author put I to this, but, unfortunately, not for me.
I really wanted to like Dexter, but found him frustrating. He couldn't immediately get what he wanted, so he shags half the men on the ship! Really! Talk about stereotypes.
So, not really a book I'd read again. I appreciate the work the author put I to this, but, unfortunately, not for me.
April 26, 2022
**3.5 Stars**
I'm on the fence a bit with this one I liked it but I can't say I loved it, I was definitely entertained though. Grief, ugh, in my opinion its a tricky thing to write. I want to feel the emotion but I don't want to drown in it. I think the author did a great job handling that heartbreaking aspect of the story. What I did have a hard time feeling was any kind of strong connection between Dexter and Jamie until near the end of their story. I wish the guys had spent more time together earlier on in the book and I wasn't fond of Dexter for so quickly hooking up with another couple when he didn't think he was going to get what he wanted from Jamie. I think I get why he did it but I was a bit disappointed that it happened. Dexter's actions put me off him, which is really too bad because by the end of the story I liked him.
I really liked the authors note at the end of the book about where he originally wanted this story to go and why he scraped his plans for a series. I feel for him and it's a shame he cancelled the series. After reading the deleted epilogue I wish he had gone with it but I understand why he didn't. It's too bad because I'm more than just a little intrigued.
QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Forced proximity -- ship board fling turns to more -- dealing with grief -- trying to start over -- finding the one when you aren't looking for him -- there were some sweet moments -- IMO it took to long for the guys to finally get on the same page -- didn't get a strong feeling of a connection between the MCs until much much later -- loved Dexter's mother, Davina -- loved Jamie right away/Dexter on the other hand was another matter -- really disliked Paul and Stephen, they gave me the creeps lol -- not really an HEA more of a HFN
I'm on the fence a bit with this one I liked it but I can't say I loved it, I was definitely entertained though. Grief, ugh, in my opinion its a tricky thing to write. I want to feel the emotion but I don't want to drown in it. I think the author did a great job handling that heartbreaking aspect of the story. What I did have a hard time feeling was any kind of strong connection between Dexter and Jamie until near the end of their story. I wish the guys had spent more time together earlier on in the book and I wasn't fond of Dexter for so quickly hooking up with another couple when he didn't think he was going to get what he wanted from Jamie. I think I get why he did it but I was a bit disappointed that it happened. Dexter's actions put me off him, which is really too bad because by the end of the story I liked him.
I really liked the authors note at the end of the book about where he originally wanted this story to go and why he scraped his plans for a series. I feel for him and it's a shame he cancelled the series. After reading the deleted epilogue I wish he had gone with it but I understand why he didn't. It's too bad because I'm more than just a little intrigued.
QUICK THOUGHTS
-- Forced proximity -- ship board fling turns to more -- dealing with grief -- trying to start over -- finding the one when you aren't looking for him -- there were some sweet moments -- IMO it took to long for the guys to finally get on the same page -- didn't get a strong feeling of a connection between the MCs until much much later -- loved Dexter's mother, Davina -- loved Jamie right away/Dexter on the other hand was another matter -- really disliked Paul and Stephen, they gave me the creeps lol -- not really an HEA more of a HFN
March 25, 2022
You know how in some stories, a supporting character just runs away with the whole thing? Like, not just every scene they’re in, but kind of the entire narrative? For me, this book has one of those characters: I would happily read a sequel devoted solely to the adventures of Davinia: diva, relationship savant, and biggest personality in every room, every time. She’s also Dexter’s mother, but that’s the least interesting thing about her. As for the central romance between Dexter and Jamie, it was engaging, just like the characters themselves. I liked them both well enough, although for mature, otherwise kindhearted men they both have occasional flares of deep irrationality and petty jealousy (Dexter more than Jamie, but neither should be let off the hook for this) and I didn’t love that about them. For the most part, however, their story has plenty of feelings, some drama, and a romance that they both clearly want, so it’s easy to want the best for them both.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
March 28, 2022
3.5 Stars
I liked the premise of this story. Forced proximity via a cruise to Iceland. What better stage for romance. Jamie, 41, is finally gathering the courage to get out in the world after the most tragic death of his husband. Dexter, 35, hasn't been one for settling down, bouncing from one night stand to another.
I did struggle with not really feeling their connection. There was actually very little interaction with each other and it was often fraught with guilt, grief, miscommunication, etc. So when they finally came together (very late in the book) and declared love, I wasn't quite there. It was a sweet HFN though.
I did think the characters were a good fit, I just wished there were more scenes of them together, maybe a bit more push and pull. Having said that, this is a second edition with an epilogue removed and the author explains the original intent was for this to be a mystery series and it did help me understand the tone of the book better.
I would like to give other books by this author a try.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
I liked the premise of this story. Forced proximity via a cruise to Iceland. What better stage for romance. Jamie, 41, is finally gathering the courage to get out in the world after the most tragic death of his husband. Dexter, 35, hasn't been one for settling down, bouncing from one night stand to another.
I did struggle with not really feeling their connection. There was actually very little interaction with each other and it was often fraught with guilt, grief, miscommunication, etc. So when they finally came together (very late in the book) and declared love, I wasn't quite there. It was a sweet HFN though.
I did think the characters were a good fit, I just wished there were more scenes of them together, maybe a bit more push and pull. Having said that, this is a second edition with an epilogue removed and the author explains the original intent was for this to be a mystery series and it did help me understand the tone of the book better.
I would like to give other books by this author a try.
< ARC provided by GRR and this is my honest review >
March 29, 2022
Dnf at 24%. I just can't. I don't have time to spend on books that are so casually racist and fatphobic. Within the first 10%, the POC character is described as having "creamy caramel skin" and also as "exotic looking" I wish I could make this shit up.
Then there's the fact that the single fat character introduced in this 24% is rude and shallow and also ugly because of course she's had plastic surgery.
Then there's a line about how tattoos are an obvious turn off. Oh and then there's also the "real men" and that should just never be used ever.
I was given an advanced copy of this book for review but I am not going to waste my time with problematic books when there are way more wonderful queer romance books out there for me to find. This one can go on the avoid at all costs shelf.
Then there's the fact that the single fat character introduced in this 24% is rude and shallow and also ugly because of course she's had plastic surgery.
Then there's a line about how tattoos are an obvious turn off. Oh and then there's also the "real men" and that should just never be used ever.
I was given an advanced copy of this book for review but I am not going to waste my time with problematic books when there are way more wonderful queer romance books out there for me to find. This one can go on the avoid at all costs shelf.
October 10, 2020
I received a free copy to read and review for Wicked Reads
I had a love hate relationship with this book. I loved the blurb and couldn't wait to dive in. I mean who wouldn't want to read this? I really think we need a book before this about Jamie and his husband. I need to know more about them. Dexter seemed like the typical stereo type of gay man who if he doesn't get what he wants when he wants it he just goes and either drinks himself into obliviation or bangs anything that has a heartbeat. These two made me want to scream at times. I did enjoy it, tbey just frustrated me LOL. Not sure how I feel about the epilogue though.
I had a love hate relationship with this book. I loved the blurb and couldn't wait to dive in. I mean who wouldn't want to read this? I really think we need a book before this about Jamie and his husband. I need to know more about them. Dexter seemed like the typical stereo type of gay man who if he doesn't get what he wants when he wants it he just goes and either drinks himself into obliviation or bangs anything that has a heartbeat. These two made me want to scream at times. I did enjoy it, tbey just frustrated me LOL. Not sure how I feel about the epilogue though.
April 2, 2022
RTC but I read books by this autho before and I really enjoyed them so I was excited to read this book but sadly I just couldn’t fget into the romance part of this book, and I was reading the book for the romance so the book didn’t work for me because of that.
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
I received an arc of this book and this is my honest opinion
October 12, 2020
Jamie is a widower after a series of tragic events. He has been just existing for 5 yrs and not really living. His sister in law talks him into a cruise with her to teach a few photography classes. He meets Dexter on this cruise and their chemistry is sizzling. They seem to be getting along great until Jamie gets scared and avoids Dexter. This book made the reader feel every emotion. I loved it.
October 14, 2020
I enjoyed this.
I really liked this book – a lot. However, I feel obligated to warn readers that they should skip the epilogue if they don't like cliffhangers. There's no indication in the blurb, or on Amazon, that this is the beginning of a series but I feel like it must be, simply because of the epilogue.
There is a very satisfying HFN for Jamie and Dexter by the end of the last chapter and the epilogue really has nothing to do with them. In some ways I wish I hadn't read it (usually I love epilogues) but I'm actually not sorry that I did. While I'm intrigued enough to want to read what I hope will be the next book, I don't think I'll feel devastated if it never comes to be.
This cruise is the first time that Jamie has gone anywhere on a holiday since his husband died five years ago and this trip is actually part business. Dexter is on the ship with his mother – she's one of the entertainers and convinced him to take a break and come with her.
Dexter knew there was something special about Jamie when he met him and he couldn't help flirting; then he saw the wedding ring on Jamie's finger. Dexter is the first man that Jamie has really been attracted to – in that way, since his husband died but he gets cold feet after the first time he and Dexter are intimate with each other.
This is a story that really held my attention. I found the secondary character of Dexter's mother to be entertaining and she also helped Jamie's confusion about his feelings for Dexter. I fell in love with cruising about 6 years ago and really enjoyed the setting for this story. The descriptions of the ship were pretty accurate as far as the cruises I've been on. The story brought back fond memories of past cruises (I was on one with seas nearly as rough as what was described in the book) and it also made me sad that cruising has been suspended due to the current pandemic.
The only slightly disappointing thing was the epilogue and the cliffhanger. I would not have minded near as much if there had been some warning. I know some authors feel strongly about not warning of cliffhangers but I feel it's better when they do. Like I said you can read the book and skip the epilogue with the cliffhanger and just enjoy the very satisfying HFN for Jamie and Dexter.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
I really liked this book – a lot. However, I feel obligated to warn readers that they should skip the epilogue if they don't like cliffhangers. There's no indication in the blurb, or on Amazon, that this is the beginning of a series but I feel like it must be, simply because of the epilogue.
There is a very satisfying HFN for Jamie and Dexter by the end of the last chapter and the epilogue really has nothing to do with them. In some ways I wish I hadn't read it (usually I love epilogues) but I'm actually not sorry that I did. While I'm intrigued enough to want to read what I hope will be the next book, I don't think I'll feel devastated if it never comes to be.
This cruise is the first time that Jamie has gone anywhere on a holiday since his husband died five years ago and this trip is actually part business. Dexter is on the ship with his mother – she's one of the entertainers and convinced him to take a break and come with her.
Dexter knew there was something special about Jamie when he met him and he couldn't help flirting; then he saw the wedding ring on Jamie's finger. Dexter is the first man that Jamie has really been attracted to – in that way, since his husband died but he gets cold feet after the first time he and Dexter are intimate with each other.
This is a story that really held my attention. I found the secondary character of Dexter's mother to be entertaining and she also helped Jamie's confusion about his feelings for Dexter. I fell in love with cruising about 6 years ago and really enjoyed the setting for this story. The descriptions of the ship were pretty accurate as far as the cruises I've been on. The story brought back fond memories of past cruises (I was on one with seas nearly as rough as what was described in the book) and it also made me sad that cruising has been suspended due to the current pandemic.
The only slightly disappointing thing was the epilogue and the cliffhanger. I would not have minded near as much if there had been some warning. I know some authors feel strongly about not warning of cliffhangers but I feel it's better when they do. Like I said you can read the book and skip the epilogue with the cliffhanger and just enjoy the very satisfying HFN for Jamie and Dexter.
A copy of this book was provided to me but my review was voluntary and not influenced by the author.
***Reviewed for Xtreme-Delusions dot com***
October 19, 2020
Dexter and Jamie's story is compelling. Jamie is not only recovering from the death of his husband 5 years ago, but the circumstances surrounding the death have caused him PTSD that has taken him most of 5 years to learn how to manage. Dexter, on the other hand, is a light-hearted, fun-loving guy. Raised by his famous 70's mega-star singer mother, he has never had a meaningful relationship. But what he feels for Jamie is different than he's ever felt before. Jamie feels the connection as well, but he has to fight through his feelings and his fear of falling in love and then experiencing the most horrifying loss. He knows that if he were to lose someone else he loved the way he loved Tyler, he wouldn't survive it.
The cruise is meant to be a way for Jamie to ease back into life again. His late husband's sister, who adores him, had to work hard to get him to come with her on the trip. It's supposed to be almost a working holiday for him, but it becomes so much more when he meets Dexter and experiences the kind of attraction he never expected to ever feel again.
Dexter is so kind and compassionate with Jamie; even when Jamie tries desperately to push him away, Dexter understands. While it breaks his heart, he tries to accept that Jamie is simply not ready to fall in love again - and he may never be.
I loved the tenderness between Jamie and Dexter. Poor Jamie is sort of thrashing around in his feelings, terrified to actually feel something for another man. But Dexter is rock solid in his feelings. Even though he's never had a serious relationship, he knows from the start that his connection with Jamie is special.
The only thing I really didn't care for in Storm Warning was the epilogue. It was like a completely different story started in the epilogue, and that story is a mystery, not a romance. I like epilogues to give me an peek into the lives of the characters down the road, but this one was really used as the start of a new story incorporating a few minor characters from Storm Warning. It left me a little confused. Aside from that, Storm Warning is an enjoyable read with likeable characters who I was rooting for the entire story.
The cruise is meant to be a way for Jamie to ease back into life again. His late husband's sister, who adores him, had to work hard to get him to come with her on the trip. It's supposed to be almost a working holiday for him, but it becomes so much more when he meets Dexter and experiences the kind of attraction he never expected to ever feel again.
Dexter is so kind and compassionate with Jamie; even when Jamie tries desperately to push him away, Dexter understands. While it breaks his heart, he tries to accept that Jamie is simply not ready to fall in love again - and he may never be.
I loved the tenderness between Jamie and Dexter. Poor Jamie is sort of thrashing around in his feelings, terrified to actually feel something for another man. But Dexter is rock solid in his feelings. Even though he's never had a serious relationship, he knows from the start that his connection with Jamie is special.
The only thing I really didn't care for in Storm Warning was the epilogue. It was like a completely different story started in the epilogue, and that story is a mystery, not a romance. I like epilogues to give me an peek into the lives of the characters down the road, but this one was really used as the start of a new story incorporating a few minor characters from Storm Warning. It left me a little confused. Aside from that, Storm Warning is an enjoyable read with likeable characters who I was rooting for the entire story.
October 12, 2020
I hadn’t read any of this author’s previous works when I picked this one up, so didn’t really have any set expectations for this book or the writing style. From the blurb, I thought Storm Warning had the potential for a great hurt/comfort story with maybe a touch of excitement from the storm of the title. In the end, it didn’t wind up being quite my cuppa.
I did like the characters well enough—Jamie more so than Dexter, but given Jamie’s backstory I think anyone would be hard pressed to not like him, and I find myself fervently hoping he would find blissful happiness again. Dexter is a bit of a playboy, which could have played well against Jamie’s emotional story but fell a bit short of that for me. While once they advanced to the physical aspect of their holiday their chemistry showed and ran hot, I didn’t feel that emotional connection I was hoping for. Maybe it was the short time frame of the book’s events, maybe it was Dexter’s personality (I found him to be the type to jump to conclusions and more of a “live in the moment” guy which didn’t quick click for me with Jamie’s serious demeanor).
As for the supporting characters, I thought Dexter’s mother Davina was the best. While loud and brash, saying whatever is on her mind, she also provides great insight to both Dexter and Jamie to help move things along with them. And as for the storm that I thought might bring excitement, it was more of a way to facilitate the advancement of Jamie and Dexter’s relationship.
There was one odd portion of the story that was brought up at the end involving some of the other supporting characters. It kind of felt out of the blue, even if it did explain something about those characters that happened earlier in the book. It seems like it might have been a way to point towards another connected future story, but left things feeling slightly unfinished here.
Overall, Storm Warning didn’t quite hit my buttons, but was a nice way to pass the time so was a 3-star read for me. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
I did like the characters well enough—Jamie more so than Dexter, but given Jamie’s backstory I think anyone would be hard pressed to not like him, and I find myself fervently hoping he would find blissful happiness again. Dexter is a bit of a playboy, which could have played well against Jamie’s emotional story but fell a bit short of that for me. While once they advanced to the physical aspect of their holiday their chemistry showed and ran hot, I didn’t feel that emotional connection I was hoping for. Maybe it was the short time frame of the book’s events, maybe it was Dexter’s personality (I found him to be the type to jump to conclusions and more of a “live in the moment” guy which didn’t quick click for me with Jamie’s serious demeanor).
As for the supporting characters, I thought Dexter’s mother Davina was the best. While loud and brash, saying whatever is on her mind, she also provides great insight to both Dexter and Jamie to help move things along with them. And as for the storm that I thought might bring excitement, it was more of a way to facilitate the advancement of Jamie and Dexter’s relationship.
There was one odd portion of the story that was brought up at the end involving some of the other supporting characters. It kind of felt out of the blue, even if it did explain something about those characters that happened earlier in the book. It seems like it might have been a way to point towards another connected future story, but left things feeling slightly unfinished here.
Overall, Storm Warning didn’t quite hit my buttons, but was a nice way to pass the time so was a 3-star read for me. This book is meant for readers 18+ for adult language and sexual content.
October 14, 2020
Storm Warning
MMy Thoughts and Review:
What could be more exciting than a cruise to Iceland? One that promises a torrid affair of course. That’s all widower Jamie could possibly hope to get out of the two-week excursion his sister-in-law has finally managed to talk him into taking with her as a photo lecturer.
Jamie never dreamed the beautiful Dexter would swoop in and steal his barely beating heart from his chest and massage it back to life again. The jolt has scared Jaime and caused his emotions to jumble and confound him. Dexter is left floundering like a drowning man with his own emotions and heart in danger. Neither man may survive the love that has erupted from the chemistry and passion between them.
While the tangle of emotions is being figured out by Jamie and Dexter, Jamie loses his sister-in-law to a family emergency, a couple of passengers go missing from a port stop, a diva rocks the boat just as hard as the storm on the voyage back, and a poly couple can’t seem to stay away from Dex and Jamie.
A truly fantastic voyage full of drama, mystery, great characters, stellar world-building, and romance that wraps around you like a tiny thread that you barely feel until you look around and realize you are completely bound and unable to move until you know how the story ends for these two men. One tormented by ghosts from the past and the other by fears of commitment.
This was my first ride with Collins. However, I am already looking forward to my next adventure with him at the helm. If the epilogue was anything to go by it is going to be a true delight. For anyone who enjoys the perfect blend of naughty and nice, tormented, and tantalizing, then this book is for you.
Sharonica Logic: 4.00 if-the-ship’s-a-rockin’-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gay Book Promotions to read and review. 📚🌈📚
MMy Thoughts and Review:
What could be more exciting than a cruise to Iceland? One that promises a torrid affair of course. That’s all widower Jamie could possibly hope to get out of the two-week excursion his sister-in-law has finally managed to talk him into taking with her as a photo lecturer.
Jamie never dreamed the beautiful Dexter would swoop in and steal his barely beating heart from his chest and massage it back to life again. The jolt has scared Jaime and caused his emotions to jumble and confound him. Dexter is left floundering like a drowning man with his own emotions and heart in danger. Neither man may survive the love that has erupted from the chemistry and passion between them.
While the tangle of emotions is being figured out by Jamie and Dexter, Jamie loses his sister-in-law to a family emergency, a couple of passengers go missing from a port stop, a diva rocks the boat just as hard as the storm on the voyage back, and a poly couple can’t seem to stay away from Dex and Jamie.
A truly fantastic voyage full of drama, mystery, great characters, stellar world-building, and romance that wraps around you like a tiny thread that you barely feel until you look around and realize you are completely bound and unable to move until you know how the story ends for these two men. One tormented by ghosts from the past and the other by fears of commitment.
This was my first ride with Collins. However, I am already looking forward to my next adventure with him at the helm. If the epilogue was anything to go by it is going to be a true delight. For anyone who enjoys the perfect blend of naughty and nice, tormented, and tantalizing, then this book is for you.
Sharonica Logic: 4.00 if-the-ship’s-a-rockin’-stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Gay Book Promotions to read and review. 📚🌈📚
October 13, 2020
Storm Warning is an entertaining whirlwind romance by Thom Collins. My first time reading this author, I am delightfully interested in checking out his other works.
Jamie and Dexter meet on a cruise. Jamie is a man loaded down with grief, as well as being stuck with physical and mental scars after losing his husband. Honestly, this should be a whole book on it's own. The tragedy of Jamie's experience is heart-breaking. But, as this is his second chance at love, he meets Dexter and the two work to overcome their issues together.
Dexter's a confusing man. Used to hook ups, he's suddenly finding them empty and soul sucking afterwards. His connection with Jamie is actually on a mental level which is a nice change. As for his other hookup, it really pissed me off, yet definitely helped establish his character.
Written in alternating third person pov, both men are well developed, charming characters with an intriguing storyline. The author adds in many interesting, as well as haughty characters. Dexter's mom is a hoot, and is definitely an entertaining character in her own right. The cruise is well written, with even the weather playing a factor. I am certainly jealous and wish I could have been on this cruise.
Storm Warning is ultimately a story of overcoming grief and pain. This Thom Collins read is a tale of taking chances and trying to live again. And with a suspenseful ending, I definitely am looking forward to finding out what happens next.
Jamie and Dexter meet on a cruise. Jamie is a man loaded down with grief, as well as being stuck with physical and mental scars after losing his husband. Honestly, this should be a whole book on it's own. The tragedy of Jamie's experience is heart-breaking. But, as this is his second chance at love, he meets Dexter and the two work to overcome their issues together.
Dexter's a confusing man. Used to hook ups, he's suddenly finding them empty and soul sucking afterwards. His connection with Jamie is actually on a mental level which is a nice change. As for his other hookup, it really pissed me off, yet definitely helped establish his character.
Written in alternating third person pov, both men are well developed, charming characters with an intriguing storyline. The author adds in many interesting, as well as haughty characters. Dexter's mom is a hoot, and is definitely an entertaining character in her own right. The cruise is well written, with even the weather playing a factor. I am certainly jealous and wish I could have been on this cruise.
Storm Warning is ultimately a story of overcoming grief and pain. This Thom Collins read is a tale of taking chances and trying to live again. And with a suspenseful ending, I definitely am looking forward to finding out what happens next.
April 2, 2022
Five years after tragedy struck and he lost his husband, Jamie Johnson, along with his sister-in-law, decide to take his first cruise where he will talk about photography and actually lead some photographic tours. This trip will give Jamie a chance to think about his future and what he is ready to do with that future. For Dexter Fordyce, he wants to have a good time on his first vacation in years. He would love to have that fun with Jamie. Jamie is not sure he is ready but Dexter knows Jamie is special and resolves to go slow, going on dates with him.
This is an amazing slow build romance. Jamie lost his husband under very tragic circumstances that also resulted in severe injuries to Jamie. This is his first time venturing out from his existence into the land of living. The chemistry between him and Dexter is explosive but Jamie is still not sure. He and Dexter spend time together in getting to know one another. It was beautifully done and your heart will go out to Jamie and what he has endured. Dexter may be just what he needs to start living again. There are several side characters that enriched the story, especially Dexter’s mother. I loved these two together and I cannot help but wish a for a happy ending for them. As a side commentary, I would have enjoyed this is the original premise was kept as described in the back notes.
This is an amazing slow build romance. Jamie lost his husband under very tragic circumstances that also resulted in severe injuries to Jamie. This is his first time venturing out from his existence into the land of living. The chemistry between him and Dexter is explosive but Jamie is still not sure. He and Dexter spend time together in getting to know one another. It was beautifully done and your heart will go out to Jamie and what he has endured. Dexter may be just what he needs to start living again. There are several side characters that enriched the story, especially Dexter’s mother. I loved these two together and I cannot help but wish a for a happy ending for them. As a side commentary, I would have enjoyed this is the original premise was kept as described in the back notes.
October 12, 2020
Check out our full post for STORM WARNING on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Angie – ☆☆☆☆
I had a love-hate relationship with this book. I loved the blurb and couldn't wait to dive in. I mean, who wouldn't want to read this? I really think we need a book before this about Jamie and his husband. I need to know more about them. Dexter seemed like the typical stereotype of a gay man who, if he doesn't get what he wants when he wants it, he just goes and either drinks himself into oblivion or bangs anything that has a heartbeat. These two made me want to scream at times. I did enjoy it, they just frustrated me, LOL. Not sure how I feel about the epilogue though.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
October 13, 2020
The blurb of this book caught my attention right away and I'm definitely glad I picked up this book. I liked Dexter and Jamie and their cruise ship romance.
Jamie's husband died five years ago and he's never gotten over his death. When his sister-in-law talks him into taking a cruise, it's a working vacation and just what Jamie needs. It's time for him to start living again. He meets the stunning Dexter aboard and he catches Jamie's attention in a way no one else has in quite some time. Dexter is traveling with his mother, a star performing a few shows during the cruise. The two men are definitely attracted to each other and seem to have an easy friendship, but what happens when it feels like it could become more?
There's a good amount of push and pull in this book and while it can be a little frustrating, I did understand it. Jamie has a lot he is trying to process and the things he feels for Dexter are unexpected and scare him. Dexter struggles with Jamie's rejection, feeling so much for the man and thinking he isn't wanted in return. Neither of these men are perfect, but that's what makes them such real characters. I did enjoy their journey and hope that their story continues, especially with the way this book ended, odd yes, but I'm intrigued!
Jamie's husband died five years ago and he's never gotten over his death. When his sister-in-law talks him into taking a cruise, it's a working vacation and just what Jamie needs. It's time for him to start living again. He meets the stunning Dexter aboard and he catches Jamie's attention in a way no one else has in quite some time. Dexter is traveling with his mother, a star performing a few shows during the cruise. The two men are definitely attracted to each other and seem to have an easy friendship, but what happens when it feels like it could become more?
There's a good amount of push and pull in this book and while it can be a little frustrating, I did understand it. Jamie has a lot he is trying to process and the things he feels for Dexter are unexpected and scare him. Dexter struggles with Jamie's rejection, feeling so much for the man and thinking he isn't wanted in return. Neither of these men are perfect, but that's what makes them such real characters. I did enjoy their journey and hope that their story continues, especially with the way this book ended, odd yes, but I'm intrigued!
November 24, 2020
Indepedent reviewer for Archaeolibrarian, I was gifted my copy of this book.
For the most part, I enjoyed this book, it was a nice (and yes, I mean that here!) and easy read.
Both Dexter and Jamie have a say, in the third person, and both voices are clear and distinctive. I just kinda felt a bit . . . disconnected i think . . from them both. They both have had difficult childhoods, losing one/both parents at young ages (although Jamie's parents loss was very different to Dexter's) but none of it really comes across. I only really felt Jamie's guilt at sleeping with Dexter when he was in the shower scrubbing himself raw.
I did NOT like what Dexter does, both before and after he sleeps with Jamie. I understand the why, I just didn't like it.
Very much an insta-love, but for me, it's too soon, and doesn't quite work.
What threw me the most, though, wasn't anything about Jamie and Dexter, it was the epilogue! I mean, what was the point in that? If that had been worked into the story, maybe it would have worked better, but just chucking it on the end was a bit mad, I thought.
I think this will be one of those books that every else loves, but one I can't see the reason why. Sorry!
3 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
For the most part, I enjoyed this book, it was a nice (and yes, I mean that here!) and easy read.
Both Dexter and Jamie have a say, in the third person, and both voices are clear and distinctive. I just kinda felt a bit . . . disconnected i think . . from them both. They both have had difficult childhoods, losing one/both parents at young ages (although Jamie's parents loss was very different to Dexter's) but none of it really comes across. I only really felt Jamie's guilt at sleeping with Dexter when he was in the shower scrubbing himself raw.
I did NOT like what Dexter does, both before and after he sleeps with Jamie. I understand the why, I just didn't like it.
Very much an insta-love, but for me, it's too soon, and doesn't quite work.
What threw me the most, though, wasn't anything about Jamie and Dexter, it was the epilogue! I mean, what was the point in that? If that had been worked into the story, maybe it would have worked better, but just chucking it on the end was a bit mad, I thought.
I think this will be one of those books that every else loves, but one I can't see the reason why. Sorry!
3 stars
**same worded review will appear elsewhere**
March 30, 2022
Something was just off
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance Review and this is me leaving my honest review.
Firstly let me say that I have read a number of Thom Collins books and have thoroughly enjoyed them but for me this one just didn’t sit right.
I didn’t feel the connection between the main characters. You’ve got Jamie who had lost his husband through the most worst, awful circumstances and now five years later is finally feeling the attraction to another man. It’s deep So you kind of get how strong his feelings go for Jamie but then you have Dexter. On one hand he is like an immature teenager ( he isn’t he’s in his 30s) who has one thing on his mind and there’s no emotional connection to spending time with another man. I just didn’t think they would connect at all and I totally get opposites attract but not this time.
I found myself wanting to know more about Jamie’s husband than I did about Dexter. There was just something about Dexter that rubbed me up the wrong way. I’m really sorry to leave a bad review but I’ve always said that I will be honest. I think with a few tweaks this could be a good book because I enjoy the storyline I just didn’t take to Dexter I think Jamie deserves a much better man.
Firstly let me say I’ve got this book from gay romance Review and this is me leaving my honest review.
Firstly let me say that I have read a number of Thom Collins books and have thoroughly enjoyed them but for me this one just didn’t sit right.
I didn’t feel the connection between the main characters. You’ve got Jamie who had lost his husband through the most worst, awful circumstances and now five years later is finally feeling the attraction to another man. It’s deep So you kind of get how strong his feelings go for Jamie but then you have Dexter. On one hand he is like an immature teenager ( he isn’t he’s in his 30s) who has one thing on his mind and there’s no emotional connection to spending time with another man. I just didn’t think they would connect at all and I totally get opposites attract but not this time.
I found myself wanting to know more about Jamie’s husband than I did about Dexter. There was just something about Dexter that rubbed me up the wrong way. I’m really sorry to leave a bad review but I’ve always said that I will be honest. I think with a few tweaks this could be a good book because I enjoy the storyline I just didn’t take to Dexter I think Jamie deserves a much better man.
September 17, 2020
Storm Warning is set on on a cruise ship - with a couple of land excursions thrown into the mix. It is a very well written story which stars Jamie, who had lost his husband five years earlier under very tragic circumstances, and Dexter, a workaholic who is taking his first holiday in a number of years. Dexter is travelling with his delightful mother and he is a player. They meet, there is mutual attraction, and they are hesitant.
All of this happens as the ship sails from Edinburgh to Scandinavia.
I really enjoyed Storm Warning. I read the book quite quickly as it is not long - under 200 pages - and the the story kept me reading.
At the end I was happy as these two men were in a good place. Definitely, HFN and promising a HEA.
Then I read the epilogue and the story is going to continue - quickly I hope - in a direction that I was not expecting.
Don't worry if you are concerned for our heroes as I think that it will become a case of these two working together.
I was given an ARC in return for an honest review and I definitely recommend it. I will also be reading the next book as soon as it is released.
All of this happens as the ship sails from Edinburgh to Scandinavia.
I really enjoyed Storm Warning. I read the book quite quickly as it is not long - under 200 pages - and the the story kept me reading.
At the end I was happy as these two men were in a good place. Definitely, HFN and promising a HEA.
Then I read the epilogue and the story is going to continue - quickly I hope - in a direction that I was not expecting.
Don't worry if you are concerned for our heroes as I think that it will become a case of these two working together.
I was given an ARC in return for an honest review and I definitely recommend it. I will also be reading the next book as soon as it is released.
October 16, 2020
Jamie is a professional photographer, a widower, who went through a harrowing experience 5 years earlier when his husband was killed, and he has been very withdrawn since then. His sister-in-law has convinced him to go on a cruise to Iceland with her, as a speaker on photography. Dexter is a talent agent whose mother is a singer aboard the cruise. Jamie has not been attracted to anyone since his husband died, but upon meeting Dexter, the two of them felt an instant attraction. There's some soul-searching and some misunderstandings, and of course, there is a storm at sea, but the story ends well, and you can end the story right after the last chapter, before the Epilogue. The Epilogue is the beginning of a new story, to get you interested in continuing the series. It will deal with a crime and a mystery to be solved, but it is not a cliffhanger. You don't have to continue, but if you are interested in the story and the characters, and you like a mystery combined with romance, you will probably want to read the next book.
April 11, 2022
An intense read of dealing with grief and finding oneself. Though the story was a crucial slow burn, the concept and plot was sufficient enough to keep my attention. Character development was okay, with some rather interesting side characters as well.
“𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕞𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕘𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕠𝕠 𝕔𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕖, 𝕀 𝕗𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜𝕖𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕥.”
Even upon completion of the story, I am still unsure of Dexter. He’s arrogant and self-absorbed, while Jamie is just trying to deal with the loss of his husband. Though their chemistry was almost instant, with an intense connection, I just don’t feel like they were a great match.
The grief aspect was what drove me to leave a four star review, and if you have ever dealt with loss, I would recommend this story as an escape from the real world. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult, beginning to live again afterwards is a constant struggle. The author depicted these emotions with care, leaving me feeling emotionally satisfied. And, that ending?!? Always love a good, suspenseful thriller moment thrown my way unexpectedly!
“𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕪𝕠𝕦, 𝕀 𝕨𝕒𝕟𝕥𝕖𝕕 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕥𝕠 𝕜𝕟𝕠𝕨 𝕞𝕖, 𝕒𝕟𝕕 𝕨𝕙𝕖𝕟 𝕪𝕠𝕦 𝕘𝕠𝕥 𝕥𝕠𝕠 𝕔𝕝𝕠𝕤𝕖, 𝕀 𝕗𝕣𝕖𝕒𝕜𝕖𝕕 𝕠𝕦𝕥.”
Even upon completion of the story, I am still unsure of Dexter. He’s arrogant and self-absorbed, while Jamie is just trying to deal with the loss of his husband. Though their chemistry was almost instant, with an intense connection, I just don’t feel like they were a great match.
The grief aspect was what drove me to leave a four star review, and if you have ever dealt with loss, I would recommend this story as an escape from the real world. Dealing with the loss of a loved one is difficult, beginning to live again afterwards is a constant struggle. The author depicted these emotions with care, leaving me feeling emotionally satisfied. And, that ending?!? Always love a good, suspenseful thriller moment thrown my way unexpectedly!
April 3, 2022
Mothers, always know best. Jamie, a widower is going on a two week working luxury cruise as a means to finally move to the next phase of his life, after 5 years mourning Tyler's death, with his sister in law, Rachel. He still suffers from anxiety as a residual of his husband's death. Dexter, is a workaholic taking a vacation for the first time in many years, ready to just relax. Until he sees, Jamie. He wants to break his cycle of endless mindless sexual hookups. He is traveling with his Mom and they both are looking forward to some family time, although Mom hopes some good things happen for Dex. Both of these men are absolutely adorable, but carry some heavy baggage from their past lives. Their path is not smooth and runs into a few bumps and twists. Can they resolve their issues before the end of the cruise? What's the distance between Manchester and London? Good story. Well done! I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 2, 2022
Jamie and Dexter ❤️
3.5 Stars 🌟
I enjoyed this one, at times it was emotional and a bit heavy due to Jamie's loss....the author did a great job with getting the reader to feel just how much pain that loss has caused Jamie and how hard it was to feel again. Both men were talked into this cruise, one a workaholic and one grief stricken.... from the moment they met it was as if it meant to be ❤️ they had some ups and downs but their relationship was one that I really enjoyed reading, this was a sweet and endearing book that left us with a hfn and a cliffhanger...I was a bit surprised with that but it didn't ruin the story for me and I will go on to read the next book....if you don't mind some heavy mixed with sweet and a cliffhanger, I'd recommend this read.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
3.5 Stars 🌟
I enjoyed this one, at times it was emotional and a bit heavy due to Jamie's loss....the author did a great job with getting the reader to feel just how much pain that loss has caused Jamie and how hard it was to feel again. Both men were talked into this cruise, one a workaholic and one grief stricken.... from the moment they met it was as if it meant to be ❤️ they had some ups and downs but their relationship was one that I really enjoyed reading, this was a sweet and endearing book that left us with a hfn and a cliffhanger...I was a bit surprised with that but it didn't ruin the story for me and I will go on to read the next book....if you don't mind some heavy mixed with sweet and a cliffhanger, I'd recommend this read.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
March 30, 2022
First off I have to say that I'm SO glad you put the Epilogue in even though some readers were very negative on it. I thought it was good & it made me want to read bk 2 :-( but unfortunately there isn't another book to follow this. This was my 1st book by this author and it won't be my last.
Jamie & Dexter were a great pair. Jamie has been suffering for 5 years after the tragic death of his husband. The cruise is meant to be a way for Jamie to ease back into life again. After his sister in law is called away due to a family emergency he finds himself alone on the ship. His great friendship with Dexter blossoms and it makes the rest of the trip easier for him. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
Jamie & Dexter were a great pair. Jamie has been suffering for 5 years after the tragic death of his husband. The cruise is meant to be a way for Jamie to ease back into life again. After his sister in law is called away due to a family emergency he finds himself alone on the ship. His great friendship with Dexter blossoms and it makes the rest of the trip easier for him. I received an ARC of this book for my honest review.
October 12, 2020
Jamie’s husband passed five years ago. He has only been existing. He is talked into taking a cruise, there he meets Dexter. Dexter has been a workaholic and the cruise is his first holiday in a long time. He just wants to have a good time. I could not connect with Dexter; he felt a shallow playboy. While Jamie and Dexter had great chemistry, I almost wish we had the story of Jamie and his husband. The story ended with a HFN, the epilogue implied they’ll get a HEA. I am curious to see what the author has planned. I am voluntarily leaving a review form an advanced copy that I received. My reviews are solely based on my thoughts and opinions.
October 12, 2020
This story was ok, but it did not convince me. It does end with a cliffhanger and it should be written in the blurb, but this is not the main issue.
Jamie and Dexter are at completely different stages in their emotional lives. Jamie is still grieving his late husband, Dexter is enjoying care free hookups. They meet and connect on the cruise ship, but Dexter does not stop enjoying other men’s company and Jamie doesn’t seem particularly bothered by it. That put out the romance for me. Jamie and Dexter worked as friends, but I did not see nor feel the romance, the heat of the honeymoon period. I hope the next book will continue Jamie and Dexter story giving it more depth.
Jamie and Dexter are at completely different stages in their emotional lives. Jamie is still grieving his late husband, Dexter is enjoying care free hookups. They meet and connect on the cruise ship, but Dexter does not stop enjoying other men’s company and Jamie doesn’t seem particularly bothered by it. That put out the romance for me. Jamie and Dexter worked as friends, but I did not see nor feel the romance, the heat of the honeymoon period. I hope the next book will continue Jamie and Dexter story giving it more depth.
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