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Hometown Jasper #4
Concealed Hearts
Two closeted men in one rumor-hungry small town have no chance of keeping their love a secret. Chief of Police Windsor Elkhart is a master deceiver. Not a single person in Jasper has a clue he’s gay, which explains the endless suitors all vying for his attention. Happily married to his job, he’s convinced life is good enough. Twenty years of abstinence is the price he chose to pay, all because of a secret he’s too ashamed to reveal. Until Tomi Lee returns to town after a two-decade-long absence. Shame and self-loathing have kept Tomi away from his home town, but can a simple message from a lonely police officer bring him back for good? The people of Jasper prey on gossip. Everyone is watching everyone. No one is exempt. Falling in love is easy, but do two closeted men have any chance of building a sustainable relationship when they’re always trying to hide? Concealed Hearts is a low/med angst MM romance novel with two severely closeted main characters. It is part of the Hometown Jasper Series but can be read as a standalone
239 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 22, 2020
112 people are currently reading
255 people want to read
About the author
Nicky James
80 books2,334 followersI live in the small town of Petrolia, Ontario, Canada and I am a mother to a wonderful teenage boy (didn't think those words could be typed together...surprise) and wife to a truly supportive and understanding husband, who thankfully doesn't think I'm crazy.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
I have always had two profound dreams in life. To fall back hundreds of years in time and live in a simpler world, not bogged down by technology and to write novels. Since only one of these was a possibility I decided to make the other come alive on paper.
I write mm romance novels that take place in fantastical medieval type settings and love to use the challenges of the times to give my stories and characters life.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
October 31, 2020
I liked this story more than I thought I would. I am not a fan of closeted characters, particularly when there's no substantial reason as to why they're closeted.
Tomi's family already knows he's gay (even though Tomi insists on denying it), and supports and loves him. Windsor's father refused to accept him when he came out, but that was some twenty plus years ago and, sadly, not unusual. The entire town of Jasper is very same-sex love accepting, so the men's reasons felt more psychological than anything. They'd been closeted for so long, they didn't know how to not live a lie.
Concealed Hearts is surprisingly low on the angst. Tomi comes back to Jasper to hang out with Windsor. The two men have an amazing sexual connection (the steam is on the low end, tho) and begin to yearn for a life together.
What prompts their big revelation is a near tragedy surrounding a teenage boy who's been standing up for a friend being bullied. This was a tad dramatic but also heartfelt.
I'm glad Tomi finally apologized to Josiah!
I would not suggest reading this book as a standalone; this series is better read in order.
Tomi's family already knows he's gay (even though Tomi insists on denying it), and supports and loves him. Windsor's father refused to accept him when he came out, but that was some twenty plus years ago and, sadly, not unusual. The entire town of Jasper is very same-sex love accepting, so the men's reasons felt more psychological than anything. They'd been closeted for so long, they didn't know how to not live a lie.
Concealed Hearts is surprisingly low on the angst. Tomi comes back to Jasper to hang out with Windsor. The two men have an amazing sexual connection (the steam is on the low end, tho) and begin to yearn for a life together.
What prompts their big revelation is a near tragedy surrounding a teenage boy who's been standing up for a friend being bullied. This was a tad dramatic but also heartfelt.
I'm glad Tomi finally apologized to Josiah!
I would not suggest reading this book as a standalone; this series is better read in order.
November 23, 2021
Audio 5 Stars
Story 3.5 Stars
The MCs both being in the closet for sooooo long was a bit extra.
Story 3.5 Stars
The MCs both being in the closet for sooooo long was a bit extra.
September 18, 2021
This book did not work for me but it's probably a me problem. The premise felt forced, both MCs are very deeply closeted, they are 37 and 45. I never understood why they were closeted and it's the main point of tension in the whole book. I also did not get why Tomi did not want to be in Jasper: his loving and accepting family was there and happy to see him, he had no real bad relationships with anyone there. Windsor has gay friends and his best friend is friendly towards LGBTQ+ folks so why hide? It never made sense to me. We are told that the town is nosy but no one notices the fact that Windsor has not been sleeping at his place for over a month, give me a break. You can't have it both ways: either the town is nosy and then after two nights away questions would have started but no he can do what he wants for a month before the rumor mill catches on. Then there is the fact that of course women are throwing themselves left and right onto both MCs and Tomi does not really discourage the behaviour. Belinda has been chasing after Windsor for 2 years, he must not have been clear enough with her which is borderline disrespectful. I had not read the previous books in the series so maybe a few things were explained there but honestly I'm not curious enough to find out. At the outset I felt I was reading a story that had already started without me. I can get why this would work for some people but it was not for me.
October 31, 2020
I don’t think I’ve ever read a romance where both MCs are in the closet.
And after a lifetime of hiding and self-denial (and certainly not a lot of happiness) Windsor and Tomi are certainly totally, hopelessly lost in it.
While I completely understood Windsor’s reasons for pushing the ‘gay away’, I found it more difficult to follow Tomi’s feelings. He does have supportive parents and a gay brother after all.
But, of course, the thing with anxiety is that often it can’t be explained purely by logic.
So, I just went with it all and thoroughly enjoyed this book.
What I liked:
>) ‘Older’ MCs (I refuse to use the term ‘mature’ for ‘mere youngsters' around 40😁)
>) Windsor and Tomi are both really great guys (well, I think Windsor is my favourite of the two). Both had traumatic coming-out experiences that left deep scars behind.
>) The way they talk to each other – openly and honestly, acknowledging their fears and failures. There are no miscommunications and silly assumptions.
>) How they work themselves very gradually towards a point of ‘no return’ in their relationship knowing full well what the consequences could be and still letting it happen.
>) The gentle and tender next to the sizzle and heat.
>) How both men manage to draw a line under their past and make up with people they hurt.
Things that I’m still thinking about:
>) Would they still have come out if there hadn’t been that push by fate?
>) Was the aftermath of their coming out realistic enough?
However, these are minor points.
I have yet to read book 3 in the series (it probably would have helped to have met these guys before, not that this was a problem), but this is my favourite so far!
And after a lifetime of hiding and self-denial (and certainly not a lot of happiness) Windsor and Tomi are certainly totally, hopelessly lost in it.
While I completely understood Windsor’s reasons for pushing the ‘gay away’, I found it more difficult to follow Tomi’s feelings. He does have supportive parents and a gay brother after all.
But, of course, the thing with anxiety is that often it can’t be explained purely by logic.
So, I just went with it all and thoroughly enjoyed this book.
What I liked:
>) ‘Older’ MCs (I refuse to use the term ‘mature’ for ‘mere youngsters' around 40😁)
>) Windsor and Tomi are both really great guys (well, I think Windsor is my favourite of the two). Both had traumatic coming-out experiences that left deep scars behind.
>) The way they talk to each other – openly and honestly, acknowledging their fears and failures. There are no miscommunications and silly assumptions.
>) How they work themselves very gradually towards a point of ‘no return’ in their relationship knowing full well what the consequences could be and still letting it happen.
>) The gentle and tender next to the sizzle and heat.
>) How both men manage to draw a line under their past and make up with people they hurt.
Things that I’m still thinking about:
>) Would they still have come out if there hadn’t been that push by fate?
>) Was the aftermath of their coming out realistic enough?
However, these are minor points.
I have yet to read book 3 in the series (it probably would have helped to have met these guys before, not that this was a problem), but this is my favourite so far!
February 27, 2022
I did something I never do...I read this out of order. 🤦♀️
I clearly saw the #4. I just thought it was one of those large multi-author series and thought I'd read NJ's addition. AND I don't even know why I thought that?!?
BUT!
I loved it. I loved them.
I will never question anyone's reasons (obvious or otherwise) for 'staying in the closet'.
Both of the older MCs are not out. They connect and sparks fly.
They decide to take a chance with a secret affair and see how they work.
They work like a dream.
But is all that they can be? A dream? A secluded cabin fantasy?
There was heart. There was heat. And a man in a uniform with a cowboy hat?! *MAJOR swooning*
And now...I'm running back to the beginning so I can follow the journey of the other couples in town.
Can't wait!
I clearly saw the #4. I just thought it was one of those large multi-author series and thought I'd read NJ's addition. AND I don't even know why I thought that?!?
BUT!
I loved it. I loved them.
I will never question anyone's reasons (obvious or otherwise) for 'staying in the closet'.
Both of the older MCs are not out. They connect and sparks fly.
They decide to take a chance with a secret affair and see how they work.
They work like a dream.
But is all that they can be? A dream? A secluded cabin fantasy?
There was heart. There was heat. And a man in a uniform with a cowboy hat?! *MAJOR swooning*
And now...I'm running back to the beginning so I can follow the journey of the other couples in town.
Can't wait!
January 2, 2023
I can't believe that this is it... This is the last book of the series and I'm not ready to let go. Damn you Nicky James for ending it here. I need more. At least the double. But it's okay. I forgive you since you wrote such a fantastic series.
I did not expect much going into this book. One closeted guy is usually more than I have the patience to deal with. Two? Hell no. Except, I did have the patience to deal with these two closeted guys. The journey to their HEA was beautiful.
I have liked Windsor since he first appeared in the first book. Tomi, not so much. And it took me a long time to warm up to Tomi. For a really long time I didn't connect to him. He had a loving and accepting family, a gay brother and yet refused to come out. Not only refused. He did horrible things to keep his secrets. Truly horrible things. Then things turned around. I got to see how brave he was when push came to shove. This happened quite late in the book and it made the ending feel a bit abrupt. I would have needed some more pages about how things turned out.
Trigger warning below:
I did not expect much going into this book. One closeted guy is usually more than I have the patience to deal with. Two? Hell no. Except, I did have the patience to deal with these two closeted guys. The journey to their HEA was beautiful.
I have liked Windsor since he first appeared in the first book. Tomi, not so much. And it took me a long time to warm up to Tomi. For a really long time I didn't connect to him. He had a loving and accepting family, a gay brother and yet refused to come out. Not only refused. He did horrible things to keep his secrets. Truly horrible things. Then things turned around. I got to see how brave he was when push came to shove. This happened quite late in the book and it made the ending feel a bit abrupt. I would have needed some more pages about how things turned out.
Trigger warning below:
March 12, 2021
This was an incredibly sweet romance between two really scared closeted men.
Windsor is 45, and Tomi is 36 (ish? Can’t remember). Both had horrible experiences with people finding out they were gay and were planning on staying closeted forever. But then they met, and shit happened.
It is hard to understand why a guy like Tomi would stay closeted, when his brother is gay and his whole family is supportive. But anxiety and irrational fear is something I understand all too well.
I loved how they were real and imperfect. I loved the development in the characters throughout the story. This whole series has been real men, having real relationships. No fairytales, but a HEA every time, because that’s what you need in a romance. ❤️
Like the other books in this series, the story is introduced in the previous book, so I think the whole series must be read in order to be fully enjoyed.
Windsor is 45, and Tomi is 36 (ish? Can’t remember). Both had horrible experiences with people finding out they were gay and were planning on staying closeted forever. But then they met, and shit happened.
It is hard to understand why a guy like Tomi would stay closeted, when his brother is gay and his whole family is supportive. But anxiety and irrational fear is something I understand all too well.
I loved how they were real and imperfect. I loved the development in the characters throughout the story. This whole series has been real men, having real relationships. No fairytales, but a HEA every time, because that’s what you need in a romance. ❤️
Like the other books in this series, the story is introduced in the previous book, so I think the whole series must be read in order to be fully enjoyed.
May 9, 2021
Maybe I need to stop gobbling up Nicky James' novels... getting kinda stale.
April 1, 2021
4.75
Last book in the Hometown Jasper series, and i'm sad this is the end. But i really enjoyed It 😍
And Concealed Hearts was amazing even if it broke my heart few times 💔💔
Tomi and Windsor have no reasons to hide who they are, but shame and fear make you do stupid things so ....
One text from Windsor to Tomi is enough to start something that it's supposed to fail given the premesis. But page after page you can see two men come back to life and it's amazing: gah they were so damn cute together 😍😍
For Nicky James' standard this story is really low angst, but don't worry there are few moments of high tension that gonna keep you on the edge of your seat.
As always she is the bearer of important messages and that's probably the thing i love the most about her writing.
Last book in the Hometown Jasper series, and i'm sad this is the end. But i really enjoyed It 😍
And Concealed Hearts was amazing even if it broke my heart few times 💔💔
Tomi and Windsor have no reasons to hide who they are, but shame and fear make you do stupid things so ....
One text from Windsor to Tomi is enough to start something that it's supposed to fail given the premesis. But page after page you can see two men come back to life and it's amazing: gah they were so damn cute together 😍😍
For Nicky James' standard this story is really low angst, but don't worry there are few moments of high tension that gonna keep you on the edge of your seat.
As always she is the bearer of important messages and that's probably the thing i love the most about her writing.
September 18, 2021
This was honestly just… really sad.
There was lots to enjoy but I definitely finished it feeling sad. I found the romance very lacking on page, with far too many fade to black intimate scenes, but the characters communicated SO well.
The side character plot that the police were dealing with was very interesting, but again, sad.
The ending was lovely, though, and I wouldn’t call it a bad book. While it wasn’t the redemption arc I hoped for with Tomi, it was nice to read his perspective.
There was lots to enjoy but I definitely finished it feeling sad. I found the romance very lacking on page, with far too many fade to black intimate scenes, but the characters communicated SO well.
The side character plot that the police were dealing with was very interesting, but again, sad.
The ending was lovely, though, and I wouldn’t call it a bad book. While it wasn’t the redemption arc I hoped for with Tomi, it was nice to read his perspective.
October 22, 2020
4,5☆
Oh my sweet Windsor & Tomi! Finally, and I mean finally! After finishing Josiah & Shay's book, I only wanted one thing and one thing only - this book! And now I'm happy that I have it♥
Two deeply closeted man, one town where're no secret and everyone knows everything about everyone. The town which Tomi left and thought he'll never ever return. But how wrong he was. Because then came Windsor, the Chief of Police and wow - these two together are really, reaaaalllly hot!
Loved how both of them were closeted but still could find the courage to seek out this relationship and be in a secret.
Windsor was really sweet with all of that 'I'm old' crap, and I loved the whole 'who are you secretly dating' thing that went on, it was hilarious that everyone thought he is straight and dating a lady. No one thought for one minute otherwise that Windsor is anything but straight. It. Was. Hilarious.
And so well written! Nicky created these two so good, both Windsor and Tomi were amazing and unique and I loved reading their story.
Tomi was the hardest part of this book, I hurt for him but I couldn't wait to see him coming out. And I couldn't wait him to speak with Josiah and Shay too. It was so emotional!♥
Felix's side of the story was so heartbreaking, and I hoped it would turn out good - and it had!♥ That scene at the High School at midnight... oh god! The real Nicky James came out and played with our favorite characters... bad, bad Nicky! LOL - but so, so well written and full with emotions! I cried a little.
The ending was sweet and cute, but it ended so soon, I just turned the page and it said The End, and I was like whyyyy what how when! I need more!
I have only one tiny probleme what is missing for me - Easton and Lach. I thought they would be at the end too. I wanted a little speach between them and Windsor&Tomi.
But! I can't wait that short with Lucas and Matthew!
Ps. Jordie stole the show again and it was HILARIOUS!
Oh my sweet Windsor & Tomi! Finally, and I mean finally! After finishing Josiah & Shay's book, I only wanted one thing and one thing only - this book! And now I'm happy that I have it♥
Two deeply closeted man, one town where're no secret and everyone knows everything about everyone. The town which Tomi left and thought he'll never ever return. But how wrong he was. Because then came Windsor, the Chief of Police and wow - these two together are really, reaaaalllly hot!
Loved how both of them were closeted but still could find the courage to seek out this relationship and be in a secret.
Windsor was really sweet with all of that 'I'm old' crap, and I loved the whole 'who are you secretly dating' thing that went on, it was hilarious that everyone thought he is straight and dating a lady. No one thought for one minute otherwise that Windsor is anything but straight. It. Was. Hilarious.
And so well written! Nicky created these two so good, both Windsor and Tomi were amazing and unique and I loved reading their story.
Tomi was the hardest part of this book, I hurt for him but I couldn't wait to see him coming out. And I couldn't wait him to speak with Josiah and Shay too. It was so emotional!♥
Felix's side of the story was so heartbreaking, and I hoped it would turn out good - and it had!♥ That scene at the High School at midnight... oh god! The real Nicky James came out and played with our favorite characters... bad, bad Nicky! LOL - but so, so well written and full with emotions! I cried a little.
The ending was sweet and cute, but it ended so soon, I just turned the page and it said The End, and I was like whyyyy what how when! I need more!
I have only one tiny probleme what is missing for me - Easton and Lach. I thought they would be at the end too. I wanted a little speach between them and Windsor&Tomi.
But! I can't wait that short with Lucas and Matthew!
Ps. Jordie stole the show again and it was HILARIOUS!
October 26, 2020
*** 3.5 ***
I'm a little bit conflicted about this book. Tomi and Windsor story was really good. Both are deep in the closet but when they find each they also find a reason to come out and embrace who they really are. Their connection strengthened through the book and "love you" felt real. I loved that coming out was a decision and not being outed by accident. Secondary plot with Felix and Grant - 17 year old boys was fitting.
My problem with the book is that in many ways it felt incomplete. Like, Tomi had a friend in BC - Ivan. He was mentioned a couple of times, was supposed to meet with Tomi when he returns - but the meeting never happened. Did Tomi confess he was gay to him? Windsor's friends and colleagues accepted him, I wanted the same experience for Tomi. Did Tomi and Shay managed to repair their relationships and become friends again? How was back to school for Felix? What happened with Ben who bullied him and Grant? He was never punished.
Epilogue (like in book 1 and 3) was definitely missing. There was a bonus scene and while it was fun it was not about Tomi and Windsor but some guys I really didn't care about.
Plus, the book was relatively low steam. Other books in the series were way hotter.
Higher than 3 because Tomi and Windsor worked together but not truly 4 since I expected more of a closure for them and for series as a whole.
I'm a little bit conflicted about this book. Tomi and Windsor story was really good. Both are deep in the closet but when they find each they also find a reason to come out and embrace who they really are. Their connection strengthened through the book and "love you" felt real. I loved that coming out was a decision and not being outed by accident. Secondary plot with Felix and Grant - 17 year old boys was fitting.
My problem with the book is that in many ways it felt incomplete. Like, Tomi had a friend in BC - Ivan. He was mentioned a couple of times, was supposed to meet with Tomi when he returns - but the meeting never happened. Did Tomi confess he was gay to him? Windsor's friends and colleagues accepted him, I wanted the same experience for Tomi. Did Tomi and Shay managed to repair their relationships and become friends again? How was back to school for Felix? What happened with Ben who bullied him and Grant? He was never punished.
Epilogue (like in book 1 and 3) was definitely missing. There was a bonus scene and while it was fun it was not about Tomi and Windsor but some guys I really didn't care about.
Plus, the book was relatively low steam. Other books in the series were way hotter.
Higher than 3 because Tomi and Windsor worked together but not truly 4 since I expected more of a closure for them and for series as a whole.
October 31, 2023
Audiobook = ***4.5 - 5 Stars*** for the whole series
Story =***4.5 this-shouldn't-have-worked-on-so-many-levels-but-ended-up-being-my-favorite Stars***
Story =***4.5 this-shouldn't-have-worked-on-so-many-levels-but-ended-up-being-my-favorite Stars***
October 31, 2020
Confusing but good.
This one was good. I Liked it but I have to be honest, I didn't understand why both characters were closeted. Particularly the town and other personal experiences they both should have been out and proud. Overall it was pretty good.
This one was good. I Liked it but I have to be honest, I didn't understand why both characters were closeted. Particularly the town and other personal experiences they both should have been out and proud. Overall it was pretty good.
April 19, 2026
Two closeted men in one rumor-hungry small town have no chance of keeping their love a secret. Chief of Police Windsor Elkhart is a master deceiver. Not a single person in Jasper has a clue he’s gay, which explains the endless female suitors all vying for his attention. Happily married to his job, he’s convinced life is good enough. Twenty years of abstinence is the price he chose to pay, all because of a secret he’s too ashamed to reveal. Until Tomi Lee returns to town after a two-decade-long absence. Shame and self-loathing have kept Tomi away from his hometown, but can a simple message from a lonely police officer bring him back for good? The people of Jasper prey on gossip. Everyone is watching everyone. No one is exempt. Falling in love is easy, but do two closeted men have any chance of building a sustainable relationship when they’re always trying to hide?
Tomi and Windsor are amazing together. I have been looking forward for these two to have their story told.
They both are "closeted". They both have different reasons to remain that way. Tomi's reason was more psychological. His brother is gay and his family accepts him, but he refuses to let anyone know. He did a terrible thing when he was younger in order to deny it. Then we meet Windsor who is also in that deep dark closer of his own making. His actions are more understandable when we learn how his father acted to his coming out. Unfortunately, in spite of much more acceptances in today's world, it still isn't a rare happening. Windsor has remained celibate for 20 long years and stays in the small town with Tomi. Poor guy has all the single women chasing after him but and he is a complete gentleman when turning them down.
We also get to meet Felix and Grant, who were great additions to the story. They played a major part in this story and Felix's story. You'll hate Felix's family; they give a whole new meaning to "horrible".
Windsor and Tomi have a great relationship, and the "heat level" is moderate, but it's still there. Eventually everyone in the story manages to work well together to get a happy ending.
There is also a bonus story was also amazing. I'm not sure if it's in the paperback addition but it is in the hardback.
Tomi and Windsor are amazing together. I have been looking forward for these two to have their story told.
They both are "closeted". They both have different reasons to remain that way. Tomi's reason was more psychological. His brother is gay and his family accepts him, but he refuses to let anyone know. He did a terrible thing when he was younger in order to deny it. Then we meet Windsor who is also in that deep dark closer of his own making. His actions are more understandable when we learn how his father acted to his coming out. Unfortunately, in spite of much more acceptances in today's world, it still isn't a rare happening. Windsor has remained celibate for 20 long years and stays in the small town with Tomi. Poor guy has all the single women chasing after him but and he is a complete gentleman when turning them down.
We also get to meet Felix and Grant, who were great additions to the story. They played a major part in this story and Felix's story. You'll hate Felix's family; they give a whole new meaning to "horrible".
Windsor and Tomi have a great relationship, and the "heat level" is moderate, but it's still there. Eventually everyone in the story manages to work well together to get a happy ending.
There is also a bonus story was also amazing. I'm not sure if it's in the paperback addition but it is in the hardback.
October 19, 2020
I just loved Windsor and Tomi’s story. Nicky James has such a way of pulling you into a story and making you fall for her characters. I loved Tomi, complete with his perceived gruff and grumpy exterior. I even appreciated his OCD behaviors and need for order. I felt for him in his need to deny who he was to everyone, including his family. I also adored Windsor. He had such a kind heart. I loved how kind he was to the women who would fawn over him unsuccessfully. I also admired his patience with his staff and best friend who needled him about his love life endlessly. I understood why he felt he also needed to hide his sexuality and who he really was. Windsor just had the biggest heart for anyone who crossed his path. I really loved that about him. Tomi and Windsor were an unlikely match on the surface, but they each carried their own hurts and reasons for staying closeted for so long. I loved how they brought out the best in each other. My heart felt so much for these two as they tried to have it all - each other and keeping their sexuality to themselves. I loved the way their relationship unfolded and it made me love Windsor’s big heart even more. I love how their story wrapped up, as well as the glimpses of other amazing characters we met along the way with this series. Another fantastic read!!
December 13, 2022
Well-told, but—goodness!—didn't I want to knock heads together.
The amazing Jennifer Crusie talks about Negative Motivation (characters deciding NOT to do something that would end conflict) as a huge drag on a plot. Imagine a book where Jack havers for chapter after chapter about whether he'll climb the beanstalk. "Get over yourself, lad! Climb the effing beanstalk & we can all get on with the story." That's Tomi & Windsor.
[Not Nicky James' fault at all, but the only 'Windsor' I've come across is the comic actor Windsor Davies, & this is...not your romantic hero.]
The amazing Jennifer Crusie talks about Negative Motivation (characters deciding NOT to do something that would end conflict) as a huge drag on a plot. Imagine a book where Jack havers for chapter after chapter about whether he'll climb the beanstalk. "Get over yourself, lad! Climb the effing beanstalk & we can all get on with the story." That's Tomi & Windsor.
[Not Nicky James' fault at all, but the only 'Windsor' I've come across is the comic actor Windsor Davies, & this is...not your romantic hero.]
October 18, 2020
It has been a while sinde I was drawn into a book this way. This is so amazingly well written, the characters so beautifully drawn, even minor characters in the city.
Yet it was so sad😭 I cried and muffled my way through it, AND I smiled a lot too❤️it has a happy ending for sure! I am now going to read the 3 previous books in this series, I do not know how I missed them. Yes, this is the 4th book, but it can be read as a standalone, though you definitely will want to read the others, the MCs from these books are characters in this too.
I strongly recommend this - remember the Kleenex though😅❤️
The fact that so many gay/queer people still feel they need to stay in the closet breaks my heart in so many ways...
Yet it was so sad😭 I cried and muffled my way through it, AND I smiled a lot too❤️it has a happy ending for sure! I am now going to read the 3 previous books in this series, I do not know how I missed them. Yes, this is the 4th book, but it can be read as a standalone, though you definitely will want to read the others, the MCs from these books are characters in this too.
I strongly recommend this - remember the Kleenex though😅❤️
The fact that so many gay/queer people still feel they need to stay in the closet breaks my heart in so many ways...
December 13, 2020
Perfect, Absolutely Perfect
We met sheriff Windsor Elkhart and Tomi Lee in the previous book and although we had no real scenes with them there were hints that they liked each other. That was going to be an issue because both of them are deeply closeted--the 46-year-old Windsor, on the cover, and the 35-year-old Tomi clinging to desperate paths to cover up life changing events that forced them to subjugate who they a really are.
This book tells you who they are, what they became, how they met, and how they struggle mightily to become involved. It's explosive and unsettling in many ways because both of these characters are sympathetic if deeply flawed as well.
Author Nicky James brings us, and them, along with some delicious interventions of all the men from the previous books--Josiah and Shea, Lucky and Knox, and that snarky and hilarious 11-year-old Percy, whom Ethan and Lachlan have adopted, as well as that crazy lady Mallory, the fortune teller.
You really have to struggle to figure out a way that there might be a HEA here, but nothing will prepare you for the incident that turns both their lives, and the consciousness of Jasper, around.
This book rolls slowly into a brilliantly conceived and executed denouement that will lift your hear and maybe bring a tear or two of jo to your eyes. Get it after you finish the previous three books and you will not regret it for a minute.
We met sheriff Windsor Elkhart and Tomi Lee in the previous book and although we had no real scenes with them there were hints that they liked each other. That was going to be an issue because both of them are deeply closeted--the 46-year-old Windsor, on the cover, and the 35-year-old Tomi clinging to desperate paths to cover up life changing events that forced them to subjugate who they a really are.
This book tells you who they are, what they became, how they met, and how they struggle mightily to become involved. It's explosive and unsettling in many ways because both of these characters are sympathetic if deeply flawed as well.
Author Nicky James brings us, and them, along with some delicious interventions of all the men from the previous books--Josiah and Shea, Lucky and Knox, and that snarky and hilarious 11-year-old Percy, whom Ethan and Lachlan have adopted, as well as that crazy lady Mallory, the fortune teller.
You really have to struggle to figure out a way that there might be a HEA here, but nothing will prepare you for the incident that turns both their lives, and the consciousness of Jasper, around.
This book rolls slowly into a brilliantly conceived and executed denouement that will lift your hear and maybe bring a tear or two of jo to your eyes. Get it after you finish the previous three books and you will not regret it for a minute.
May 15, 2021
What a fabulous end to a fabulous series! I adored this book, Nicky James just sucks me in with everything she writes. I was right back in Jasper and felt like I was visiting old friends. She just writes books in a way that just emmerse me into the story. The details, the dialogue, the way the story unfolds...its just so so good!
This was Windsor and Tomi's story and I have been waiting for it since we felt their spark in book 3. It did not disappoint. Their connection was so strong, the way they came together was so sweet, and so heartbreaking at the same time since they were both hiding their true selves. Their first times together were very intimate and very touching. But this book was about so much more than their romance...it was about finding your true self, finding courage, taking chances and finding love that is all around you. There was a secondary story here that melted my heart too and just added such a wonderful layer of depth to the entire series. The town of Jasper, and many of the residents we have grown to know and love, are front and center and it was just perfect. While I am sad it is over, it was a perfect end to this splendid and enjoyable series!!!!
This was Windsor and Tomi's story and I have been waiting for it since we felt their spark in book 3. It did not disappoint. Their connection was so strong, the way they came together was so sweet, and so heartbreaking at the same time since they were both hiding their true selves. Their first times together were very intimate and very touching. But this book was about so much more than their romance...it was about finding your true self, finding courage, taking chances and finding love that is all around you. There was a secondary story here that melted my heart too and just added such a wonderful layer of depth to the entire series. The town of Jasper, and many of the residents we have grown to know and love, are front and center and it was just perfect. While I am sad it is over, it was a perfect end to this splendid and enjoyable series!!!!
October 24, 2020
I expected more from this one...
it was just MEH.. i liked the premise of them in Shay's book but not the delivery..
i felt like something was missing to bring them together, i wished the author added more chapters of them from the prior book, but nope, we jump right in the book after Tomi leaves and they exchanged a few messages and that it, they start being a thing ...it bothered me for real, there is no built up connection and relationship :( also i felt nothing between them, some chemistry :( .
Over all i liked the read only because i read all the other books and i wanted to see how they story will go too, if it wasn't a part of a series i would've skipped it. They are an ok couple but nothing special.
it was just MEH.. i liked the premise of them in Shay's book but not the delivery..
i felt like something was missing to bring them together, i wished the author added more chapters of them from the prior book, but nope, we jump right in the book after Tomi leaves and they exchanged a few messages and that it, they start being a thing ...it bothered me for real, there is no built up connection and relationship :( also i felt nothing between them, some chemistry :( .
Over all i liked the read only because i read all the other books and i wanted to see how they story will go too, if it wasn't a part of a series i would've skipped it. They are an ok couple but nothing special.
October 17, 2020
I was so mad at Tomi in the previous Jasper Hearts book that I thought there was no way anything could change my mind about him. I should have known that Nicky would do his and Windsor's story justice.
While I didn't agree with either man's choice to stay closeted, I could understand the circumstances and emotions that led them to hide, and that's about all I could ask for in a story like this. In some ways, them being closeted made their romance more exciting. I've never seen someone get so nervous about sending a simple email, and when Windsor and Tomi talked on the phone for the first time I just about melted from all the adorable rambling.
What made this story so special to me wasn't how unexpectedly thrilling all the sneaking around was, but how wonderful it was to see Windsor and Tomi grow comfortable being their true selves. Even if at first they could only be open in private, the trust it took for them to keep coming back day after day gave me hope that one day they'd be comfortable enough to stop hiding. For two men who've had very few partners, their sexual compatibility was off the charts! I wasn't sure how steamy this book could be with two secretive people, but the things they did in that cabin were unbelievably hot.
When Felix was first introduced in this story, he was a tiny blip on my radar, and I figured I'd never see him again. Little did I know that he'd be responsible for one of the most heart-wrenchingly lovely moments in this entire series. I was seriously bawling when he and Windsor had their moment on the roof, and everything that came after made me love Windsor and Tomi even more. I'm trying really hard not to spoil any surprises, but I just couldn't review this story without mentioning this amazing side character.
Though I'm sad there won't be any more stories from Jasper, I also know that all the drama and struggles are over. Each couple in this series has found their way to a happier place, and all that's left is for them to live their best lives together.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
While I didn't agree with either man's choice to stay closeted, I could understand the circumstances and emotions that led them to hide, and that's about all I could ask for in a story like this. In some ways, them being closeted made their romance more exciting. I've never seen someone get so nervous about sending a simple email, and when Windsor and Tomi talked on the phone for the first time I just about melted from all the adorable rambling.
What made this story so special to me wasn't how unexpectedly thrilling all the sneaking around was, but how wonderful it was to see Windsor and Tomi grow comfortable being their true selves. Even if at first they could only be open in private, the trust it took for them to keep coming back day after day gave me hope that one day they'd be comfortable enough to stop hiding. For two men who've had very few partners, their sexual compatibility was off the charts! I wasn't sure how steamy this book could be with two secretive people, but the things they did in that cabin were unbelievably hot.
When Felix was first introduced in this story, he was a tiny blip on my radar, and I figured I'd never see him again. Little did I know that he'd be responsible for one of the most heart-wrenchingly lovely moments in this entire series. I was seriously bawling when he and Windsor had their moment on the roof, and everything that came after made me love Windsor and Tomi even more. I'm trying really hard not to spoil any surprises, but I just couldn't review this story without mentioning this amazing side character.
Though I'm sad there won't be any more stories from Jasper, I also know that all the drama and struggles are over. Each couple in this series has found their way to a happier place, and all that's left is for them to live their best lives together.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
October 27, 2020
J'aurais vraiment voulu prolonger l'attente avant de me plonger dans ce quatrième et dernier tome. Mais j'avais trop envie de retourner à Jasper...
Dans ce dernier tome, Nicky James nous offre cette fois l'histoire de Tomi Lee et de Windsor Elkhart. Une histoire assez particulière et bien différente des autres car nous avons affaire à des hommes plus âgés mais profondément dans le placard et pétrifiés à l'idée d'en sortir.
Tomi Lee... on a eu un petit aperçu de ce personnage dans le tome précédent. Le moins que l'on puisse dire est qu'il ne fait pas bonne impression, mais pourtant je savais que l'auteur allait faire de son histoire quelque chose de particulier. Tomi, c'est le grand-frère de Shay, et l'ancien ami et petit-ami de Josiah. Il n'est pas en très bon terme avec ses deux derniers. Tomi a blessé Josiah, mais pourtant Shay ne lui tourne pas le dos. Il en est de même pour sa famille qui désire le voir plus souvent.
Tomi a tapé dans l'oeil du chef de police Windsor lors de sa précédente vite à Jasper lors de l'hospitalisation de Shay et les deux hommes vont vouloir se revoir.
Ah la la Windsor ! J'ai tellement aimé en savoir plus sur ce personnage, rentrer dans sa tête. Le voir douter mais pourtant franchir le cap de la première tentative de contact avec Tomi était adorable. Sa position est délicate, en tant que chef de la police de Jasper. Il sait pour autant que les personnages les plus importantes de son entourage réagiraient pourtant assez bien au fait qu'il soit gay, seulement il est difficile de sortir d'un mensonge, certes qui n'en est pas vraiment un, mais quand même.
J'ai aimé voir ce petit couple évoluer. La romance est plus posée, mais n'en reste pas moins sexy et intense. Le doute et l'incertitude planent tout le long, on a tellement envie de les voir épanouis tous les deux dans leur petite ville. J'ai aimé la façon dont l'auteur a mené tout ça, j'ai adoré les découvrir à deux et les voir se découvrir eux-mêmes. Leurs interactions et leurs moments intimes étaient si touchants et beaux.
J'ai aimé aussi l'intrigue de fond concernant les élèves du collèges et le parallélisme avec l'histoire des deux hommes plus âgés.
Concernant les personnages secondaires, j'ai beaucoup aimé suivre les collègues notamment de Windsor qui ajoute une bonne touche d'humour au récit !
Encore un super tome, c'est émouvant, mais drôle aussi ! Comme pour trois autres tomes de la série, Nicky James nous a offert des bonus. J'ai été surprise de voir que celui concernant ce tome-là était centré sur deux autres personnages ! Ahah mais c'était trop bien !
C'est définitivement une série que je relirai avec grand plaisir, une série doudou avec des personnages tellement attachants... Ce que j'aimerais pouvoir faire ma valise et réserver une chambre chez Easton.... Tous ces personnages vont tellement me manquer :'(
Dans ce dernier tome, Nicky James nous offre cette fois l'histoire de Tomi Lee et de Windsor Elkhart. Une histoire assez particulière et bien différente des autres car nous avons affaire à des hommes plus âgés mais profondément dans le placard et pétrifiés à l'idée d'en sortir.
Tomi Lee... on a eu un petit aperçu de ce personnage dans le tome précédent. Le moins que l'on puisse dire est qu'il ne fait pas bonne impression, mais pourtant je savais que l'auteur allait faire de son histoire quelque chose de particulier. Tomi, c'est le grand-frère de Shay, et l'ancien ami et petit-ami de Josiah. Il n'est pas en très bon terme avec ses deux derniers. Tomi a blessé Josiah, mais pourtant Shay ne lui tourne pas le dos. Il en est de même pour sa famille qui désire le voir plus souvent.
Tomi a tapé dans l'oeil du chef de police Windsor lors de sa précédente vite à Jasper lors de l'hospitalisation de Shay et les deux hommes vont vouloir se revoir.
Ah la la Windsor ! J'ai tellement aimé en savoir plus sur ce personnage, rentrer dans sa tête. Le voir douter mais pourtant franchir le cap de la première tentative de contact avec Tomi était adorable. Sa position est délicate, en tant que chef de la police de Jasper. Il sait pour autant que les personnages les plus importantes de son entourage réagiraient pourtant assez bien au fait qu'il soit gay, seulement il est difficile de sortir d'un mensonge, certes qui n'en est pas vraiment un, mais quand même.
J'ai aimé voir ce petit couple évoluer. La romance est plus posée, mais n'en reste pas moins sexy et intense. Le doute et l'incertitude planent tout le long, on a tellement envie de les voir épanouis tous les deux dans leur petite ville. J'ai aimé la façon dont l'auteur a mené tout ça, j'ai adoré les découvrir à deux et les voir se découvrir eux-mêmes. Leurs interactions et leurs moments intimes étaient si touchants et beaux.
J'ai aimé aussi l'intrigue de fond concernant les élèves du collèges et le parallélisme avec l'histoire des deux hommes plus âgés.
Concernant les personnages secondaires, j'ai beaucoup aimé suivre les collègues notamment de Windsor qui ajoute une bonne touche d'humour au récit !
Encore un super tome, c'est émouvant, mais drôle aussi ! Comme pour trois autres tomes de la série, Nicky James nous a offert des bonus. J'ai été surprise de voir que celui concernant ce tome-là était centré sur deux autres personnages ! Ahah mais c'était trop bien !
C'est définitivement une série que je relirai avec grand plaisir, une série doudou avec des personnages tellement attachants... Ce que j'aimerais pouvoir faire ma valise et réserver une chambre chez Easton.... Tous ces personnages vont tellement me manquer :'(
October 9, 2025
3.5 stars for the story, 4.5 for the narration
I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would when I started listening to it. Two mature (37 and 45) guys being deeply closeted for what appeared to be little reason sounded like it would be frustrating; and it was, for a while. But the author does a pretty good job of explaining why Winston and Tomi have hidden their true selves for so long, and later, of showing how their developing relationship is being negatively affected by their hiding so that while I kinda wanted to bang their heads together, I understood that being closeted had become so much a part of who they are now that it was really hard for them to envisage living any other way.
There's a bit of drama injected by some nastiness going down at the local school involving a boy who keeps getting into fights; it's easy to guess what's going on so I had to ask myself why Winston didn't see it, but I suppose the blinkers he insisted on wearing about his own sexuality could have blinded him to the obvious.
Nick J. Russo does a fabulous job with the narration, delivering a strongly characterised and expressive performance, with clear differentiation and a good variety of character voices. All the books in this series are much 'quieter' than many of Nicky James' other books - but they're enjoyable stories, and Nick J. Russo's narration is always worth the price of admission.
I enjoyed this one more than I thought I would when I started listening to it. Two mature (37 and 45) guys being deeply closeted for what appeared to be little reason sounded like it would be frustrating; and it was, for a while. But the author does a pretty good job of explaining why Winston and Tomi have hidden their true selves for so long, and later, of showing how their developing relationship is being negatively affected by their hiding so that while I kinda wanted to bang their heads together, I understood that being closeted had become so much a part of who they are now that it was really hard for them to envisage living any other way.
There's a bit of drama injected by some nastiness going down at the local school involving a boy who keeps getting into fights; it's easy to guess what's going on so I had to ask myself why Winston didn't see it, but I suppose the blinkers he insisted on wearing about his own sexuality could have blinded him to the obvious.
Nick J. Russo does a fabulous job with the narration, delivering a strongly characterised and expressive performance, with clear differentiation and a good variety of character voices. All the books in this series are much 'quieter' than many of Nicky James' other books - but they're enjoyable stories, and Nick J. Russo's narration is always worth the price of admission.
May 24, 2021
We met Tomi in Shay’s book and we’ve known Windsor since book one. Both of the men are so deeply closeted out of fear of people’s reactions.
Windsor broke my heart about why he remained closeted. His past with his first boyfriend is sad and the behavior of his parents was awful. His choice to stay closeted is because of fear of losing his job, his town, and his friends. He doesn’t trust anyone including his best friend.
Tomi is closeted because of his past and his non acceptance of being gay. Due to fear of being outted he created unnecessary drama and gossip which resulted in his ex being treated terribly.
Sparks flew with these two in Shay’s story until Tomi runs away scared. However, Windsor extends the olive branch to try to see where things go.
It’s a case of let’s spend time together but in hiding and make sure no one sees us together to see where this may go.
I really did have a hard time liking Tomi until the end of the book.
I love the side story involving Felix. That really touched my heart and made me ache for him. So glad he got the love and support from two unexpected people.
Let’s just say Matt is a trip. He had me on the floor laughing at him. Don’t forget his little short at the end. You’ll love it
Windsor broke my heart about why he remained closeted. His past with his first boyfriend is sad and the behavior of his parents was awful. His choice to stay closeted is because of fear of losing his job, his town, and his friends. He doesn’t trust anyone including his best friend.
Tomi is closeted because of his past and his non acceptance of being gay. Due to fear of being outted he created unnecessary drama and gossip which resulted in his ex being treated terribly.
Sparks flew with these two in Shay’s story until Tomi runs away scared. However, Windsor extends the olive branch to try to see where things go.
It’s a case of let’s spend time together but in hiding and make sure no one sees us together to see where this may go.
I really did have a hard time liking Tomi until the end of the book.
I love the side story involving Felix. That really touched my heart and made me ache for him. So glad he got the love and support from two unexpected people.
Let’s just say Matt is a trip. He had me on the floor laughing at him. Don’t forget his little short at the end. You’ll love it
April 1, 2021
This is the final book in Mrs James's Hometown Jasper series, and I will miss this town.
Concealed Hearts is Windsor and Tomi's story. Chief Windsor in cameoed in previous books and I was delighted when book 3 hinted that he would get his own story.
Tomi is Shay's older brother. While I did not warm to him in Forgetful Hearts, I was curious to read his story and understand why he felt he had to hide his sexuality, when his family was so understanding and already suspected he wasn't as straight as he let on.
I loved how the relationship between Windsor and Tomi developed. very quickly and very naturally.
I was intrigued to read how Mrs James would keep two closeted men out of the gossip mill in small-town Jasper. She can tell a story. She draws you in makes you feel that you are there in living side by side with her characters.
Concealed Hearts is Windsor and Tomi's story. Chief Windsor in cameoed in previous books and I was delighted when book 3 hinted that he would get his own story.
Tomi is Shay's older brother. While I did not warm to him in Forgetful Hearts, I was curious to read his story and understand why he felt he had to hide his sexuality, when his family was so understanding and already suspected he wasn't as straight as he let on.
I loved how the relationship between Windsor and Tomi developed. very quickly and very naturally.
I was intrigued to read how Mrs James would keep two closeted men out of the gossip mill in small-town Jasper. She can tell a story. She draws you in makes you feel that you are there in living side by side with her characters.
October 24, 2020
Ce n’est pas sans un pincement au cœur que j’ai entamé la lecture de Concealed hearts car il s’agit du dernier tome de la série Hometown Jasper, c'est triste de dire aurevoir à cette petite ville et à ses habitants.
Cette fois la romance concerne deux hommes profondément enfouis dans leur placard…Dans le tome précédent, la connexion entre Windsor, le chef de la police de Jasper et Tomi, le frère de Shay était bien mis en valeur. Et étant donné la personnalité de Tomi, qui n’était pas franchement agréable ou attachant, leur histoire représentait un petit challenge… et (oh surprise lol) il a été parfaitement relévé par Nicky James.
Je ne vais pas m’appesantir sur l’intrigue, celle-ci est centrée sur cette relation si particulière car elle doit rester secrète, mais elle permet aussi de suivre Windsor dans son quotidien de policier avec des lycéens qui lui donneront du fil à retordre. Et à ce sujet, mon cœur s’est vraiment serré…
Je n’ai pas pu m’empêcher de ressentir une tristesse infinie pour Windsor et Tomi, ils ont vécu la plus grande partie de leur existence cachés, en s’interdisant d’aimer au grand jour… Les voir ensemble goûter au bonheur est donc vraiment réconfortant même s’ils sont dévorés par le doute et la peur tant l’idée du coming-out les terrifie.
Tomi m’avait vraiment hérissé le poil lors du précédent tome, et s’il ne fait pas partie de mes personnages préférés de la série, j’ai aimé le découvrir sous un autre jour : il se montre ici vulnérable , plus humain et j’ai même eu un faible pour sa tendance à jouer les fées du logis maniaques ! Et puis surtout, Tomi a conscience de s’être comporté de la pire des manières et on comprend que profond mal-être l’empêche de franchir certaines barrières.
Windsor est quant à lui craquant avec son grand cœur, sa relation compliquée avec la technologie (je me suis sentie moins seule…) et la façon dont il prend si soin des habitants de sa ville. Leur romance est douce et sexy à la fois même si l’incertitude est omniprésente. Et je dois dire que le passage charnière est wooooow !
Depuis le 3ème tome, j’attendais une scène avec impatience, elle est bien présente mais j’avoue que j’aurais aimé avoir droit à un dialogue un peu plus approfondi mais bon je pinaille…
Ce roman contient aussi une bonne dose d’humour grâce à une floppée de personnages secondaires exceptionnels. Les collègues de Windsor sont hilarants, un peu lourdingues mais adorables…mon petit Matthew est juste irrésistible ! Jordie et son obsession pour le « butt sex » m’a encore bien fait rire ; on retrouve avec plaisir certains héros des tomes précédents tout comme le petit Percy, si drôle et qui donne un sacré boulot à ses parents !
Un petit mot sur la scène bonus qui accompagne ce roman : géniale ! Ahlala c’était cute, sexy et drôle tout à la fois. J’applaudis l’autrice pour avoir eu l’excellente idée de mettre en valeur ces deux gars 🥰
Cette fois la romance concerne deux hommes profondément enfouis dans leur placard…Dans le tome précédent, la connexion entre Windsor, le chef de la police de Jasper et Tomi, le frère de Shay était bien mis en valeur. Et étant donné la personnalité de Tomi, qui n’était pas franchement agréable ou attachant, leur histoire représentait un petit challenge… et (oh surprise lol) il a été parfaitement relévé par Nicky James.
Je ne vais pas m’appesantir sur l’intrigue, celle-ci est centrée sur cette relation si particulière car elle doit rester secrète, mais elle permet aussi de suivre Windsor dans son quotidien de policier avec des lycéens qui lui donneront du fil à retordre. Et à ce sujet, mon cœur s’est vraiment serré…
Je n’ai pas pu m’empêcher de ressentir une tristesse infinie pour Windsor et Tomi, ils ont vécu la plus grande partie de leur existence cachés, en s’interdisant d’aimer au grand jour… Les voir ensemble goûter au bonheur est donc vraiment réconfortant même s’ils sont dévorés par le doute et la peur tant l’idée du coming-out les terrifie.
Tomi m’avait vraiment hérissé le poil lors du précédent tome, et s’il ne fait pas partie de mes personnages préférés de la série, j’ai aimé le découvrir sous un autre jour : il se montre ici vulnérable , plus humain et j’ai même eu un faible pour sa tendance à jouer les fées du logis maniaques ! Et puis surtout, Tomi a conscience de s’être comporté de la pire des manières et on comprend que profond mal-être l’empêche de franchir certaines barrières.
Windsor est quant à lui craquant avec son grand cœur, sa relation compliquée avec la technologie (je me suis sentie moins seule…) et la façon dont il prend si soin des habitants de sa ville. Leur romance est douce et sexy à la fois même si l’incertitude est omniprésente. Et je dois dire que le passage charnière est wooooow !
Depuis le 3ème tome, j’attendais une scène avec impatience, elle est bien présente mais j’avoue que j’aurais aimé avoir droit à un dialogue un peu plus approfondi mais bon je pinaille…
Ce roman contient aussi une bonne dose d’humour grâce à une floppée de personnages secondaires exceptionnels. Les collègues de Windsor sont hilarants, un peu lourdingues mais adorables…mon petit Matthew est juste irrésistible ! Jordie et son obsession pour le « butt sex » m’a encore bien fait rire ; on retrouve avec plaisir certains héros des tomes précédents tout comme le petit Percy, si drôle et qui donne un sacré boulot à ses parents !
Un petit mot sur la scène bonus qui accompagne ce roman : géniale ! Ahlala c’était cute, sexy et drôle tout à la fois. J’applaudis l’autrice pour avoir eu l’excellente idée de mettre en valeur ces deux gars 🥰
October 28, 2020
3.75 ⭐️’s
First off I need to say something about this cover. It’s not my favorite. Who is that supposed to be? Obviously it’s supposed to be Windsor but what’s with the tattoo? Unless I missed it, and if I did please let me know, there was no mention of a tattoo on Windsor’s chest or anywhere else in this story. I envisioned Windsor differently in my head and I think this picture doesn’t do him any justice. That’s my personal opinion though.
Okay, the story. I love Windsor. Since book 1 I was hoping we’d get a story for him. He just seemed like a strong and sexy character. I love the idea of the closeted chief of police having a secret love affair I just wasn’t too keen on it being with Tomi Lee.
I never understood why Tomi had such an issue with being gay and running from Jasper when it was obvious he was gay and especially since his brother came out and no one had an issue with it, especially not his parents. Tomi seemed like a selfish character who didn’t have a backbone. He was almost like a wet rag to me. I never got a personality from him and what was with the Lee brothers and their hang ups? Shay with food and Tomi with cleaning. I was not a fan of either Lee brother. I didn’t hate Tomi but I didn’t see why Windsor was attracted to him.
I do find it crazy that Windsor could go without sex for 20 years! I felt bad for the guy. He really lived for his job for all that time. I did understand more why he was afraid to come out but I felt like he wouldn’t have been so hesitant if Tomi wasn’t from the start.
I really enjoyed the subplot with Felix & Grant. I almost enjoyed them more than Windsor & Tomi. I would have loved to read more about their young love.
This series was fun and I enjoyed every book. Jasper was an entertaining town even though the residents are way too nosy! I’m really glad I read this series. My favorite book was book 2. I loved Lucky & Knox, they were my favorite.
First off I need to say something about this cover. It’s not my favorite. Who is that supposed to be? Obviously it’s supposed to be Windsor but what’s with the tattoo? Unless I missed it, and if I did please let me know, there was no mention of a tattoo on Windsor’s chest or anywhere else in this story. I envisioned Windsor differently in my head and I think this picture doesn’t do him any justice. That’s my personal opinion though.
Okay, the story. I love Windsor. Since book 1 I was hoping we’d get a story for him. He just seemed like a strong and sexy character. I love the idea of the closeted chief of police having a secret love affair I just wasn’t too keen on it being with Tomi Lee.
I never understood why Tomi had such an issue with being gay and running from Jasper when it was obvious he was gay and especially since his brother came out and no one had an issue with it, especially not his parents. Tomi seemed like a selfish character who didn’t have a backbone. He was almost like a wet rag to me. I never got a personality from him and what was with the Lee brothers and their hang ups? Shay with food and Tomi with cleaning. I was not a fan of either Lee brother. I didn’t hate Tomi but I didn’t see why Windsor was attracted to him.
I do find it crazy that Windsor could go without sex for 20 years! I felt bad for the guy. He really lived for his job for all that time. I did understand more why he was afraid to come out but I felt like he wouldn’t have been so hesitant if Tomi wasn’t from the start.
I really enjoyed the subplot with Felix & Grant. I almost enjoyed them more than Windsor & Tomi. I would have loved to read more about their young love.
This series was fun and I enjoyed every book. Jasper was an entertaining town even though the residents are way too nosy! I’m really glad I read this series. My favorite book was book 2. I loved Lucky & Knox, they were my favorite.
October 22, 2020
If you've skipped reading Nicky James because of he reputation for bringing the angst, the Hometown Hearts is your chance to experience her talent. These stories are charming and sweet, with just enough angst to keep them from being syrupy. Forgetful Hearts, the previous book, was the one exception, but even it isn't gut-wrenching, just emotional. Concealed Hearts has some angst in the true definitition of the word as it explores the relationship between two deeply closeted men who have no desire to come out. It's the only one of the series you really can't read without having read the other books in the series, and it's beautifully layered with characters that grow and change, which in Tomi's case is a good thing because he'd been a real jerk. Windsor is dreamy and everything Tomi needed but didn't realize it. I recommend the whole series, but this one's my favorite!
October 22, 2020
I was a little anxious to start this considering I did not like Tomi at all in the previous book. But, he’s written to be such a complex character that I really felt myself going through that journey with him as he finally got to find peace with himself. It is beautiful and so very emotional. But Windsor was the real heartbreaker for me. I teared up at his reasons for staying closeted, and all I wanted was for him to get his happy ending. Like the previous books in the series, it’s fairly low angst, and packed full of humour and heart, with all the small town feels you could need.
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