Finally! Sam and Cooper's long-awaited story is here... a second chance gay romance, with a guaranteed HEA.
Sam...
Coming out of the closet was easy. Falling in love with a man twice my age was not. Cooper grew up old-school, hiding his true self. He may be the love of my life, but I can’t be his dirty little secret any longer. He needs to man up and claim me if he wants to keep me. Just when I think we're finally making progress, his past comes back to bite him with a vengeance. His old demons might just want to kill him, literally. But not if I have anything to say about it. I'll gladly bleed for him.
Ruined is book 6 in the McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series, but it can be read standalone.
The series in order:
Vulnerable, book 1 Fearless, book 2 Shane, book 2.5 (a novella) Broken, book 3 Shattered, book 4 Imperfect, book 5 Ruined, book 6
Coming next: Hostage, book 7 Redeemed, book 8 ...plus a lot more.
I write about alpha protectors who fall in love hard and unconditionally, through the good and the bad. My characters are strong, sexy, and slightly damaged... because no one is perfect. All of my novels have happy-ever-after endings. What else would you expect from a die-hard romantic? I'm the author of the McIntyre Security Bodyguard Series of contemporary romance novels.
I live in Ohio with my daughter and more than a few dogs and cats. When I'm not writing, I'm reading romance novels and watching movies with happy endings. I'd love to hear from you! You can e-mail me at aprilwilsonwrites@outlook.com. Or, visit my website: aprilwilsonauthor.com.
I enjoyed this for the most part. Cooper was that dominant alpha that I just adore. I liked Sam too. I did have a few things that bugged me and kept me from rating it higher.
I felt like I was dropped in the middle of a story already since they were/had been a couple when the story starts. Yeah, I know it's in a series and I didn't read the other books since they were MF. I curious as to the other characters so at some point I may go back and read them. However, the author did tell a little of their backstory and why they were where they were when the book opens. I just wish I could have read how they met and the development of their relationship in THIS book. I would have found that much more interesting than some of what transpired. Which leads me to my next issue. ➡➡➡ I just got bored about 60% in. Just day to day stuff and Sam doing his strength training kind of bored me so I started to skim.
The other thing that kind of bugged me was I felt like Sam could have been a heroine the way he was written. He wasn't exactly "femme" but I would have thought his thoughts and actions would have been a little more "tough" sounding. Other than him working at McIntyre Security as a bodyguard, nothing really made me think he was a HE, well other than his dick 😂.
But even with those few issues, which are entirely a "me" thing, I did enjoy it and would definitely read more in this series especially if they were MM. The author knows how to write a hot MM scene for sure.
**** Here in this M/F series, McIntyre Security Bodyguards, we have out first M/M story ! **** * Older Cooper, former Marine, near 50, with short gray hair, is a silver fox,
and * Younger ginger Sam, ex-Army Ranger, 28, pierced and tattooed, are struggling in their relationship.
Sam left town to recoup and rehab from a fractured skull and broken leg, which he got protecting and saving his boss's wife, Beth. His boss, Shane, shows up to bring Sam home to Chicago. Cooper, a teen in the 70s, was beaten and tied up with his friend, and then thrown into the river to drown by three bullies. He is in fear of that hatred coming into play with his and Sam's relationship. They end up on a mission to eradicate the three horrible men, who are now a Sheriff, a Judge, and a Coach; those who got away with his friend's murder, and his attempted murder. Sweetwater River Bridge....scene of the crime...
* There is lots of suspense, action, planning, hatred and deserved justice. Our men have hot sexy times, and discussions about Cooper finally being more open in their relationship, because Sam wants to live openly. It seems odd that at their ages they haven't figured this out, but they are both new to romance, and Sam was raised in an era of more freedom. Cooper doesn't want them to be targets, and I can see both sides.
There is much happening, and we get a glimpse into what living together will be like for them. They help each other come to terms with some things. Some justice was met, but the coach is on the loose after jumping bail.
Terrific tension, with a shootout in the woods, a rescue, a wrap-up and more. We get sentimentality, deep emotions, and a marvelous epilogue. ENJOY !
I really enjoyed this, and it was different. The MCS are together for most of the book. There is good communication after a major misunderstanding, and it's refreshing to see. It is an age gap romance, but it was done well. It is part of a series, but it can definitely be read as a standalone. Both MCS work for a security firm and are ex-military, so in essence badasses. There is major trauma from the past that turns this into a more exciting read. I really did like it, and would read this author again.
Okay, where do I start? I picked this one up against my better judgment. The only romance I read is M/M romance. So, I almost always stay away from authors who write M/F and decide to dabble in the M/M genre of romance. With the exception of VERY, VERY few authors, I have been disappointed. BUT...my love of anything law enforcement, bodyguard/security, etc...I decided to pick this one up anyway. I did almost DNF this one and in hindsight, I probably should have. But, I persisted and got through it. And, believe me it was a struggle. And not just because it dragged on and on and on. My biggest issue is the issue I seem to always have when I read a M/F author's M/M book. One of the MC's was written pretty much as a woman. Now, if you read this one, and you're an avid M/M reader, you'll understand what I'm talking about here. This one read like a M/F romance. The only thing that made it M/M was certain body parts during any love scenes. Even the name of the one MC(Sam) could have been a woman's name. It's like the author really wrote an M/F book and then just went back and changed the sex scenes to all male body parts after the fact. I have no issue when M/F writers give us a M/M story within an established series, but please just do it right. This was not right. The author used just about every stereotype imaginable of gay men in their depiction of Sam. Here was an almost 30 year old man who acted like a 12 year old girl, talked like a 12 year old girl, loved shopping, describing women's clothes, hanging out with only the girls at gatherings, etc. He was supposed to have been ex-military, a bad-ass personal security agent and he just was written as the complete opposite. I just can't. I realize I'm not really describing my point here too well, and I'm not really sure I could actually put it into words even though I'm trying to here. All I can say is that if you're a M/M reader, don't bother with this one. It will probably make you stabby.
So.... 3.5 stars rounded down. Writing is not bad. No glaring errors. Easy to follow. There’s a very simple plot, but....
There’s no real depth. It’s extremely straightforward. Too much filler. There’s supposed to be suspense and yet no real suspense. No real action either. And what I liked best was Cooper. He just suddenly went from being a complex closeted man to gushy and not quite in his character, overly gushy for lack of better word. It just wasn’t realistic. I kinda disappointed me. You can express your depth of devotion and love without changing ur entire character. U can still be a hardass and layered.
I may try another book of this author. It’s KU after all.
To say that fans of April Wilson have been waiting, begging, and longing to indulge in the story of the couple Cooper and Sam of Ruined from the McIntyre Security Bodyguards series is an understatement. April introduced us to these two delicious heroes early on in the series and kept us hanging on with little teases of what these hot blooded, scrumptious men would be like tangled up in love's arms and overcome with desire. I couldn't wait to delve deeper into Cooper and Sam's world and get to know this sexy silver fox and the hot, much younger bodyguard. It wasn't long into their story and I finally felt I understood the gruff and surly Cooper better and fell even more in love with Sam, which I didn't think was possible!
April takes us into Cooper's danger filled and tumultuous past to truly understand why Cooper has been denying his sexuality and devastating his lover Sam in the process. After getting to know this secretive hero more and immersing ourselves deep into both his upbringing and his psyche, I found a compassion for this older, sexy, muscular man and his yearning to be able to come out of the closet and claim his unwavering love for Sam. Cooper has an unrestrained, dominating sexuality that not only calls to Sam but all of April Wilson's fans.
What can I say about this gorgeous man who loves to put his body and emotions to the test for the people he loves. My heart broke for Sam when Cooper shunned him and I just knew that they would get through this eventually and be able to stand up loud and proud in front of everyone and show their love for each other. I felt nothing but admiration for this character who wore his heart on his sleeve and his snarky gay t-shirts with nothing but pride. I adore his friendship with Beth and he brought tears to my eyes at every turn with his heart that is bigger than all of his brawn.
April Wilson delivers a heart melting read about resolving one's past so that you can pursue your future. I highly recommend Ruined for a love story full of passion and desire that no amount of adversity and danger can stop. April is not only known for the heat that she gives us but also the deep, intense story lines that keep us waiting with unconcealed excitement for the next story of greatness that she pens. She hasn't written a book yet that hasn't resonated so deep inside of me that I have no hope of escaping my obsession for her amazing characters and left me with hope for so much more!
This is a m/m book in a m/f series. I didn't read the other books in the series. I was able to keep up without any problems, but there are a lot of "gathering" scenes for followers of the series to catch up with the other couples and set up for future books.
Honestly, I thought this book was boring. I skimmed most of it. The plot that sets it up is flimsy from a security stand point and from random non security common sense.
Cooper, for a new reader who has never been introduced to him before, was overbearing and dismissive as hell in the beginning. He does get better but I didn't really warm up to him that much. Why does it seem like everyone thinks Sam is incapable of protecting himself? I was insulted on his behalf, time and time again.
Anyway, it was okay but again, I was bored. The story telling was basic writing, however, the editing seemed above par.
I am not very much into M/M, I haven’t read a lot of it and am always hesitant to do so, but I loved Sam and Cooper so much in the previous book that I knew I just couldn’t stop myself from reading their book. I loved it ! I loved Sam and his golden retriever energy, he is so easy going and fun that you sometimes forget he is also a badass ex-Ranger and now bodyguard. Cooper was very endearing to me, he grew up in a very different environment and period than Sam and has a hard time coming out even though he loves Sam. When Sam leaves at the end of book 4 Cooper knows he needs to step up if he wants to win Sam back. I loved their story and I wish we got more glimpses or flashbacks into their past and most especially when they started their relationship.
Here’s the thing- I feel like emotionally, this is on point. By the end my emotions were filled with the awwws. I loved this age gap m/m romance that I’ve been waiting for for a while now. I’m a huge fan of Cooper and Sam’s and I was happy to finally get their book. However, I was a little surprised by the way Sam was characterized in this book. In previous books, he’s clearly a kick butt, deadly bodyguard ex-Ranger type (otherwise no way Shane would have trusted him to protect Beth) but here, he’s almost cast like Beth. He’s a tall, strong, athletic, muscular machine of a bodyguard yet all his meals were like grilled chicken breast and a side salad or a small steak and side salad- this annoys me when it is done to heroines and it annoys me here too. It’s like he like small side salads and grilled chicken but lots of chocolate because he’s what.... femme? (Problematic on its own) And that’s the thing, he isn’t characterized as being femme either so it’s a bit strange to me. There was no explanation why he was going to a steakhouse and getting a small steak- was it health related? Was he watching his “figure?” Why didn’t the author want to feed him? I don’t typically read a lot of m/m romance because I feel like a lot of it is written by straight women, which is fine- but I do feel a way about it like I would if a straight man wrote f/f romance- like there could be room for fetishization. (Btw if there are any own voices m/m romance recs please leave me a recommendation). It’s not that I think straight women shouldn’t write m/m romance, I just am sometimes skeptical about some characterizations because of it and find myself questioning whether it is a reflection of fantasy or whether it is real. I don’t know- it’s my quirk. But I did find the characterization of Sam a little odd and disrespectfully minimizing having met him in previous books. (Again something to think deeply about and also related to how heroines are written in books because the main issue is how he was weakened and what does that say about how women are written).
The premise is this is that Cooper is in his mid-50s and deeply closeted and yet deeply in love with Sam, a fun-loving, out, bad “as” bodyguard with whom his two year relationship can best be described as “it’s complicated.” When Sam gives him an ultimatum to man up and stop making their relationship his dirty little secrets, Cooper is forced to face devastating secrets from his past leading to dangerous consequences for everyone.
Overall, I liked this. I think this shown strongest in Cooper and Sam’s chemistry building. There was a lot of heat to this but there was also a lot of heart. This also struggled with the editing issues of continuity and events that happened in the previous chapter not being consistent in the next chapter (e.g. something being 2 miles in one chapter and then the same distance being referred to as 4 miles in the next chapter). But overall, this story was so gosh darn cute and I do love the McIntyre world in which this is set and so no... I’m still on the train if this series.
What a great entry into the McIntyre Security series. I love Sam. He's such a great character. He's Beth's BFF and they are so cute together. He cares so much for her and they have so much fun together even though he's her bodyguard. He's definitely missing that in this book as he recovers. I wanted very much for Sam and Cooper to resolve their issues but that was because it was so important to Sam. You can actually feel his pain and his need for a life with Cooper. And, you have to respect him for standing up for himself and their relationship. Daniel Cooper wasn't really that well defined in previous books. You know about him through his interactions with others. You know that he has feelings for Sam but he can't acknowledge them in front of others which is painful for Sam. In this book we get Cooper's back story. As someone who grew up in the same era that Cooper did, his emotions make sense. When you learn about what happened when he was a teenager, everything about him makes sense. I always love books where one or both of the main characters realize their love for the other is so great that they are willing to make the necessary changes in themselves so they can be together. That's exactly what happened in this story. Honestly, I believe that Cooper became the man he was destined to be because of his love for Sam. Sam and Cooper were beautiful together. I loved everything about this book and Sam and Cooper's story.
The McIntyre Security Team is back and this time we get Sam and Cooper’s story.
Last we knew Sam had gone back to Toledo to recuperate, leaving Cooper behind after he felt rejected.
It’s been months of trying to heal both his body and his heart. Sam still loves Cooper and even though he’s not sure Cooper can give him what he wants, he’s not ready to let go.
It’s time for Sam to come home, get back to his life. He’s missed Beth, Shane and all his friends. And then there’s Cooper. He’s back and working hard to physically get himself ready to get back to work. And him and Copper are trying to figure out their relationship.
These two are just inbelievably in love. They are hot and sweet. I just adored them both and wanted them to get their HEA. But Sam’s not willing to settle. He’s done being a dirty little secret. Either Cooper acknowledges their relationship and doesn’t hide it from family and friends or it’s over.
The months without Sam took their toll on Cooper. He knows what he needs to do. However, in order to be the man Sam deserves, Cooper has to face his past.
These two will learn just how much they need eachother. Their journey to love, acceptance and forever is truly touching and beautiful. I loved this story, catching up with the McIntyre’s and cannot wait for more.
This was my first M/M book and I have to say, I was blown away. I loved Sam and Cooper’s characters from the previous books in the McIntyre Security series. But to have April Wilson bring their characters to life yet again in a love story that left me laughing one minute and then crying the next...it was just magnificently written. I love Cooper and I definitely understood his decision to keep his sexuality a secret, especially coming from a small town in the south in a time when gays were frowned on. This story is sad, tragic and broke my heart more times than I could count. But, in the end...all I can say is I I fell in love with this series starting with Book 1. And I can’t wait to see how Cooper and Sam’s characters continue to come to life in future books. I like how April keeps ALL of the characters stories continuing and playing out throughout each book. That’s important to me. Open your mind to a writer who is talented and can tell a story that will leave you wanting more. The one and only April Wilson.
I have never anticipated a book as much as I did this book. I have also never wanted to read a book so slow in my entire life because I didn’t want it to end. Cooper and Sam have had a long journey, one that we have witnessed since near the beginning of this entire series. Their love to me was never in question it was more of if they could be at the sand place in their lives at the same time. April did not disappoint one bit with their story. She gave us love, drama, a bit of mystery and two amazing characters that were surrounded by a family of amazing characters. I love how everyone was there. I loved how Cooper needed Shane’s help and advice. I loved how we got a glimpse into the steel wall that is Jake. I smiled, I laughed, I had tears and now I want to read it all over again!
I impatiently waited for Ruined so that I could have more of Sam and Cooper. While M/M is not my usual read I was on pins and needles waiting for is release. And let me tell you....IT EXCEEDED ALL EXPECTATIONS!!! It was well written and a beautiful expression of Love between two outstanding characters. Even if M/M is not your thing but aside your preconceptions and give it a shot you will not be disappointed. I loved the dynamic between Sam and Cooper, it was beautiful and the sex scenes were hot and tasteful! In addition I really enjoyed seeing the characters from the 1st 5 books revisited especially Shane and Beth! April Wilson knocked it out of the park yet again. With that being said I can't wait to see what's next with Jake, Erin & Mack, Tyler and Baby McIntyre!
I really liked this book I thought the relationship that gradually gets rebuilt between cooper and Sam was beautiful to witness also the horror that cooper experienced as a teenager was incredibly heartbreaking.
However him going back to sweetwater was super important and truly helps him destroy the walls he built up making his relationship with Sam stronger.
My only downfalls for me were that at times it was quite boring and there’s quite a few mistakes.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
OMFGG April Wilson I love Sam and Cooper even more now lol.
Now where do I start, there's so much I could say because you have really done this book justice. The love story between Sam and Cooper is beautiful and one of my favourite lines in the book is:- The heart wants what it wants!
Sam has been ordered home by Shane as Beth misses her best friend also Cooper is miserable. Sam agrees but will he be able to stay if Cooper hasn’t changed?
Cooper has a score to settle from when he was younger. He promised Sam he will make it right and who else to take with him, muscle in the form of Jake!
Will Cooper get closure back in Sweetwater and declare his love for Sam?
Also Shane announces the name of the baby! Get your tissues ready for this part!!!
I was great to get a brief insight into Jake's life, he really needs his HEA ASAP.
This is my first m\m romance and I have to say April did such an amazing job!!! This whole series is amazing and her writing is phenomenal!! She really brings her characters to life and makes you fall in love with each and every one!!
Sam, I adore him and I'm so glad he got his HEA!! They went through so much to get there and it was such a sweet ending! Now I have to wait impatiently for the next book in this series!! If you haven't read them all you better get to it as you will love them all!!! Happy reading!!
Finally, Cooper and Sam get their HEA! I've been looking forward to this one since Sam was introduced. I was a little disappointed because I was hoping for more of their two-year history before Sam left but overall I really enjoyed it. I thought the author did a great job with her first M\M book. I love this series!
I had been highly anticipating this book for a while now since Sam and Cooper were characters that we had met in the previous books and I had really started to root for them and was dying for their story to be told. I was so excited to finally dive into their story which was indeed worth the wait! Cooper had so much emotional baggage buried in his past that he finally found the courage to overcome and Sam was just this amazing, free, kind and brave soul that brought light into Coopers life and showed him how to be comfortable with who he was. This story definitely gave me all the feels and I can't wait for what what's next!
I have been waiting for this book what feels like forever. What can I say, I love Cooper n Sam so much. You laugh and cry when they laugh n cry. The story is fast paced and I was gutted once I finished it. Finding out about Cooper's past was heart breaking but yet freeing for Cooper and Sam's relationship to grow. Thank you April Wilson you have done it again ..
Really enjoyable story that had heart, a great storyline and sex scenes which were sensual and I felt I could feel the love between Cooper and Sam who together are one of my favourite M and M couple's. Sent me of to sleep with a smile.
You can't help but fall in love with all the characters April writes. This was her first m/m romance, and Cooper and Sam haven't had an easy journey to find a relationship that works for them both. This is a beautiful love story with it's share of laughter and tears, and some suspense thrown in. Looking forward to see where they go from here.
Every one of April's books has earned a 5 star rating from me. This book had me waiting, and wishing, and dreaming. The love story us truly beautidul, and unique. I lobe that all of the previous characters show up, but that Sam and Cooper are the main attraction. Oh Sam I am in love with the attitude, the persona, and the way he is written. Cooper and Sam are a perfect match, and their story is heartbreaking in the beginning, but as April promises HES. My favorite. I can't wait to see how Tyler fares, and if course Erin and Mack.
I’ve loved everyone that I’ve met on this amazing ride so far, but Sam and Cooper have their very own place in my heart. There is just something so very special about them. I’ve loved catching little pieces of their story here and there throughout the McIntyre Security series and finally getting to read their story was nothing short of wonderful. I absolutely adore them and all their beautiful, messy, unwavering love.
Cooper and Sam are 2 of my favorite people in this series! Cooper had his demons, and couldn't claim Sam in front of anyone. I'm so happy they worked it out though. I need more of them!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April Wilson’s newest release, Ruined, is part of her McIntyre Bodyguard Series. In this series each book gets better and better. Ruined is absolute perfection focused on the relationship of Cooped and Sam. I can’t think of a single thing this story could have that would make it better. I laughed and cried over the romance they share and the love of the whole family who supports and surrounds them. Keep the, coming April I love this series!
What a beautiful m/m love story. Leaves you hooked and you can't put it down. You delve into Coopers past and understand him so much more. Lovely to see the McIntyre crew still their showing their support and being the family Sam and Cooper need. April Wilson has done amazingly.
Ok this was my first gay book to read, it was really good. Sam and cooper are so different yet they have so many things in common. I loved the way they were there for each other, they have so much love for each other as well as there friends. I could not put it down, I can not wait till the next one!
April is an amazing writer, she brings the characters to life where you feel like your living the story with them. Sam and Cooper's story will bring smiles to your face and bring tears to your eyes. I recommend the whole series.