Cid: Life is pretty good. My residency at Greenford University suits me, and I have a place of my own. It’s quiet, but quiet never bothered me all that much. When I met Alex, it wasn’t the best first impression. The circumstances weren’t good, but now I was finding it hard not to fall for the guy. And yeah, I knew he had secrets, but I was still willing to give us a try. I didn’t know those secrets would blow my quiet life apart and change everything.
Alex: When my brother was killed, enough was enough. I finally decided to testify against the local gang leaders. Of all the ways I’d pictured my life going, hiding out in a small town under the protection of the federal government wasn’t one of them. I definitely wasn’t expecting Cid. He may be a little strange, but I want to keep him in my new life. I should have known my old life would come crashing back to haunt us both and potentially ruin everything.
Do a quiet but cheerful doctor and an ex-gang member in hiding really stand a chance together? Well, they say opposites attract, but when the past catches up with Alex, will he stay or will he run?
Romeo Alexander lives in Michigan, USA, with his dog and two cats. As a certified night owl, coffee and a wicked sense of humor keep him going most days, as does playing with flavors in the kitchen.
As a proud gay man, Romeo doesn't just write characters—he breathes life into them, infusing them with real-world trials, tribulations, and triumphant love stories. He doesn't just believe in love; he champions it, weaving narratives that prove love's healing power time and again.
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Do a quiet but cheerful doctor and an ex-gang member in hiding really stand a chance together? Well, they say opposites attract, but when the past catches up with Alex, will he stay, or will he run? Cid is a doctor in residency at Greenford University. This story is, as you have probably figured out from the title, is all about secrets. Cid's, and Alex's. Alex is a 29-year-old big, buffed, gay man and the janitor at the school.
Alex's "secret" is that he's in Witness Protection Program waiting to testify against a murderous gang in a nearby city. That's how the secrets in this story are introduced and further explored.
These two guys are perfect for each other. Cid, the product of the foster care system has no family and few loyalties, despite being an active of what some call overactive, carouser of the local gay scene. He's not thinking about or looking for a relationship. Alex finally has an opportunity to come out sexually now that he's away from the gang. His fellow gang members considered being gay an offense punishable by violence, and even death. He had been forced to pursue only women... until now.
Alex and Cid meet by accident as the result of a medical emergency and that becomes the start for a what eventually goes on to the end of the book when a lot of very bad things takes place. Before that happens, however, we get is a sweet and very sexy story of two men who are inseparable while pretending to be completely emotionally detached.
The epilogue is one of the most surprising you might find in a book like this, but it's in keeping with all that precedes it and gives us a fresh start on moving onto the next book in this utterly enticing series.
Romeo as an author does stories so real, characters so mature and real, that sometimes the stories don't work.
This guys were good people, kind people, good to each other, no drama, no issues between them, no misunderstandings, good communication. That's all good, I love when I find characters or relationships like that.
And when this happens, it means that the other tropes need to come out good, there must be a crime that keeps me on my toes, there must be an external situation that the couple must face, something magical, there must BE SOMETHING!!
And that's what's lacking in here... Nothing happens.
Sometimes it works for me with Romeo, sometimes it doesn't. This time it didn't. 🤭🤭❤️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Cid is a breath of fresh air to everyone around him. He is cheerful and optimistic. He is doing his residency at Greenford University and life, in general, is good.
Alex is a former gang member whose brother was killed. Alex agreed to testify against the local gang leaders, which meant that until the trial was over, he would need to be kept in witness protection, hiding out.
Alex and Cid meet, initially not under the best of circumstances, but each of them feel the sizzling chemistry and want to give a relationship a try. Who knew that kidnapping and lots of drama would be coming their way? Should they have waited on that relationship? Or is there still hope that Alex’s secrets don’t make him regret what he started with Cid?
I love this story, maybe even my favourite so far in the series. Cid was delightful and Alex was a beautiful person hidden under a hard exterior. I enjoyed their relationship immensely and was pleased with the ending. Alice, Cid's best friend was funny and I enjoyed the way they bounced off each other. I imagine being unable to tell someone you're interested in the truth about you would be a touch thing, I liked that Alex found it such a hard thing to do around Cid. Another great romance in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Cid, on the cover, is a doctor in residency at Greenford University, setting of the third in this series of happenstance couplings by gifted author Romeo Alexander. This one is all about secrets--not necessarily Cid's, but rather those of Alex, a 29-year-old big, buff, gay and mysterious janitor at the school.
Alex's secret is that he's in Witness Protection awaiting his turn to testify against a murderous gang in a nearby city. And that's how the only secret plaguing this series comes out: the city is Port Dale, scene of two other series by author Alexander ("Men of Port Dale" and "Men of Fort Dale") which are super charged MM romances like this series.
These two guys are perfect for each other--Cid is a product of the foster care system so he has no family or loyalties and despite being an active (some call him overactive) carouser of the local gay scene, he is not looking for a relationship. Alex finally has an opportunity to come out sexually because his fellow gang members in Port Dale considered being gay an offense punishable by violence, even death, so he was forced to "perform" with women until now.
When they meet by accident it's in a medical emergency and that becomes the linchpin for a lot of what eventually goes on toward the end of the book when a lot of very nasty stuff takes place.
Before that, however, this is a sweet, salty and very sexy story of two men who are sexually inseparable but--until bad stuff happens--pretending to be emotionally detached.
The epilogue is one of the most surprising you might find in a book like this, but it's in keeping with all that precedes it and gives us a fresh start on moving onto the next book in this utterly enticing series.
Another quaint story by Romeo Alexander. Alex and Cid meet when Alex experiences a strange reaction to an alcoholic drink. Guided by his instinct that Alex is a good guy, Cid asks him out when they meet in Cid’s clinic the next day. What Cid doesn’t know is that Alex is in Witsec. The two start seeing each other more and things come to a head when Cid walks into a situation that was meant for Alex.
There were a few places where I scratched my head. 1. Although Cid mentions medical school a bunch of times and is clearly working as a medical doctor in a clinic, Alex makes reference to him having a Ph.D. 2. At the end (which you can’t see by looking at the TOC) we learn that Alex’s real name is Rico, but his dead bother is names Rio?!? 3. Ken reads Cid in on Alex’s involvement with a criminal organization very soon after learning that the Marshals were less than diligent in keeping up with the people after Cid. What if Cid was secretly in on the plot to hurt Alex? 4. Then when Ken mentions moving them (Cid and Alex) he talks about having a team nearby. The Marshals, who have run WitSec since 1971 are like any other federal agency with offices around the country, including Maine.
But minus my very tiny issues (mostly because I am a weirdo) this was such a sweet and pleasant read!! You will love Alex and Cid together.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Wow! Another great book! I love that this story is more than just the romance between Alex and Cid! While I don’t love everything that happens with the gang and what they do to Cid and Alex, it adds another element to this story that I thoroughly enjoyed. In addition, I love the way that Alex was up front with Cid about the secrets that he would have to keep and the way that Cid readily accepted and was patient with Alex! The bond that these two shared was everything and I love that even though Alex couldn’t share everything about his past at first that didn’t stop him from opening up about his brother to Cid as their relationship continued to progress. I think that really goes to show how comfortable Alex was with Cid and how much Cid really does remind Alex of the bond that he shared with his brother! Also I love the way that the middle of this book was set up, where we had a tally of how many days Alex and Cid have been together. It was new but I think it also helped to show how quickly their relationship progressed and made me feel how strong their bond was even though it was forming quickly! Overall, I really enjoyed this book and definitely would have loved a longer version, but it was set up perfectly and ended perfectly! With that said I cannot wait to read the next book in this series!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Oh these two are lush Alex has not had a good start, a mother who was addicted to drugs so he takes it upon himself to bring up his younger brother. He got himself mixed up in gangs just to make ends meet and pay the bills and put food on the table but then something happens! it changes everything and now Alex finds him self in witness protection. He is working as a janitor in the University and this is where he meets Cid. Cid is a doctor. And when they meet, the chemistry is off the charts Cid is just a wonderful human being who everyone wants to be friends with. He is positive and excitable he’s just such a lovely man. He knows that Alex is hiding something from him but he would never have guessed he was on the witness protection. Can they have a future together?? Will Alex tell Cid The truth?? There is something so lush about this story about their connection it’s like together they make perfection the banter is so witty and enjoyable and their passion, its hot hot hot. I really enjoyed this book and I was so gutted to come to the end of their story. I am really really enjoyable read I can’t wait to see what Romeo has for us next!!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is the third book in this series but it can be enjoyed completely as a stand alone. This is the story of Alex and Cid. Cid is a doctor who is doing his residency at Greenford University. In spite of his upbringing, he has a bright and sunny disposition and is always willing to help. Alex on the other hand, isn't bright and sunny at all. He is an ex gang member living in Witness Protection. He is going to testify against his old gang that caused the death of his younger brother. He doesn't have any life plans at all except revenge against the gang. If he dies taking them down, that is a price he is willing to pay. After an inauspicious first encounter; they meet again at the University Clinic. This book is really well written. It is engaging and fun. While neither one was looking for the other; sometimes you find what you need when you are no longer looking. Alex has a wall of ice around his heart but Cid has enough warmth to melt it all away. There are some tense and life altering situations that arise. Both Cid and Alex tackle them head on. They really are stronger together. I really enjoyed this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This book is amazing!! A wonderful story, the tale of Alex and Cid is a must read! They meet when Cid is on a night out with his best friend. After they decide to go to a different club, they find Alex on the street, obviously drunk. Cid, a medical student, will rush over to offer assistance and after talking with Alex, he will call for an ambulance, thinking someone might have slipped something into Alex's drink. They will meet up again and Cid will be brave enough to ask for a date. But Alex has secrets he can't tell Cid. The two get along very well and Alex agrees to seeing where things go even though he feels like he's lying to Cid. His life is in danger after he goes to the Feds with information on some pretty bad people. They will catch up with him and Cid will be in danger. But Cid sees something in Alex most people don't and when the time comes for Alex to relocate again, Cid is all in.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
True opposites - coming together under unusual circumstances. Cid is a resident at Greenford University - living his dream, and Alex is a former gang member - living in hiding, sort of.
Alex is under government protection when he meets the man who made him see a possible future. Although, Alex did not make the best of impressions upon meeting Cid, it didn't change the fact these two were incapable of thinking past one another.
Getting on with his life, is all Alex wished to do. He finally felt safe... until his past decided to make an appearance. Sometimes it can feel like you are never really out.
Cid and Alex take a chance on love. The unthinkable happens. Cid is kidnapped.
Not every road to a happy ending is smooth sailing.
**I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.**
WOW! So okay first the Cover! It is the very essence of CID!!! Pictured him vividly the entire book!! The book was actually very descriptive as well! I could also picture our Tall, Muscular Tattooed Alex (Rico) ! So Alex is in witness protection and ends up meeting Doctor Cid outside of a bar after he is drugged.. What a Charming sweetheart our Cid!!! He is super smart with a PHD and working in a local clinic.. but he can be so awkward, clumsy and bumbling with everyday things! Alex is immediately charmed by him and Cid is immediately attracted to Alex! Their chemistry is off the charts! Still given the circumstances they actually date and get to know each before the Steamy Times then ensue! and they are Steamy but still adorable! It is told in both of their POV so you get all the feels! The drama comes in due to Alex being in Witness Protection.. so I do not want to give anymore away!! I Highly recommend this book for those who love a charming awkward guy getting his tough big man!
What a delightful story Secrets was! Cid was finishing up his residency at Greenford University. He had a few friends but generally led a quiet life. All that changed when he met Alex. The circumstances were less than perfect but the man was. Unbeknownst to Cid, Alex was in witness protection. He was to testify against a gang after his brother was killed. He knows he wants more but secrets may keep them apart - secrets that come calling and Alex must make a decision to run or stay.
Cid was a positive, quirky guy while Alex was big and almost always had a scowl. It must be true that opposites attract as these two could not stay away from each other. You cannot help but route for them to have their happy ending. The resolution was perfect and will leave you with a smile that will last long after you finish the book.
Cid is a sunny guy who is doing his residency at Greenford University. He was not expecting living in a small town working as a healer that he would meet Alex, a former gang member hiding out, a witness under the protection while awaiting the opportunity to testify and move on with his life. They connect and Alex likes Cid a lot but realizes that danger is real and he is found, Cid is kidnapped and their love is tested. In the end they are able to stay together in witness protection and a bad guy goes to jail. But this is not your typical love story, which is one of the things that brings me back to this author over and over.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
What goes on in the dark . . . Alex was in witness protection and was trying to cope. Cid is a doctor serving his Residency at the College. They meet under questionable circumstances and move forward from there. Alex is a chill dude with a bit of luggage from his past in Port Dale. Cid, is an absolute refreshing delight! Alex is charmed. Cid is just happy. Will Alex get to testify? Will Cid find out Alex's secret? Will Alex's handler approve of Cid? Will the gang find Alex? Great story. I enjoyed reading the story and I especially enjoyed reading about Alex and Cid. Great story. Well fleshed out characters. Great adventure. Well done! I received an ARC from Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
The story/romance in the Greenford series was real good. Cid and Alex made this a 5 star read. Absolutely loved this pair. Alex's sarcasm and Cid happy go lucky personality made this fun. Alex's secrets kept them from having a "real" relationship but Cid didn't care bout no secrets as long as he had Alex in his life. This was not so angsty that it was sappy but we get a little action due to Alex's secrets. Loved the side characters...they brought plenty of laughs and support to the story. The guys intimacy was beyond HOT and it made their connection that much stronger. I was satisfied with the ending and glad the guys had their HEA. Look forward to more books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review. It was a sweet romance with a hint of danger. Alex was under witness protection and was supposed to be safe. However unknown to everyone he had been found. Their first attempt to get Alex leads to him meeting Cid and they hit it off. Despite the difficulties of keeping secrets, they manage to fall for each other. During a brief time when Alex was wrestling about keeping secrets, Cid is kidnapped. When all is done, one of the main bad guys is in custody and both Alex and Cid are put into witness protection but they are happy to have each other.
This story has it all, clever writing, interesting characters, passion, danger, and intrigue. Alex has a lot of baggage, a dangerous past out to get him, secrets, and a huge heart. Cid is a bumbling, intelligent, lighthearted, adorkable man. The author did an amazing job of creating a deep, genuine connection between two very different men despite Cid knowing Alex had secrets. In this book you will find laughs, cleverly done foreshadowing, tough decisions, violence, great friends, steamy sexy times, sweet, enduring love, and a very satisfying HEA. I would definitely recommend this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This story is an interesting combination of intrigue, romance, and humor— there is definitely some danger, and darkness, but there’s also Cid, the indomitably cheerful and amazing Cid, who brightens up everything around him. I loved him as a character, and the effect he has on Alex— their circumstances aren’t easy and their HEA isn’t exactly conventional, but it fits them, and it’s an exciting read watching them get there. A fun read with memorable characters, and speaking of, I’m kinda / sorta holding out hope that Ken will get a story too…
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
complex situation. 4.5 Good story with unusual characters: Alex, a former criminal who was in the grip of a gang and is now under protection, is saved by a young doctor, Cid. They seem poles apart from each other and yet slowly they discover each other, as bizarre events happen to Alex. The romance meets themes already encountered on man / man relationships, but the part of mystery surrounding the character of Alex, makes it a great romance. I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book
Alex was a janitor at the university where Cid was in the medical center as a resident to be a doctor. Cid and his friend Alice were bar hopping one night and saw Alex fall down, Cid figured that he had been drugged. When Alex got to the hospital doctors told him that the rape date drug was what they found. Then his brake line had been cut and phone stolen by the people he was witnessing against for the FBI and Cid was kidnapped to get to Alex. FBI rescued them and they both were put in witness protection together.
This was an insta love kind of story and I totally enjoyed it. Cid was a super sweet doctor and Alex was a super sexy janitor. I loved their story and the supporting characters, mainly Alice. I loved how the story began and loved how it kept you til the end. Both guys came from different backgrounds and totally different worlds, but was so right for each other. This was a dark world meet light and so worth the read. It had everything from sweetness to drama. Loved it.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This is an interesting, romantic and entertaining. When Cid finds a man in an alley about to throw up, he immediately renders aid. When Alex denies being drunk, Cid calls for an ambulance. Thinking that it was the only time they would see each other,both were shocked when Alex shows up at the clinic Cid works at. Cid asks Alex out, from there a relationship develops, but Alex is hiding a secret, one he thinks will tear them apart. Cid is bold, hyperactive and sweet Alex is tough, caring and honorable. I really liked this couple, they're perfect for each other, and the storyline is interesting
🩺Young doctor 🩺Ex gang member 🩺Mysterious/Sunshine 🩺Secret identity 🩺Danger and kidnapping 🩺I think I'm falling for you
Cid and Alex were such a fun combination Cid is a total sunshine, bright and trusting person. Alex is a thug-like, big tattooed guy, and even though he needs to hide part of his life, he is himself with Cid and doesn't lie to him about having secrets. He's definitely more cautious and holds back, but it's understandable.
Together they were sexy, funny and sweet. The last part was thrilling and fun.
A good story with unique characters, a sweet romance, and an underlying feeling of danger. I especially loved Cid’s character: he’s quirky, upbeat, and has a beautiful soul. Despite the secrets Alex has to keep, along with the ever-present danger that comes from being with him, Alex and Cid still find a way to fall for each other. There is a decent amount of drama, a dash of angst, and a lovely HEA. A solid read!
Man, this was a pretty good story. FBI, gangs, doctors, death, action, drama, sexy times along with a few more things. Man testifies against a gang now in protective custody, falls for a doctor. What else could happen, right? Well, there is a kidnapping along with more death attempts. With all the bad stuff going around, can these two guys have a HEA?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Some pretty exciting stuff going on here. Cid, pretty easy going and happy doing his internship meets Alex aka Rico. Lots of information I’ll leave to the reader to find out but suffice it to say it’s worth the read. Their story is exciting, sweet and action packed. Through it all you grow to care about the characters and their happiness so when they get their HEA it’s delightful.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A romance chocked full of drama, now that is a good intro to any story! Cid is a resident doctor at the campus and Alex is a janitor that mops a lot of floors. Love knows no difference in class and standings. Alex has secrets that could cause harm so he has to watch his step. Things get complicated but their love for each other is real and will have to endure some pretty serious test. Nope I am not giving it away so get your own copy and start reading today!
Another must-read. I've enjoyed most of this author's works, but the Greenford series really is special. Cid and Alex have a great developed relationship. Romeo is set on relationships being organic, and IT'S PERFECT. He's right that these stories are so much better because of realistic the characters are. You can connect with them as individuals and still find them endearing.