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Auctioned
The Job
Family | Crime | Humor | Suspense | Standalone
With the help of their ball-busting daughter, some questionable morals, and an important job to get done, Casey and Boone will steal you away to the grit and glitz of Las Vegas in this fast-paced romance.
I’m not supposed to do this job without Boone.
We may not share genes, but it’s been us against the world since his mom took me in as a toddler. The rowdy O’Sullivan boys who raised all the hell that Vegas could handle. Not that all my memories are wild and make my heart race. After all, I realized I was in love with the bastard at some point, so there’s been plenty of pathetic yearning and jealousy too.
Even so, it’s been him and me. Brothers, partners in crime, and, for the past six years, co-parents to an amazing little girl. But that’s another story. Right now, I gotta focus on the job our cousin gave us, and I need Boone by my side.
The problem is we haven’t really been on speaking terms for four years now.
This story takes place in Cara Dee’s Camassia Cove Universe, a fictional town where all books stand on their own, unless otherwise stated, and the reader can jump in wherever they want.
With the help of their ball-busting daughter, some questionable morals, and an important job to get done, Casey and Boone will steal you away to the grit and glitz of Las Vegas in this fast-paced romance.
I’m not supposed to do this job without Boone.
We may not share genes, but it’s been us against the world since his mom took me in as a toddler. The rowdy O’Sullivan boys who raised all the hell that Vegas could handle. Not that all my memories are wild and make my heart race. After all, I realized I was in love with the bastard at some point, so there’s been plenty of pathetic yearning and jealousy too.
Even so, it’s been him and me. Brothers, partners in crime, and, for the past six years, co-parents to an amazing little girl. But that’s another story. Right now, I gotta focus on the job our cousin gave us, and I need Boone by my side.
The problem is we haven’t really been on speaking terms for four years now.
This story takes place in Cara Dee’s Camassia Cove Universe, a fictional town where all books stand on their own, unless otherwise stated, and the reader can jump in wherever they want.
246 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 7, 2021
153 people are currently reading
1574 people want to read
About the author
Cara Dee
97 books4,083 followers
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
I'm often stoically silent or, if the topic interests me, a chronic rambler. In other words, I can discuss writing forever and ever. Fiction, in particular. The love story—while a huge draw and constantly present—is secondary for me, because there's so much more to writing romance fiction than just making two (or more) people fall in love and have hot sex. There's a world to build, characters to develop, interests to create, and a topic or two to research thoroughly. Every book is a challenge for me, an opportunity to learn something new, and a puzzle to piece together. I want my characters to come to life, and the only way I know to do that is to give them substance—passions, history, goals, quirks, and strong opinions—and to let them evolve. Additionally, I want my men and women to be relatable. That means allowing room for everyday problems and, for lack of a better word, flaws. My characters will never be perfect.
Wait…this was supposed to be about me, not my writing.
I'm a writey person who loves to write. Always wanderlusting, twitterpating, kinking, and geeking. There's time for hockey and cupcakes, too. But mostly, I just love to write.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 215 reviews
March 2, 2023
4 “I don’t know what to do when close isn’t close enough” stars
“I need your help with something.” [...] “Maybe you can figure this out.” [...] “I can’t stop thinking about you. Everything you do turns me on or makes me wanna kiss the daylights outta you. I can no longer imagine spending a night without you next to me. I want a future with you—a house, road trips, camping in the desert, fuckin’ bake sales, and soccer games.” [...] “I constantly wanna get my arms around you,” [...] “When you laugh, it automatically makes me feel better.” [...] “So you tell me, Case,” [...] “Think I’m in love?”
I really love Cara Dee but most of the time when I read one of her book, I always feel like I wanted more and this was the case here too. I would have liked to see our main characters spend more time together, I loved what we got, but I really wanted to see more of it. I had some issues with this book but the ending fixed it all for me. I never realized that I was getting close to the end of the book before I read the word epilogue. There was no big drama or break up at 80% so I never realized I was close to the end, and that made the book for me.
I’m in university and in the middle of finals and I stayed up until 3 in the morning to finish this book, so that should probably tell you how much I enjoyed it, but i’ll still try to put words on it.
Also I feel like I should mentioned that I haven’t read the Auctioned books because I cry at everything and I know they would hurt me too much and I like to do some self-preservation, sometimes, but I didn’t feel like I was missing out on this book because I didn’t read those books, even if some of the characters in the Auctioned series showed up here.
Brief summary: Boone and Casey (AKA Case) are brothers (as in Boone’s mom adopted Case when they were really young and they grew up together) and the co-parent a 8 years old girl, Ace, together. They had a massive falling out 4 years ago and they don’t talk to each other anymore. The book starts with them hating the other and then their cousin asks them to do a job for him and then they get together as a couple.
What I loved:
First, I really loved the characters. I liked how they both weren’t very nice or very law-abiding, I felt like it felt very nicely with their personalities. I really loved Boone and how he was one of those strong silent type but also very grumpy, those are my favourite type of characters and damn was he a good one. I loved how Case was way happy than Boone but also a damn strong character. I loved how they were both flawed characters and how it was shown that sometimes they would do hurtful things, they both felt so realistic. I loved how they were always there for the others and trying to give them what they want. They had such a good dynamic and their personalities matched so well together, I liked how the book showed that they worked much better together because they compliment each other perfectly. I like how they both had their own things that they’re better at than the other and that together they’re the perfect package. Damn did I loved how possessive of the other these two were, it just worked so well here. Also their banter was just so good. Special mention to both of them having lots of tattoos and lets of very sentimental to them tattoos, I really loved reading about those, they were a nice touch.
Second, I really enjoyed how vivid the settings were. I have never been to Vegas but everything was described so nicely that I felt like I was actually in Vegas running around and exploring the city.
Third, the relationship progression was so good in this book. I liked how they went from hating each other to a tentative friendship to starting to be lovers to being in love. The transition between the different phases was done very smoothly, everything worked and made sense. I also liked the fact that no matter how mad at the other they were at the start, you still could feel their love for the other, that was so well done. I also loved how they had to work and talk to each other to fix things and make their relationship work. I really liked how it wasn’t all easy, they didn’t just fall into a relationship, they both had doubts and had to figure things out, all of it was just so realistic.
Fourth, the suspence plot had a pretty big part in this book and I really enjoyed it. It was easy to follow and it never felt like it took away from the relationship.
Fifth, most of the time in stories where someone has been in love with the other for ages, it always feels way too one sided for me but it wasn’t the case here, you could see that they both had been pining for the other for ages and I really enjoyed that, I could truly feel how they both wanted the other and it never felt one sided.
Sixth, I really liked how they actually had a conversation about their falling out and how they worked on fixing their past hurt, it was lovely to see.
Seventh, there was some really hot descriptions in this. I adored the descriptions of the kissing scenes, those were so damn good. And the sex scenes were really hot too and there was some really nice dirty talk. Massive bonus points to them calling each other brother in bed, I loved that.
Eight, I loved Ace. She was so fierce and so lovely. I loved how she actually felt like her age and not much older, she felt a little too bright for her age sometimes but then, right after, she would do something silly and that only someone who’s her age would, so it really worked for me. I just absolutely adored her, she was just a good child and was the perfect daughter for them. I also loved how they parented her, they were really good with her and they made sure to never let their fights have bad effects on her and I absolutely loved that. These three were such a perfectly little family.
Ninth, I absolutely adored the epilogue, it was so perfect and tied everything together perfectly.
My small niggles
First, this was mostly written in Case’s point of view and we only got to see a couple of sentences of what Boone’s thought in each other and I really would have loved to see more of Boone’s thoughts. He thought he was straight before he fell in love with Case so I really would have loved to be his head to see his sexual exploration and how he came to terms with all of it.
Second, I really wanted to see more of them getting together and exploring each other. I loved what we got but I wanted more. There was a lot of their first times in bed that we didn’t get to see and I really felt like they were missing, I think getting to see those moments would have made their connection seem even stronger. Also, I feel like the transition from exploring to established couple was a bit fast and I would have liked a bit more of how they became a couple.
Third, the humour was lovely in this and I absolutely adored their banter, I love a good banter, so much. But there was a couple of jokes that I found questionnable and it might be because English is not my first language and I didn’t understand them correctly but still, some of the jokes rubbed me the wrong way.
Overall I had such a good time reading this and I enjoyed it very much.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
“I need your help with something.” [...] “Maybe you can figure this out.” [...] “I can’t stop thinking about you. Everything you do turns me on or makes me wanna kiss the daylights outta you. I can no longer imagine spending a night without you next to me. I want a future with you—a house, road trips, camping in the desert, fuckin’ bake sales, and soccer games.” [...] “I constantly wanna get my arms around you,” [...] “When you laugh, it automatically makes me feel better.” [...] “So you tell me, Case,” [...] “Think I’m in love?”
I really love Cara Dee but most of the time when I read one of her book, I always feel like I wanted more and this was the case here too. I would have liked to see our main characters spend more time together, I loved what we got, but I really wanted to see more of it. I had some issues with this book but the ending fixed it all for me. I never realized that I was getting close to the end of the book before I read the word epilogue. There was no big drama or break up at 80% so I never realized I was close to the end, and that made the book for me.
I’m in university and in the middle of finals and I stayed up until 3 in the morning to finish this book, so that should probably tell you how much I enjoyed it, but i’ll still try to put words on it.
Also I feel like I should mentioned that I haven’t read the Auctioned books because I cry at everything and I know they would hurt me too much and I like to do some self-preservation, sometimes, but I didn’t feel like I was missing out on this book because I didn’t read those books, even if some of the characters in the Auctioned series showed up here.
Brief summary: Boone and Casey (AKA Case) are brothers (as in Boone’s mom adopted Case when they were really young and they grew up together) and the co-parent a 8 years old girl, Ace, together. They had a massive falling out 4 years ago and they don’t talk to each other anymore. The book starts with them hating the other and then their cousin asks them to do a job for him and then they get together as a couple.
What I loved:
First, I really loved the characters. I liked how they both weren’t very nice or very law-abiding, I felt like it felt very nicely with their personalities. I really loved Boone and how he was one of those strong silent type but also very grumpy, those are my favourite type of characters and damn was he a good one. I loved how Case was way happy than Boone but also a damn strong character. I loved how they were both flawed characters and how it was shown that sometimes they would do hurtful things, they both felt so realistic. I loved how they were always there for the others and trying to give them what they want. They had such a good dynamic and their personalities matched so well together, I liked how the book showed that they worked much better together because they compliment each other perfectly. I like how they both had their own things that they’re better at than the other and that together they’re the perfect package. Damn did I loved how possessive of the other these two were, it just worked so well here. Also their banter was just so good. Special mention to both of them having lots of tattoos and lets of very sentimental to them tattoos, I really loved reading about those, they were a nice touch.
Second, I really enjoyed how vivid the settings were. I have never been to Vegas but everything was described so nicely that I felt like I was actually in Vegas running around and exploring the city.
Third, the relationship progression was so good in this book. I liked how they went from hating each other to a tentative friendship to starting to be lovers to being in love. The transition between the different phases was done very smoothly, everything worked and made sense. I also liked the fact that no matter how mad at the other they were at the start, you still could feel their love for the other, that was so well done. I also loved how they had to work and talk to each other to fix things and make their relationship work. I really liked how it wasn’t all easy, they didn’t just fall into a relationship, they both had doubts and had to figure things out, all of it was just so realistic.
Fourth, the suspence plot had a pretty big part in this book and I really enjoyed it. It was easy to follow and it never felt like it took away from the relationship.
Fifth, most of the time in stories where someone has been in love with the other for ages, it always feels way too one sided for me but it wasn’t the case here, you could see that they both had been pining for the other for ages and I really enjoyed that, I could truly feel how they both wanted the other and it never felt one sided.
Sixth, I really liked how they actually had a conversation about their falling out and how they worked on fixing their past hurt, it was lovely to see.
Seventh, there was some really hot descriptions in this. I adored the descriptions of the kissing scenes, those were so damn good. And the sex scenes were really hot too and there was some really nice dirty talk. Massive bonus points to them calling each other brother in bed, I loved that.
Eight, I loved Ace. She was so fierce and so lovely. I loved how she actually felt like her age and not much older, she felt a little too bright for her age sometimes but then, right after, she would do something silly and that only someone who’s her age would, so it really worked for me. I just absolutely adored her, she was just a good child and was the perfect daughter for them. I also loved how they parented her, they were really good with her and they made sure to never let their fights have bad effects on her and I absolutely loved that. These three were such a perfectly little family.
Ninth, I absolutely adored the epilogue, it was so perfect and tied everything together perfectly.
My small niggles
First, this was mostly written in Case’s point of view and we only got to see a couple of sentences of what Boone’s thought in each other and I really would have loved to see more of Boone’s thoughts. He thought he was straight before he fell in love with Case so I really would have loved to be his head to see his sexual exploration and how he came to terms with all of it.
Second, I really wanted to see more of them getting together and exploring each other. I loved what we got but I wanted more. There was a lot of their first times in bed that we didn’t get to see and I really felt like they were missing, I think getting to see those moments would have made their connection seem even stronger. Also, I feel like the transition from exploring to established couple was a bit fast and I would have liked a bit more of how they became a couple.
Third, the humour was lovely in this and I absolutely adored their banter, I love a good banter, so much. But there was a couple of jokes that I found questionnable and it might be because English is not my first language and I didn’t understand them correctly but still, some of the jokes rubbed me the wrong way.
Overall I had such a good time reading this and I enjoyed it very much.
I received an ARC of this book, and this is my honest review.
June 2, 2021
I have not read the Auctioned series but enjoyed The Job as a standalone.
Case and Boone are not upstanding white-collar citizens. They like to get their hands dirty and aren't much for rules and regulations. They drink. They smoke. They steal (but only from the bad guys).
Raised as brothers (Boone's biological mom adopted Case), the two were inseparable until four years prior when Case decided he'd had enough ... enough of seeing Boone make out with women, enough of the pain and heartbreak that comes with a decade-long unrequited crush on your older brother, enough of the unfettered jealousy he felt every time Boone looked at someone other than him.
So Case walked away and has harbored resentment (unfairly so, I think) toward Boone ever since.
Enter The Job.
Forced into proximity during a weeks-long stakeout, among other things, Boone and Case reconnect, and Case admits why he's been keeping Boone at arm's length.
The story is narrated mostly by Case, but thankfully we get a few snippets of Boone's POV at the beginning of each chapter. Boone is much softer than Case, and I liked seeing his perspective.
This isn't a bisexual awakening story; nor is it a GFY story. It's more like an "I exist only for you" story. Boone cannot survive without Case. He craves Case's smile, his touch, and has felt sexual attraction toward Case for a long time. Their coming together is sexy AF.
Ace, Boone and Case's daughter, is a riot. Orthodox parents they are not, but Boone and Case love their kid something fierce, and Ace speaks (hilariously) like a world-weary 30-year-old criminal.
While the suspense plot itself didn't do much for me (I'm sure it would have been more meaningful had I read the Auctioned series), I liked the MCs, their arguments & banter (Cara Dee writes fantastic dialogue), and Ma (god, I don't know how that woman hasn't killed those two yet).
I'm not sure how I feel about the men calling each other "brother" while fucking, but, hey, who am I to judge?
To quote Boone, I burned "the midnight owl" 🤣 to finish this book.
Case and Boone are not upstanding white-collar citizens. They like to get their hands dirty and aren't much for rules and regulations. They drink. They smoke. They steal (but only from the bad guys).
Raised as brothers (Boone's biological mom adopted Case), the two were inseparable until four years prior when Case decided he'd had enough ... enough of seeing Boone make out with women, enough of the pain and heartbreak that comes with a decade-long unrequited crush on your older brother, enough of the unfettered jealousy he felt every time Boone looked at someone other than him.
So Case walked away and has harbored resentment (unfairly so, I think) toward Boone ever since.
Enter The Job.
Forced into proximity during a weeks-long stakeout, among other things, Boone and Case reconnect, and Case admits why he's been keeping Boone at arm's length.
The story is narrated mostly by Case, but thankfully we get a few snippets of Boone's POV at the beginning of each chapter. Boone is much softer than Case, and I liked seeing his perspective.
This isn't a bisexual awakening story; nor is it a GFY story. It's more like an "I exist only for you" story. Boone cannot survive without Case. He craves Case's smile, his touch, and has felt sexual attraction toward Case for a long time. Their coming together is sexy AF.
Ace, Boone and Case's daughter, is a riot. Orthodox parents they are not, but Boone and Case love their kid something fierce, and Ace speaks (hilariously) like a world-weary 30-year-old criminal.
While the suspense plot itself didn't do much for me (I'm sure it would have been more meaningful had I read the Auctioned series), I liked the MCs, their arguments & banter (Cara Dee writes fantastic dialogue), and Ma (god, I don't know how that woman hasn't killed those two yet).
I'm not sure how I feel about the men calling each other "brother" while fucking, but, hey, who am I to judge?
To quote Boone, I burned "the midnight owl" 🤣 to finish this book.
May 8, 2021
I enjoyed this a lot! More than some of my friends did, but that's ok.
The Job has several things I love in a story:
Moral ambiguity - ✔️
Second chances - ✔️
Sexual discovery- ✔️
Adoptive brothers - ✔️
Smexy smex - ✔️
Happy ending - ✔️✔️✔️
I even liked Ace, and I don't often like kids in my stories. She was such a smart ass, though, I couldn't help but like her. I think she's smarter than her dads and the world needs to watch out once she's a bit older. She's much like a tiny adult, which given the lifestyle her dads are raising her in, is not at all surprising. She's a manipulative little imp, too.
The story is told from Case's POV, but we do get a short POV from Boone at the beginning of each chapter. Snippets, really, both flash backs and present. I do wish we would have gotten more of his POV, though, because he's softer and sweeter than Case and I would have loved to be in his head a bit more, to really grasp his coming to terms with having feelings for Case that go beyond brotherly.
For those that are wondering how well The Job stands alone, neither Case nor Boone have appeared in any other Cara Dee book (but they were mentioned in one of her newsletter outtakes that takes place after book 3 of Auctioned). The Job IS a standalone.
I don't think you'll need to read the other Auctioned books, first, even though Darius does show up and a couple other Camassia characters are mentioned and one has a minor role and works behind the scenes (Willow). Darius only has a minor role, here, too.
The plot does tie into the main Auctioned books, but even Case and Boone are not given the specifics. Unless you're staying away from the Auctioned series because of its subject matter or because it's not all out yet, you could definitely pick it up after reading this one and even if you don't ever read Auctioned , you can still read this one completely on its own.
I'm looking forward to seeing more of these guys in the next Auctioned books.
The Job has several things I love in a story:
Moral ambiguity - ✔️
Second chances - ✔️
Sexual discovery- ✔️
Adoptive brothers - ✔️
Smexy smex - ✔️
Happy ending - ✔️✔️✔️
I even liked Ace, and I don't often like kids in my stories. She was such a smart ass, though, I couldn't help but like her. I think she's smarter than her dads and the world needs to watch out once she's a bit older. She's much like a tiny adult, which given the lifestyle her dads are raising her in, is not at all surprising. She's a manipulative little imp, too.
The story is told from Case's POV, but we do get a short POV from Boone at the beginning of each chapter. Snippets, really, both flash backs and present. I do wish we would have gotten more of his POV, though, because he's softer and sweeter than Case and I would have loved to be in his head a bit more, to really grasp his coming to terms with having feelings for Case that go beyond brotherly.
For those that are wondering how well The Job stands alone, neither Case nor Boone have appeared in any other Cara Dee book (but they were mentioned in one of her newsletter outtakes that takes place after book 3 of Auctioned). The Job IS a standalone.
I don't think you'll need to read the other Auctioned books, first, even though Darius does show up and a couple other Camassia characters are mentioned and one has a minor role and works behind the scenes (Willow). Darius only has a minor role, here, too.
The plot does tie into the main Auctioned books, but even Case and Boone are not given the specifics. Unless you're staying away from the Auctioned series because of its subject matter or because it's not all out yet, you could definitely pick it up after reading this one and even if you don't ever read Auctioned , you can still read this one completely on its own.
I'm looking forward to seeing more of these guys in the next Auctioned books.
April 28, 2021
Let me start by saying that I absolutely LOVE Cara Dee. She's one of my 1-click authors. Taboo and taboo-ish relationships are my catnip so I was STOKED for this.
What I loved:
- The grey characters both MCs were.
- The way they behaved and talked.. it was very down to earth and organic.
- They communicated well. in their job and out of it.
- They were both great dads and devoted to their daughter.
- Boone's POV in the beginning of the chapters were engaging and sweet... if a bit too brief.
Niggles:
- I didn't like how their daughter was portrayed. I know it was for the sake of reality... she has gray parents and kind of grew up in questionable situations... but then describing a preteen as a shoplifter and stuff...kinda rubbed me the wrong way. the way she cussed and spoke as well.
- Boone's sexuality was not properly addressed.. we need more details of how he came to this conclusion.. that he was gay/bi we needed to be in his mind more than the snippets in the beginning of the chapters.
- Their situation as pseudo-brothers was also kind of swept under the rug. everyone took it in stride which frankly doesn't really happen. This is fiction YES, but it has to be a bit believable ... From their mom to Darius, their cousin, to their daughter... It was wrapped up superficially.
- The mood of the book was kind of sterile.. I cant put my finger on it. Even their love scenes were a bit on the cold side. Like they were going through the motions...
This is my least favorite of Car's books tbh... and I was bummed.
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
What I loved:
- The grey characters both MCs were.
- The way they behaved and talked.. it was very down to earth and organic.
- They communicated well. in their job and out of it.
- They were both great dads and devoted to their daughter.
- Boone's POV in the beginning of the chapters were engaging and sweet... if a bit too brief.
Niggles:
- I didn't like how their daughter was portrayed. I know it was for the sake of reality... she has gray parents and kind of grew up in questionable situations... but then describing a preteen as a shoplifter and stuff...kinda rubbed me the wrong way. the way she cussed and spoke as well.
- Boone's sexuality was not properly addressed.. we need more details of how he came to this conclusion.. that he was gay/bi we needed to be in his mind more than the snippets in the beginning of the chapters.
- Their situation as pseudo-brothers was also kind of swept under the rug. everyone took it in stride which frankly doesn't really happen. This is fiction YES, but it has to be a bit believable ... From their mom to Darius, their cousin, to their daughter... It was wrapped up superficially.
- The mood of the book was kind of sterile.. I cant put my finger on it. Even their love scenes were a bit on the cold side. Like they were going through the motions...
This is my least favorite of Car's books tbh... and I was bummed.
I received an ARC from GRR and this is my honest review.
August 25, 2022
Fab, fab, fab!
***
There is something about the way Cara Dee's storytelling which just works for me.
This Camassia Cove sort of spin off focuses on two of Darius Quinn's cousins Boone and Casey, and oh boy are they trouble!
I'm not going into this plotline, it fits in between books three (published) and four (not out yet) of the Auctioned series and is loosely tied to what happens there.
However, you don't need to read that series, although you really should as they are superb, to understand and enjoy this one.
Firstly, I'm absolutely in love with Ace, the adorable and mature beyond her years kid who Boone and Case have ended up raising after her mum died.
Her quick wit and willingness to join her dads on some of their slightly dodgy scouting missions is hilarious.
The relationship between the two men is complex, emotional, steaming hot and powerfully satisfying, even as it barrels through jealousy and plain old fashioned sulking.
It was cool to see behind the scenes for some of what happened in the Auctioned series and I loved catching up with Darius and Gray.
This whole book was an absolute delight from start to finish, it's surprisingly drama free and not really angsty, just a great read.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
***
There is something about the way Cara Dee's storytelling which just works for me.
This Camassia Cove sort of spin off focuses on two of Darius Quinn's cousins Boone and Casey, and oh boy are they trouble!
I'm not going into this plotline, it fits in between books three (published) and four (not out yet) of the Auctioned series and is loosely tied to what happens there.
However, you don't need to read that series, although you really should as they are superb, to understand and enjoy this one.
Firstly, I'm absolutely in love with Ace, the adorable and mature beyond her years kid who Boone and Case have ended up raising after her mum died.
Her quick wit and willingness to join her dads on some of their slightly dodgy scouting missions is hilarious.
The relationship between the two men is complex, emotional, steaming hot and powerfully satisfying, even as it barrels through jealousy and plain old fashioned sulking.
It was cool to see behind the scenes for some of what happened in the Auctioned series and I loved catching up with Darius and Gray.
This whole book was an absolute delight from start to finish, it's surprisingly drama free and not really angsty, just a great read.
#ARC kindly received from the author in return for an honest and unbiased review.
May 14, 2021
This didn't feel like a Cara See book, not my favourite by the author.
July 12, 2021
3.3 ⭐
Four years ago, Case walked away from his brother Boone (is adopted) because he couldn't keep seeing him with women and pretend it didn't hurt. He cut ties with him and decided to bury his feelings. But Darius, his cousin, has a job for both of them. And they have to spend many hours together. And this time they can't ignore their feelings.
"I can’t stop thinking about you. Everything you do turns me on or makes me wanna kiss the daylights outta you. I can no longer imagine spending a night without you next to me. I want a future with you—a house, road trips, camping in the desert, fuckin’ bake sales, and soccer games.”
At first (about 40%) the story was not capturing my attention as I expected.
But after that, I enjoyed the banter between these two, and when they decide to be together, it was quite funny and adorable. Also the possessiveness worked well.
"I need you to be as obsessed as I am.” “Baby, I’ll fucking suffocate you if that’s what you want. You’ve owned me since we were kids.”
Also, the communication to solve things is good. The honesty surprised me and the family times were enjoyable and it was fun reading Ace and Ma.
Seeing Darius was great, I really missed him and can't wait to read him again.
I felt like the stepcest was... Not so good.
The book begins with Case having already accepted his feelings for years and for Boone his struggle is not so hard as I thought it would be. The story is told from Case's POV, we only see some thoughts of Boone at the beginning of the chapters and I wanted more. Realize that all this time you were in love with a man and that is the brother you were raised with? Yes. I wanted those thoughts.
And the part of revelation to their relatives about being together, well, is zero conflict. The drama is minimal and it is only the shock of the moment. So there is not much "danger" to be discovered because in the end everyone reacts in a superficial way.
The sex scenes were hot. 🥵🥵
"This is what I’ve wanted for most of my adult life.” (...) I ran my fingertips over his cock. He cursed and shivered violently. His cock was just like the rest of him, big and perfect, soft to the touch, rock hard underneath.
“God, that feels good,” he exhaled.
“Let me swallow your cock, big brother,” I whispered.
But it's Boone's first time with a man, and while the scene was hot, there was no preparation for him. I can understand that they both like it rough, but come on, not even a finger and his first time? That had to hurt. 🤷♀️
Ace is their daughter, a friend chose them to raise her. The girl participates in some parts of the Job (which one is dangerous), and that I have seen that can make many uncomfortable. I don't think I had read something similar in a book and although it is only fiction, it seemed new and weird to me. 🤷♀️
But that girl is smart, wise and knows how to get what she wants for her age. She is really cool if I'm honest. I couldn't help but think, that girl is going to be Angelina Jolie in Salt when she grows up.
I liked it, it's not my favorite by Cara, but it has enjoyable moments. 🤗
Four years ago, Case walked away from his brother Boone (is adopted) because he couldn't keep seeing him with women and pretend it didn't hurt. He cut ties with him and decided to bury his feelings. But Darius, his cousin, has a job for both of them. And they have to spend many hours together. And this time they can't ignore their feelings.
"I can’t stop thinking about you. Everything you do turns me on or makes me wanna kiss the daylights outta you. I can no longer imagine spending a night without you next to me. I want a future with you—a house, road trips, camping in the desert, fuckin’ bake sales, and soccer games.”
At first (about 40%) the story was not capturing my attention as I expected.
But after that, I enjoyed the banter between these two, and when they decide to be together, it was quite funny and adorable. Also the possessiveness worked well.
"I need you to be as obsessed as I am.” “Baby, I’ll fucking suffocate you if that’s what you want. You’ve owned me since we were kids.”
Also, the communication to solve things is good. The honesty surprised me and the family times were enjoyable and it was fun reading Ace and Ma.
Seeing Darius was great, I really missed him and can't wait to read him again.
I felt like the stepcest was... Not so good.
The book begins with Case having already accepted his feelings for years and for Boone his struggle is not so hard as I thought it would be. The story is told from Case's POV, we only see some thoughts of Boone at the beginning of the chapters and I wanted more. Realize that all this time you were in love with a man and that is the brother you were raised with? Yes. I wanted those thoughts.
And the part of revelation to their relatives about being together, well, is zero conflict. The drama is minimal and it is only the shock of the moment. So there is not much "danger" to be discovered because in the end everyone reacts in a superficial way.
The sex scenes were hot. 🥵🥵
"This is what I’ve wanted for most of my adult life.” (...) I ran my fingertips over his cock. He cursed and shivered violently. His cock was just like the rest of him, big and perfect, soft to the touch, rock hard underneath.
“God, that feels good,” he exhaled.
“Let me swallow your cock, big brother,” I whispered.
But it's Boone's first time with a man, and while the scene was hot, there was no preparation for him. I can understand that they both like it rough, but come on, not even a finger and his first time? That had to hurt. 🤷♀️
Ace is their daughter, a friend chose them to raise her. The girl participates in some parts of the Job (which one is dangerous), and that I have seen that can make many uncomfortable. I don't think I had read something similar in a book and although it is only fiction, it seemed new and weird to me. 🤷♀️
But that girl is smart, wise and knows how to get what she wants for her age. She is really cool if I'm honest. I couldn't help but think, that girl is going to be Angelina Jolie in Salt when she grows up.
I liked it, it's not my favorite by Cara, but it has enjoyable moments. 🤗
May 7, 2021
3.5 stars
I loved their love story, just had a hard time reconciling that with the fact that they were thieves, raising their daughter the same way. As a parent, it pushed some buttons.
Still a good story.
I loved their love story, just had a hard time reconciling that with the fact that they were thieves, raising their daughter the same way. As a parent, it pushed some buttons.
Still a good story.
December 25, 2021
* 4 stars *
From the first mention I saw about this book I was excited to read it. The teasers had me curious and I couldn't figure out what the relationship between Case and Boone was - if they were related, how they ended up having a daughter together, if they had ever been together as a couple. I had so many questions and I couldn't wait to find out the answers.
Cara Dee, once again, did an amazing job with this story. It's kind of a spin off of her "Auctioned" series and it's set between the third and fourth books. Case and Boone are Darius's cousins who live in Las Vegas and are toeing the line with what's legal and what's not - okay, that's a lie, they totally cross it all the time, but they try to be smart and careful about it.
If you expect stand up characters, great father figures and conventional families, you'll be disappointed. If, on the other hand, want to read about bad boys breaking all kinds of laws, two brothers and best friends raising a little girl to follow in their footsteps and a mother that loves her kids trully unconditionally, then you're in the right place!
A little bit about the story:
Case and Boone aren't related by blood but they grew up together, in the same house and calling the same woman "mom". They are raising Ace together, but they aren't related to her by blood either. Both of them are her dads, but they've never been a couple.
Sounds complex, right?
In reality, it was awesome! Learning about their past and how they reached the point they were in at the beginning of the book. Learning about their connection and their feelings. Seeing them putting their relationship back together.
The story starts when Boone is at a very low point in his life. He's ready to snap. Case seems like he has everything together, but in reality he's just as much lost. They haven't been on speaking terms for four years and it's taking its toll on them. They grew up together, being brothers, best friends and co-workers at the same time. They were each other's most important person and suddenly everything stopped.
This job came at the perfect moment to bring them back together. They had a lot of things from the past to talk about, especially the big secret that tere was between them and that was the reason for their falling out.
I loved reading about Case and Boone finding their way back to each other. Their scenes together were great, their interactions filled with laughter and competitiveness. They were grumpy and funny and their banter was perfect. Their scenes with Ace were something else. The way they chose to raise her was definitely unvonventional, they treated her as an adult, always telling her the truth and including her as much as they could in their conversations and even in their work, when they could. They weren't careful about cursing in front of her and they didn't forbid her from doing it either. Actually, there's one instance were Ace decided to paraphrase a curse word and Case's reaction was to be alarmed and worried about why that happened. She was fierce and pretty independent. I don't know how the way they chose to raise her is going to play out once she reaches puberty, but I hope everything will be fine.
This book is a lot lighter than the Auctioned series, it's full of funny moments, banter and laughter. Of course, there are also serious scenes, but there's always a funny comment or action to lighten the mood. I had fun while reading it and I laughted a lot. The epilogue was sweet and perfect. I'm happy that this family figured everything out and I liked what their future seemed to look like.
Case and Boone were great together, I don't think either of them could be happy with anyone else. It took them a lot of years to get it right, but they deserve their HEA. I hope they'll make some cameo's in future books, their energy is refreshing and their dynamic was something I wouldn't mind seeing some more of.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
From the first mention I saw about this book I was excited to read it. The teasers had me curious and I couldn't figure out what the relationship between Case and Boone was - if they were related, how they ended up having a daughter together, if they had ever been together as a couple. I had so many questions and I couldn't wait to find out the answers.
Cara Dee, once again, did an amazing job with this story. It's kind of a spin off of her "Auctioned" series and it's set between the third and fourth books. Case and Boone are Darius's cousins who live in Las Vegas and are toeing the line with what's legal and what's not - okay, that's a lie, they totally cross it all the time, but they try to be smart and careful about it.
If you expect stand up characters, great father figures and conventional families, you'll be disappointed. If, on the other hand, want to read about bad boys breaking all kinds of laws, two brothers and best friends raising a little girl to follow in their footsteps and a mother that loves her kids trully unconditionally, then you're in the right place!
A little bit about the story:
Case and Boone aren't related by blood but they grew up together, in the same house and calling the same woman "mom". They are raising Ace together, but they aren't related to her by blood either. Both of them are her dads, but they've never been a couple.
Sounds complex, right?
In reality, it was awesome! Learning about their past and how they reached the point they were in at the beginning of the book. Learning about their connection and their feelings. Seeing them putting their relationship back together.
The story starts when Boone is at a very low point in his life. He's ready to snap. Case seems like he has everything together, but in reality he's just as much lost. They haven't been on speaking terms for four years and it's taking its toll on them. They grew up together, being brothers, best friends and co-workers at the same time. They were each other's most important person and suddenly everything stopped.
This job came at the perfect moment to bring them back together. They had a lot of things from the past to talk about, especially the big secret that tere was between them and that was the reason for their falling out.
I loved reading about Case and Boone finding their way back to each other. Their scenes together were great, their interactions filled with laughter and competitiveness. They were grumpy and funny and their banter was perfect. Their scenes with Ace were something else. The way they chose to raise her was definitely unvonventional, they treated her as an adult, always telling her the truth and including her as much as they could in their conversations and even in their work, when they could. They weren't careful about cursing in front of her and they didn't forbid her from doing it either. Actually, there's one instance were Ace decided to paraphrase a curse word and Case's reaction was to be alarmed and worried about why that happened. She was fierce and pretty independent. I don't know how the way they chose to raise her is going to play out once she reaches puberty, but I hope everything will be fine.
This book is a lot lighter than the Auctioned series, it's full of funny moments, banter and laughter. Of course, there are also serious scenes, but there's always a funny comment or action to lighten the mood. I had fun while reading it and I laughted a lot. The epilogue was sweet and perfect. I'm happy that this family figured everything out and I liked what their future seemed to look like.
Case and Boone were great together, I don't think either of them could be happy with anyone else. It took them a lot of years to get it right, but they deserve their HEA. I hope they'll make some cameo's in future books, their energy is refreshing and their dynamic was something I wouldn't mind seeing some more of.
~ I read an ARC of this book. ~
May 7, 2021
The Job is a fabulous romance by Cara Dee. It's part of the Auctioned created world, but it's read as a standalone, as are all of the books in this amazing series.
I love this book from the start. I think I just connect with the way the author tells a story. And the emotions in this one jump off the pages throughout, which makes for an all consuming read.
Boone and Case are forever linked as they raise Ace together. When the story starts, the two are estranged and raising her separately. Then a job brings the men together. Let the fun begin.
Their past is complex and their future is up for grabs, if they can sort through all the messy obstacles in their way. I love the connection between the two. Hell, the enemies to lovers element proves the intensity between them.
They are part of an organized crime family, so the job aspect is full of adventure and risk, yet always sprinkled with humor. I love it.
Ace. You gotta love Ace. I adore everything about her, including her knowledge of and participation in the family business. And I love how easy going she is with her dads' situation in general. She's spunky, cute, and totally lovable.
I absolutely love the brothers aspect. Love it. They're brothers through adoption, but they're still brothers. So complicated for them and everyone involved. The forbidden aspect is a large part of their problem and it's mesmerizing in the way it all unfolds.
The second chance aspect of this story is always there, as their love is deep and long lasting. The story clearly establishes the strength of their love and the natural reason they became estranged.
The Job is a great read. I can't recommend this Cara Dee book enough. It's a fabulous mix of an organized crime family, second chances, stepbrothers falling in love, a cute kid, and plenty of humor. I love every second of it.
I love this book from the start. I think I just connect with the way the author tells a story. And the emotions in this one jump off the pages throughout, which makes for an all consuming read.
Boone and Case are forever linked as they raise Ace together. When the story starts, the two are estranged and raising her separately. Then a job brings the men together. Let the fun begin.
Their past is complex and their future is up for grabs, if they can sort through all the messy obstacles in their way. I love the connection between the two. Hell, the enemies to lovers element proves the intensity between them.
They are part of an organized crime family, so the job aspect is full of adventure and risk, yet always sprinkled with humor. I love it.
Ace. You gotta love Ace. I adore everything about her, including her knowledge of and participation in the family business. And I love how easy going she is with her dads' situation in general. She's spunky, cute, and totally lovable.
I absolutely love the brothers aspect. Love it. They're brothers through adoption, but they're still brothers. So complicated for them and everyone involved. The forbidden aspect is a large part of their problem and it's mesmerizing in the way it all unfolds.
The second chance aspect of this story is always there, as their love is deep and long lasting. The story clearly establishes the strength of their love and the natural reason they became estranged.
The Job is a great read. I can't recommend this Cara Dee book enough. It's a fabulous mix of an organized crime family, second chances, stepbrothers falling in love, a cute kid, and plenty of humor. I love every second of it.
June 11, 2021
2.5 stars...and I have no idea which way to round...let's find out!
I don't say this often, but I liked it a lot better before they got together. (Would round up.) It went downhill from there. (Would round way the hell down.)
I liked the dynamic with their daughter. She didn't have a huge presence, and it wasn't her personality so much as the way they all related to each other that I LOVED. This specific unusual take on a parent-child relationship is what drew me to this book in the first place, and that aspect lived up to my expectations. (Would round up.)
I couldn't deal with the way they kept calling each other "little brother"/"big brother" DURING THE SEX SCENES!!! I don't read incest/twincest, but the stepbrother/foster brother stuff doesn't bother me, typically because it's always very clear that that's not how the characters think of each other. These two...pretty sure it's just a piece of legal good luck that they're not blood related. I don't think they would have cared either way... (Would round DOWN.)
And since that's not even the reason the last 40% of the book didn't work so well for me...
Rounding down
I don't say this often, but I liked it a lot better before they got together. (Would round up.) It went downhill from there. (Would round way the hell down.)
I liked the dynamic with their daughter. She didn't have a huge presence, and it wasn't her personality so much as the way they all related to each other that I LOVED. This specific unusual take on a parent-child relationship is what drew me to this book in the first place, and that aspect lived up to my expectations. (Would round up.)
I couldn't deal with the way they kept calling each other "little brother"/"big brother" DURING THE SEX SCENES!!! I don't read incest/twincest, but the stepbrother/foster brother stuff doesn't bother me, typically because it's always very clear that that's not how the characters think of each other. These two...pretty sure it's just a piece of legal good luck that they're not blood related. I don't think they would have cared either way... (Would round DOWN.)
And since that's not even the reason the last 40% of the book didn't work so well for me...
Rounding down
July 10, 2021
I am a big fan of Cara Dee, her books have a way of pulling me right in as soon as I start to read. So it comes as a surprise when The Job failed to pull me in and how I struggled to finish because the writing and story is such a mess.
Ion know who wrote this but this is not what I’ve come to expect from CD. Just the overall tone and pacing was somehow off and it didn’t read like a typical CD and so The Job was a job to read.
May 6, 2021
I have to admit that I have been in a HUGE reading slump. I cannot focus on reading more than a chapter in one sitting. It's due to some changes in my life that reading actually triggers the old ways. I bring this up, so you know how slumpy I am, so when I say I read this book in 2 sittings, that's HUGE for me and says a lot about this story.
Let's start with our protaganist...or maybe he's an antagonist? Casey.
I'm pretty sure Casey is my spirit animal. His penchant for the 90's I totally relate with. I think only 90's pre-teens/teens understand this love for the decade. The fact that he has his kid enveloped in this culture is amazing, and adds more depth to this quite humorous story.
You, like myself, are wondering how an organized crime story can be funny? Well, so was Oceans 11 (and 7,8 and however many there were of those). They aren't similar in story line, but I just wanted to give you a better hint. I thought this book would actually be a little more sad, seeing as how Casey and Boone and their little, odd, family were actually on the fritz when we begin our journey in the story.
It's actually wonderful going through the regaining of Casey and Boone's relationship. I'm glad we don't really see the "break-up", but the make-up.
Each father, dad/daddy, has a special relationship with their daughter, Ace (Paisley). Both are unique to them and it's an awesome dynamic in the whole of the family.
I adore Boone. When you first "meet" him, you're not so sure. As the story builds, you get a better sense of who he is as a person, which is a giant teddy bear.
Don't let the word "brother" fool you. This isn't an incest story. Yes, they are brothers, but it isn't by blood. Actually it also makes part of the story pretty funny, you'll see :)
Anyways, without giving more of the story away, this book was a cute, quick, pick me up that got me out of a reading slump, at least for a little while. I highly enjoyed it, and if you like funny kids, sweet big dudes and witty 90's loving men, then this book is for you.
Let's start with our protaganist...or maybe he's an antagonist? Casey.
I'm pretty sure Casey is my spirit animal. His penchant for the 90's I totally relate with. I think only 90's pre-teens/teens understand this love for the decade. The fact that he has his kid enveloped in this culture is amazing, and adds more depth to this quite humorous story.
You, like myself, are wondering how an organized crime story can be funny? Well, so was Oceans 11 (and 7,8 and however many there were of those). They aren't similar in story line, but I just wanted to give you a better hint. I thought this book would actually be a little more sad, seeing as how Casey and Boone and their little, odd, family were actually on the fritz when we begin our journey in the story.
It's actually wonderful going through the regaining of Casey and Boone's relationship. I'm glad we don't really see the "break-up", but the make-up.
Each father, dad/daddy, has a special relationship with their daughter, Ace (Paisley). Both are unique to them and it's an awesome dynamic in the whole of the family.
I adore Boone. When you first "meet" him, you're not so sure. As the story builds, you get a better sense of who he is as a person, which is a giant teddy bear.
Don't let the word "brother" fool you. This isn't an incest story. Yes, they are brothers, but it isn't by blood. Actually it also makes part of the story pretty funny, you'll see :)
Anyways, without giving more of the story away, this book was a cute, quick, pick me up that got me out of a reading slump, at least for a little while. I highly enjoyed it, and if you like funny kids, sweet big dudes and witty 90's loving men, then this book is for you.
June 3, 2021
Let me start this by saying that I have not been this conflicted about a rating for a book in ages. There were parts of this book I absolutely loved and other parts that just confused me...
As with any book that gives me issues let's make a list!!
*I love lists hehe*
Parts I loved:
- ACE *seriously she made the book*
- Boone & Case's witty banter
- Communication, after the first little bit of hate
- The way they always put Ace first, because AWWWW
Parts I was not sure on...
- The "little bro" or "big bro" thing during sex *more on that later*
- Boone's sexuality was never discussed
- The mood of the book was almost depressing???
- Too many parts were rushed
- We never found out what became of the "legality" of their situation
OK, so about the whole sex thing. I love a good taboo story, or one that tests the boundaries, but this felt so out of place in this book. Like, I get the point that some families are made or born differently but it still felt SOOOOO out of place for the story.
I did love that Boone nor Case were seriously rich, they were just two normal guys who did what they needed to do to survive this crazy world.
Honestly, this wasn't a bad book it just wasn't for me, I guess. I did have such high hopes for it but I don't think I will continue on with this series because it just didn't sit right with me. If you do read it all I can say, is I hope you love it!!
As with any book that gives me issues let's make a list!!
*I love lists hehe*
Parts I loved:
- ACE *seriously she made the book*
- Boone & Case's witty banter
- Communication, after the first little bit of hate
- The way they always put Ace first, because AWWWW
Parts I was not sure on...
- The "little bro" or "big bro" thing during sex *more on that later*
- Boone's sexuality was never discussed
- The mood of the book was almost depressing???
- Too many parts were rushed
- We never found out what became of the "legality" of their situation
OK, so about the whole sex thing. I love a good taboo story, or one that tests the boundaries, but this felt so out of place in this book. Like, I get the point that some families are made or born differently but it still felt SOOOOO out of place for the story.
I did love that Boone nor Case were seriously rich, they were just two normal guys who did what they needed to do to survive this crazy world.
Honestly, this wasn't a bad book it just wasn't for me, I guess. I did have such high hopes for it but I don't think I will continue on with this series because it just didn't sit right with me. If you do read it all I can say, is I hope you love it!!
May 4, 2021
The Job by Cara Dee had so much potential, but it was just too short. Great premise, I love the characters, but it all felt rushed and badly needed Boone's POV. She did give us a small glimpse of his thoughts at the start of every chapter, but that almost frustrated me more. I felt that it hurt relationship development- the transition from stepbrothers to lovers.
Don't get me wrong, it was entertaining, but I was expecting more.
3 stars
Don't get me wrong, it was entertaining, but I was expecting more.
3 stars
January 2, 2023
Case and Boone!
I was going to skip this book because it wasn’t about Darius and Gray. I am so glad I didn’t!
Loved this sorta taboo step-brother romance.
Both of these two had to come to terms with their feelings. Painful moments needed to be confronted. Boone’s feelings were never completely fleshed out imo but you knew he was committed to Case. Case was always committed to Boone. They also have a daughter named Ace to consider. Very precocious!
Darius plays a part in the story and I’m glad we had a bit of a break before things get super intense again. Off to read book 5!
I was going to skip this book because it wasn’t about Darius and Gray. I am so glad I didn’t!
Loved this sorta taboo step-brother romance.
Both of these two had to come to terms with their feelings. Painful moments needed to be confronted. Boone’s feelings were never completely fleshed out imo but you knew he was committed to Case. Case was always committed to Boone. They also have a daughter named Ace to consider. Very precocious!
Darius plays a part in the story and I’m glad we had a bit of a break before things get super intense again. Off to read book 5!
February 16, 2023
3.5⭐️
I really liked Casey and Boone actually but the beginning and first half was confusing. The POVs were a little weird in that I couldn’t tell who was who. When it was Boone’s POV (which were the flashbacks) you didn’t really know what was going on until halfway through the book when it aligned with the present POV from Casey. It would have made more sense if we had some background on these characters but they were brand new to me and this series. Even right now I’m still not sure about what really happened in their past besides the obvious. I would have liked the flashbacks to have been from both of their POVs and the present to be in Boone’s POV as well, instead of only Casey’s.
Ace was such a cool kid. Cara Dee writes kids really well actually. She was funny and smart and cursed a smidge (that doesn’t mean she’s a bad kid or her dads are bad parents btw). I actually really liked how this book showed imperfectly perfect (imo) parenting. It soothes a part of my soul that missed out on this from my parents.
This didn’t have much focus on the job Darius asked of them about the trafficking ring leader, it dealt more with how the job brought them closer together. I do want more of this duo though. One book was not enough.
I really liked Casey and Boone actually but the beginning and first half was confusing. The POVs were a little weird in that I couldn’t tell who was who. When it was Boone’s POV (which were the flashbacks) you didn’t really know what was going on until halfway through the book when it aligned with the present POV from Casey. It would have made more sense if we had some background on these characters but they were brand new to me and this series. Even right now I’m still not sure about what really happened in their past besides the obvious. I would have liked the flashbacks to have been from both of their POVs and the present to be in Boone’s POV as well, instead of only Casey’s.
Ace was such a cool kid. Cara Dee writes kids really well actually. She was funny and smart and cursed a smidge (that doesn’t mean she’s a bad kid or her dads are bad parents btw). I actually really liked how this book showed imperfectly perfect (imo) parenting. It soothes a part of my soul that missed out on this from my parents.
This didn’t have much focus on the job Darius asked of them about the trafficking ring leader, it dealt more with how the job brought them closer together. I do want more of this duo though. One book was not enough.
May 20, 2021
3.25 stars. I have to admit straight away that I only bought this cos of the mention of the Auctioned series, and the idea that Boone and Casey were going to help Darius and Gray in some way to take down those trafficking motherf***ers. All they actually seemed to do was eat a lot of junk food, carry out a teeny, tiny bit of surveillance work for Darius and then help themselves to high priced trinkets and cash from the supposed leader's son's safes. Reading about tatted-up bears who can't decide whether they even like let alone love each other is not my idea of a good read anyhoo. Disappointing.
May 18, 2021
It should be noted right off the bat that this is mislabeled on Goodreads as part of the Auctioned series. It is not. It is a stand alone story about two guys (thieves) who grew up as brothers (unrelated) who are now sharing in the upbringing of an 8 year old girl, whom they call Ace. Casey and Boone have been estranged for the past four years and while not on speaking terms, have been co-parenting Ace.
Another thing to note about this story is that it is noticeably not what I have come to expect from Cara Dee in that it has an altogether different feel to it than everything else I've read. Unfortunately, I was a bit disappointed by this. Instead of a gritty, down and dirty story, this one felt like it was trying too hard to be current. Brothers who aren't actual brothers realizing they are in love and because neither wanted to acknowledge it, they've been ignoring each other for four years. One is now bisexual, and they are parents who treat their daughter as they do each other. Often times, I was lost as to how old Ms. Ace actually was, although it seems she is destined to be a master thief like her fathers.
It takes a while for Casey and Boone to figure things out, but a job pops up that sort of forces them to rethink things. When they do decide to reconcile and move forward together, they are accepted by all. As in, no one bats an eye that these guys are suddenly a couple. There was a lot going on here besides what was happening with these guys, i.e. the job, the daughter, etc., and I really would have liked to have seen more details on what they had gone through to get where they are in this story. There were aspects I enjoyed, but overall, I was hoping for more.
Needless to say, Ms. Dee remains on my auto read list, and I am still looking forward to whatever she comes up with next.
Review written for Love Bytes Reviews.
January 15, 2023
2.75 out of 5 ☆’s.
“There was no word that could do justice to how much I loved him.”
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This was an interesting novelette!
While ”The Job” certainly had some nice, enjoyable, moments — it ultimately left me wanting more from the story & its characters…
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Boone + Casey’s relationship had a lot of potential — I was excited to learn about their history with one another when I began the novel — however, I felt as though we weren’t able to explore their relationship & their history with one another as much as I had originally hoped…:(
I’m aware of the page constraints — since this is a shorter story — but there were times where I felt a bit out of the loop regarding some of the relationships that were mentioned & the history that some of the characters shared (e.g.: Tia’s past with Casey + Boone).
(Note: I’m aware of the fact that a lot of Cara’s books are connected, so perhaps those relationships are discussed more in a different book of hers?)
I also (selfishly) wish that we would’ve spent some more time in the yearning stages of Casey + Boone’s relationship, before they revealed their feelings for one another…
P.S. I loved Darius’ little cameo in ”The Job” (It was nice to see a familiar face)!
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I cannot wait to get back to Darius + Gray. ♡
“There was no word that could do justice to how much I loved him.”
ੈ✩‧₊˚
This was an interesting novelette!
While ”The Job” certainly had some nice, enjoyable, moments — it ultimately left me wanting more from the story & its characters…
ੈ✩‧₊˚
Boone + Casey’s relationship had a lot of potential — I was excited to learn about their history with one another when I began the novel — however, I felt as though we weren’t able to explore their relationship & their history with one another as much as I had originally hoped…:(
I’m aware of the page constraints — since this is a shorter story — but there were times where I felt a bit out of the loop regarding some of the relationships that were mentioned & the history that some of the characters shared (e.g.: Tia’s past with Casey + Boone).
(Note: I’m aware of the fact that a lot of Cara’s books are connected, so perhaps those relationships are discussed more in a different book of hers?)
I also (selfishly) wish that we would’ve spent some more time in the yearning stages of Casey + Boone’s relationship, before they revealed their feelings for one another…
P.S. I loved Darius’ little cameo in ”The Job” (It was nice to see a familiar face)!
ੈ✩‧₊˚
I cannot wait to get back to Darius + Gray. ♡
October 15, 2021
I read the book just because I wanted to get to know Boone and Casey better. Because we already knew what was going on thanks to the 4th and 5th books of the series.
Yeap, that's it.
Yeap, that's it.
May 10, 2021
Casey and Boone are co-parenting Ace. For the last four years they weren’t on speaking terms. Throughout this story, we get a bit of a view of their lives, what happened and why it hurts so much.
So many memories, but also a lot of shit to remember. Casey’s feelings changed over the years, camaraderie turned into love. Four years ago Casey was completely done with Boone and broke their connection. Boone didn’t understand what was going on.
Yeah, talking isn’t their best quality.
Now they are on speaking terms again, something is different about Boone. Still talking isn’t something they were doing well. For my pleasure, it could have been less vague.
Without going into detail, they had a job to do that could give some great perspectives.
While I loved the story, for a full experience I missed a lot too. It was fun, shady, and vague, that last one bothered me the most to enjoy it wholeheartedly.
A lot of argumentative passages and not all logical.
It was enjoyable but it stopped at some level. Still, I had a good time reading it.
So many memories, but also a lot of shit to remember. Casey’s feelings changed over the years, camaraderie turned into love. Four years ago Casey was completely done with Boone and broke their connection. Boone didn’t understand what was going on.
Yeah, talking isn’t their best quality.
Now they are on speaking terms again, something is different about Boone. Still talking isn’t something they were doing well. For my pleasure, it could have been less vague.
Without going into detail, they had a job to do that could give some great perspectives.
While I loved the story, for a full experience I missed a lot too. It was fun, shady, and vague, that last one bothered me the most to enjoy it wholeheartedly.
A lot of argumentative passages and not all logical.
It was enjoyable but it stopped at some level. Still, I had a good time reading it.
did-not-finish
January 15, 2023DNF @ 16%. No rating.
This is the first Cara Dee book I've tried and it wasn't my thing at all. For some reason, I didn't catch that they were brothers when I read the summary so that was a big no-thanks from me once I realized what was happening. Since these guys are brothers via adoption, I might have been able to deal with it, except they kept referring to each other as brothers constantly and that's how their mother treated them too. Nope. Can't do it.
I also didn't feel any chemistry between them and I didn't like how the author dealt with their second chance romance. There are a few flashbacks but they all revolve around the MCs taking care of the kid at various ages instead of focusing on their romance so I couldn't get a clear handle on what their first relationship even involved. As a result, I didn't care about a possible reunion.
I also couldn't stand the kid. She's supposed to be 8 years old but talks and acts like a teenager. And some of the things she said were too mature even for a teenager.
But what really threw me off is that the MCs have a very...let's say 'unique' approach to parenting. They swear constantly in front of her and she's adopted that same language, which is something that seems to be accepted as completely normal. They've taught her how to shoplift and when Casey catches her stealing, he only get mad due to the location she stole from, not the actual stealing. When these guys take her (remember - she's 8 years old) with them when they're staking out a human trafficker/drug dealer/etc bad guy and they even involve her in their cover plans to get closer to the house, that's when I decided to nope out. All of this behavior is treated by the MCs and the MCs family as being completely normal but it's not what I want to read.
This is the first Cara Dee book I've tried and it wasn't my thing at all. For some reason, I didn't catch that they were brothers when I read the summary so that was a big no-thanks from me once I realized what was happening. Since these guys are brothers via adoption, I might have been able to deal with it, except they kept referring to each other as brothers constantly and that's how their mother treated them too. Nope. Can't do it.
I also didn't feel any chemistry between them and I didn't like how the author dealt with their second chance romance. There are a few flashbacks but they all revolve around the MCs taking care of the kid at various ages instead of focusing on their romance so I couldn't get a clear handle on what their first relationship even involved. As a result, I didn't care about a possible reunion.
I also couldn't stand the kid. She's supposed to be 8 years old but talks and acts like a teenager. And some of the things she said were too mature even for a teenager.
But what really threw me off is that the MCs have a very...let's say 'unique' approach to parenting. They swear constantly in front of her and she's adopted that same language, which is something that seems to be accepted as completely normal. They've taught her how to shoplift and when Casey catches her stealing, he only get mad due to the location she stole from, not the actual stealing. When these guys take her (remember - she's 8 years old) with them when they're staking out a human trafficker/drug dealer/etc bad guy and they even involve her in their cover plans to get closer to the house, that's when I decided to nope out. All of this behavior is treated by the MCs and the MCs family as being completely normal but it's not what I want to read.
May 16, 2021
Hmm, I tried. I'm actually surprised Cara wrote this. It didn't feel like her usual books, but that obviously isn't a bad thing for authors to branch out - just the best parts of her writing weren't consistently there. The plot and the characters just couldn't fully keep my attention. I LOVED Boone and Casey, but I wanted more of them, and way less of their daughter, mother, and all of the other action pieces. I mean, yes, I knew I signed up to read an action-romance book, but the action bit was not interesting to me at all. I've read other m/m books about thieves that I adored, so it's not the topic itself I don't enjoy.
Ace, the daughter, was a strange cat. Was she 3 years old? Was she 17? Was she thirty? She seemed all sorts of ages except her actual 8 years. And this is terrible to say about a child, but I don't know...she just wasn't likable. Also, having her participate in their crimes left a bad taste in my mouth.
Boone's flashbacks and POV were the absolute best part of this book. I would have loved more of that.
Ace, the daughter, was a strange cat. Was she 3 years old? Was she 17? Was she thirty? She seemed all sorts of ages except her actual 8 years. And this is terrible to say about a child, but I don't know...she just wasn't likable. Also, having her participate in their crimes left a bad taste in my mouth.
Boone's flashbacks and POV were the absolute best part of this book. I would have loved more of that.
May 1, 2021
4.5 stars
Boone and Casey are adopted brothers. They have gone from best friends to not speaking for 4 years. This takes a toll on the men and their family. Together they share an 8 year daughter, Ace.
Through friends they take on a job that has them working closely. The fight between them begins to thaw.
I really enjoyed this family. They are real and give no fu*ks. They fight and love with all they have.
The only complaint I have about this book was the endless 80's and 90's songs that go stuck in my head as a result of Casey's love òf the era.
This is a great story that was a lot of fun. There is action, tension, a bit of drama, a great family, some super hot sexy times and more than a few laughs. It's not all fun and games but it is an excellent read.
Boone and Casey are adopted brothers. They have gone from best friends to not speaking for 4 years. This takes a toll on the men and their family. Together they share an 8 year daughter, Ace.
Through friends they take on a job that has them working closely. The fight between them begins to thaw.
I really enjoyed this family. They are real and give no fu*ks. They fight and love with all they have.
The only complaint I have about this book was the endless 80's and 90's songs that go stuck in my head as a result of Casey's love òf the era.
This is a great story that was a lot of fun. There is action, tension, a bit of drama, a great family, some super hot sexy times and more than a few laughs. It's not all fun and games but it is an excellent read.
December 7, 2023
December 2023: I don’t have much to add to what I originally said in my original review. The way Ace vacillates between Dad and Daddy with no set name for either man still really bothered me. At times it was unclear to whom she was referring. This is told from Casey’s POV with the exception of short thoughts at the beginning of each chapter by Boone. I’m not sure this will get any more mileage from me. Twice was enough.
I’ll be continuing with the rest of the books in the Auctioned series.
***Cara Dee often has her characters make appearances in other books. It will be very confusing if Casey ever appears in Camassia since there’s already a Casey there from a previous book (Uncomplicated Choices). Not to mention if she ever has KC from her Mclean House series interact with the other two Caseys. At least it’s spelled differently. Might make it awkward for an audiobook though.***
May 2021: 4.5 stars — Another great Cara Dee book! I loved Casey and Boone. There were only a couple of things that left me wanting. I would have liked to hear more from Boone and how he dealt with his changing feelings for Casey. There must have been an internal struggle for him to go from always being straight to realizing his feelings and attraction for Casey ran so much deeper. I wish Ace had once set name she called each of her fathers. It was a little confusing at first. She calls them both Dad and Daddy, switching it up all the time. It took me several chapters to get used to this.
I’ll be continuing with the rest of the books in the Auctioned series.
***Cara Dee often has her characters make appearances in other books. It will be very confusing if Casey ever appears in Camassia since there’s already a Casey there from a previous book (Uncomplicated Choices). Not to mention if she ever has KC from her Mclean House series interact with the other two Caseys. At least it’s spelled differently. Might make it awkward for an audiobook though.***
May 2021: 4.5 stars — Another great Cara Dee book! I loved Casey and Boone. There were only a couple of things that left me wanting. I would have liked to hear more from Boone and how he dealt with his changing feelings for Casey. There must have been an internal struggle for him to go from always being straight to realizing his feelings and attraction for Casey ran so much deeper. I wish Ace had once set name she called each of her fathers. It was a little confusing at first. She calls them both Dad and Daddy, switching it up all the time. It took me several chapters to get used to this.
June 30, 2021
I'm conflicted. On one hand, I liked the forbidden romance aspect of the first half. That gets dropped in the second half. Boone and Casey want to be romantic partners, but treat each other like brothers with benefits, which feels odd at times. It also feels like we get half the story, or we're missing something. It starts four years after a big fight, yet we only get snippets of what it was about and how they came to that position in the first place. The idea that they bring a child to dangerous situations also rubs me wrong.
I'm tethering between "not bad" and "not good". It is supposed to be a stand alone in the camassia cove universe, but just like with the auctioned series, it has enough lore from the other characters it's connected to to be a bit confusing at times. Anyone who hasn't read the first three auctioned books would be both confused by small but relevant details (like who Willow is) or spoiled parts of the plot. I do feel it's relevant to the auctioned story, though how much will be revealed in the next books.
I'm tethering between "not bad" and "not good". It is supposed to be a stand alone in the camassia cove universe, but just like with the auctioned series, it has enough lore from the other characters it's connected to to be a bit confusing at times. Anyone who hasn't read the first three auctioned books would be both confused by small but relevant details (like who Willow is) or spoiled parts of the plot. I do feel it's relevant to the auctioned story, though how much will be revealed in the next books.
April 27, 2021
Let me start by saying I am reading this as the stand alone they say you can read it in. however, as I was reading, I kept thinking it would be better, or that I was missing something because I’d not read the series that this book is set close to. the Auctioned series is that series. It wasn’t that bad, I’m easy, and can generally read a series backwards if they all have a standalone-ish feel, and this did have that, but there was just something, like the people who were mentioned where meant to be people I knew about already (tho correct me if I’m wrong), and it was completely about what was happening around the romance, not the relationship itself, which is how it can and does work alone. I just wanted to add this if you are someone who needs to read things in order, you should def look into it a bit more.
the romance worked for me. It was a cute second chance romance between two brothers who had a falling out because of reasons I’m not so sure wouldn’t be spoilers. It showed a history, a reason why they’d been close before, why they separated and it really pushed the renewed love, that hadn’t really left but had been broken. Second chance is one of my favourite troupes and this one definitely gave me what I wanted from the troupe.
I didn’t get the comedy part of this book. I’m pretty sure it was meant to come from the daughter but honestly, she was just a little girl who wanted to be like her dad’s, and it was cute maybe. The only thing I found funny was when she said fudge, but I really did like the family aspect and how that was a huge part of them coming together again. That it broke down walls Casey had but up, quickly, reminding him of who he is and not seeing him through the anger he was holding.
Side note: this is 1st Person POV from Casey, however at the beginning of each chapter there is a small italic mode in the other person POV and in my addition, which is an arc, it isn’t labelled that it’s him, only that Casey was the main POV and it took me longer then I should realise what was happening.
the romance worked for me. It was a cute second chance romance between two brothers who had a falling out because of reasons I’m not so sure wouldn’t be spoilers. It showed a history, a reason why they’d been close before, why they separated and it really pushed the renewed love, that hadn’t really left but had been broken. Second chance is one of my favourite troupes and this one definitely gave me what I wanted from the troupe.
I didn’t get the comedy part of this book. I’m pretty sure it was meant to come from the daughter but honestly, she was just a little girl who wanted to be like her dad’s, and it was cute maybe. The only thing I found funny was when she said fudge, but I really did like the family aspect and how that was a huge part of them coming together again. That it broke down walls Casey had but up, quickly, reminding him of who he is and not seeing him through the anger he was holding.
Side note: this is 1st Person POV from Casey, however at the beginning of each chapter there is a small italic mode in the other person POV and in my addition, which is an arc, it isn’t labelled that it’s him, only that Casey was the main POV and it took me longer then I should realise what was happening.
May 4, 2021
Sadly, but this is the second book I wanted to DNF by Cara and I don't like it. I love Cara Dee's books, but these last two weren't for me somehow.
My biggest problem with this book was the kid/girl. I don't know how old she was, but those thing she did (shoplifting, cursing), it creeped me out a lot! And I really don't know why she was important to the story, I mean, without her, it would be just as a 'taboo romance' as with her. Okay, it wouldn't be single dads trope, but anyway...
The taboo aspect of the story (brothers, but not real, blood related ones), I just couldn't get into it. I love these kind of stories but this time I just couldn't see the relationship between these two. It was boring for me and the romance and the erotica were both flat and empty. I am so sad about it, I wanted to love this book. I hope the next book by Cara will be better.
My biggest problem with this book was the kid/girl. I don't know how old she was, but those thing she did (shoplifting, cursing), it creeped me out a lot! And I really don't know why she was important to the story, I mean, without her, it would be just as a 'taboo romance' as with her. Okay, it wouldn't be single dads trope, but anyway...
The taboo aspect of the story (brothers, but not real, blood related ones), I just couldn't get into it. I love these kind of stories but this time I just couldn't see the relationship between these two. It was boring for me and the romance and the erotica were both flat and empty. I am so sad about it, I wanted to love this book. I hope the next book by Cara will be better.
May 10, 2021
3.5. I like this, but I it could have been better. I feel that everything happened to quickly, the resolved there issue out of the blue. I need more meat in this. Having said Cara Dee is an amazing writer, she has one of my favorite books, however I’ve never been able to replicate my initial awe of her, but I’ll keep trying.
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