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Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #3
The Mortician
After a betrayal destroys Mort's dreams of love and family, he pledges his undying loyalty to the Grimm Reapers. As their newly appointed enforcer, he instills fear and carries out vengeance without mercy. The last thing he needs is the club’s notorious hangaround boy sliding beneath his sheets and messing with his head. Not when trouble is brewing for the club again, and this time it might all be Mort’s fault.
Cass’s reputation is legendary in Smoky Vale. Insatiable as he is, he has no plans to settle down anytime soon. Until he sees how happy his friends are with their men. Too bad the only man Cass wants will never trust him with his heart.
Now that he’s dancing and gaining even more popularity, will Cass forget about Mort and look for love elsewhere? Will Mort stick to his plan and leave Cass alone or will he give the boy the chance to prove his love and loyalty?
The Mortician is a 120k word age gap biker romance set in the Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale universe with gritty, foul-mouthed bikers and the sweet boys who bring them to their knees.
Cass’s reputation is legendary in Smoky Vale. Insatiable as he is, he has no plans to settle down anytime soon. Until he sees how happy his friends are with their men. Too bad the only man Cass wants will never trust him with his heart.
Now that he’s dancing and gaining even more popularity, will Cass forget about Mort and look for love elsewhere? Will Mort stick to his plan and leave Cass alone or will he give the boy the chance to prove his love and loyalty?
The Mortician is a 120k word age gap biker romance set in the Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale universe with gritty, foul-mouthed bikers and the sweet boys who bring them to their knees.
498 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 30, 2021
124 people are currently reading
295 people want to read
About the author
Gianni Holmes
106 books1,295 followersGianni Holmes is a USA TODAY Bestselling author who's embracing her love for literature by wielding the pen and creating stories of her own. She's the author of the popular series The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale and The Taking Care series. Gianni is a former teacher of Spanish Language and Hispanic Literature.
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
These days she can be found writing books, hanging out with her readers, and raising her daughter as a single mother. You can keep in touch with her in the following places:
Patreon: https://www.patreon.com/authorgiannih...
Newsletter: https://www.gianniholmesauthor.com/ne...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/giannigems
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 99 reviews
June 9, 2022
3.50 stars story.
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May 13, 2023
Cass catches Mort's (The Mortician) eye, but after a jealous bartender twists his words, Mort is forced to watch the man he wanted please and sleep with his brothers. After Cass's mother died, his stepfather raped him and forced him to prostitute himself as a teenager. While he escaped his father's hands, Cass has become a hang-around at the club, pleasing the bikers as that's the only thing he knows, but in exchange, he gets a clean and safe space to live. He also gets his agency and right to choose. However, he's gained a reputation for being easy which has also played into his self-worth.
I felt so bad for Cass. Honestly, he's treated so horribly, and while he's not being physically hurt, he's viewed by others as trash because of how he lets them use him. Mort was so horrible to him in the previous books that I could not imagine them as a pair, so seeing the hints that Cass and Mort would be a couple was interesting. Mort watched his father be betrayed by his mother and later his own wife, so for him to accept Cass with the history he has at the club is difficult for him as he's also worried he would cheat on him too.
The way sex workers are talked about in this book by the other characters is truly awful, but I guess with crass biker men, it's to be expected. However, it does get better as the story progresses, so please check TWs and the author's note.
As with each book, there's an action plotline alongside the romance. Mort was hard to like initially, but he does get better as the story progresses. Does he deserve Cass at the end? I don't know, but at least they get their HEA, and Cass seems to be in a much better situation.
I liked the discussion of kink because the other couples have a Daddy/boy or Daddy/Little relationship, but Mort was not into that because of his desire to be a father and not being able to have children. So he was upfront with Cass, saying he would feel uncomfortable being called a Daddy.
Overall I did enjoy it and look forward to the next book!
I felt so bad for Cass. Honestly, he's treated so horribly, and while he's not being physically hurt, he's viewed by others as trash because of how he lets them use him. Mort was so horrible to him in the previous books that I could not imagine them as a pair, so seeing the hints that Cass and Mort would be a couple was interesting. Mort watched his father be betrayed by his mother and later his own wife, so for him to accept Cass with the history he has at the club is difficult for him as he's also worried he would cheat on him too.
The way sex workers are talked about in this book by the other characters is truly awful, but I guess with crass biker men, it's to be expected. However, it does get better as the story progresses, so please check TWs and the author's note.
As with each book, there's an action plotline alongside the romance. Mort was hard to like initially, but he does get better as the story progresses. Does he deserve Cass at the end? I don't know, but at least they get their HEA, and Cass seems to be in a much better situation.
I liked the discussion of kink because the other couples have a Daddy/boy or Daddy/Little relationship, but Mort was not into that because of his desire to be a father and not being able to have children. So he was upfront with Cass, saying he would feel uncomfortable being called a Daddy.
Overall I did enjoy it and look forward to the next book!
June 8, 2021
This is exactly how I like a story in this genre. Rough, tough, willing to kill for the ones they love, solidarity, possessiveness, protection, big burly dangerous guys who love the fragile innocent ones. Wheee I loved it all.
Mort has to dive deep to find the courage to open up and accept the fact he wants Cass, even though he’s tainted in Mort’s eyes.
After being insulted and hurt over and over by Mort, Cass wants to find a place of his own and find ‘the one’ who will respect him. Mort doesn’t want him.
Some good thought-out side stories where the true nature of the bikers shows are wonderfully entwined, still Mort and Cass are the main here and I loved it all.
Misunderstandings and people who intervened the wrong way made Mort look at Cass the wrong way. Some real fucked up things happened, where my heart broke for Cass.
When a Grimm Reaper loves it’s not just, it’s hot as hell. When they hate they are vicious.
They have big mouths and even bigger hearts. All is to find in this narrative!
I loved this story! Excellently written and captivating af!
Mort has to dive deep to find the courage to open up and accept the fact he wants Cass, even though he’s tainted in Mort’s eyes.
After being insulted and hurt over and over by Mort, Cass wants to find a place of his own and find ‘the one’ who will respect him. Mort doesn’t want him.
Some good thought-out side stories where the true nature of the bikers shows are wonderfully entwined, still Mort and Cass are the main here and I loved it all.
Misunderstandings and people who intervened the wrong way made Mort look at Cass the wrong way. Some real fucked up things happened, where my heart broke for Cass.
When a Grimm Reaper loves it’s not just, it’s hot as hell. When they hate they are vicious.
They have big mouths and even bigger hearts. All is to find in this narrative!
I loved this story! Excellently written and captivating af!
December 31, 2021
This is my first read in this series. To me, the story was completely unrealistic and some of the conversation and interaction between characters was a bit off. I did like the storyline and there was lots of hot sex.
Read
May 16, 2023There is a lot going on in this. Thinking I might need to read the first books in the series to appreciate it more so no rating right now. There is quite a few storyline’s here and things got pretty OTT at times.
I was intrigued by one MC being a mortician (although it turns out he isn’t actually that but he does cremate people) and the other being the bikie club hanger-on. I spent most of this feeling bad for Cass but it was interesting getting the viewpoint of a hanger-on in a bikie club as every other biker book I’ve read has been the actual bikers or outsiders.
I was intrigued by one MC being a mortician (although it turns out he isn’t actually that but he does cremate people) and the other being the bikie club hanger-on. I spent most of this feeling bad for Cass but it was interesting getting the viewpoint of a hanger-on in a bikie club as every other biker book I’ve read has been the actual bikers or outsiders.
February 6, 2022
This book and series is definitely OTT, but I am really enjoying it.
4.25 stars
4.25 stars
May 30, 2021
I'm thrilled to see this series continue! The author writes great M/M MC romance, of which I can never get enough of. This is by far my favorite book in the series. I liked both of the first two, but they each had their issues--book 1 was a bit OTT, and the second book at times felt as though it was all over the place. This one, however, had the perfect amount of action and drama, while keeping the focus on the romance and the development of the relationship between the two main characters. I have been looking forward to Cass's romance since the moment we first met him, and I was so thrilled to see him get his HEA. Cass is the lovable biker groupie who hangs around the clubhouse getting it on with whoever will have him. Mort is the guy that Cass likes the best, and who harbors feelings for Cass in return. Now, it would be easy to dislike Mort. However, I appreciate that the author warns us in the beginning about how Mort's opinions about being promiscuous are wrong and tells us that he has a growing curve. This really helped me because I was able to reserve judgment. Also, I think there's often an (unfair?) expectation that our characters in romances be perfect. I'm OK with an imperfect character as long as the book itself fully addresses those flaws. Mort is not perfect in the beginning, but I do think that he learns and becomes a better person by the end. It's great that we see Cass's two friends, Jamie and Fable, advocating for the two sides: Not forgive Mort v. forgive Mort. I was glad that Fable's side--forgive Mort--won out!
If I had to have an issue with this book, it would be that I wish this book worked better as a standalone. I have read the previous books and even I felt that I was missing a couple pieces at the beginning of the novel. The romance between Mort and Cass had its origins before this particular book started. That being said, I was able to follow along really well.
Overall, this is a great MC romance, the two main characters have a connection and the steamy times are off-the-charts. If you like the series, you must read this one! I can't wait for the next book...hopefully about Miles!
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
If I had to have an issue with this book, it would be that I wish this book worked better as a standalone. I have read the previous books and even I felt that I was missing a couple pieces at the beginning of the novel. The romance between Mort and Cass had its origins before this particular book started. That being said, I was able to follow along really well.
Overall, this is a great MC romance, the two main characters have a connection and the steamy times are off-the-charts. If you like the series, you must read this one! I can't wait for the next book...hopefully about Miles!
**I received a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review**
January 27, 2025
I’d have done anything for that man if he just claimed me as his before his brothers. - Cass
Warnings: Violence by and Against MCs & Side Characters, Death, Attempted & Mentions of SA and Rape, Kidnapping, Mental Illness, MC Previously Cheated On
The Basics
Overall:
1st Person, Dual POV
3rd Act Break Up: No
Slow-burn: No
HEA: Yes
MC Sex w/o Other MC(s): Yes, before officially together
Spice: 3/5
Angst/Stress: 2.5/5
Fluff: 1/5
Structure/Format/Flow: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
“Then you mustn't care about me because every time I see you with someone else, you rip my fucking heart out. Over and over again.” - Mort
Intimate/Spicy Moments Include:
Anal sex, safe sex, hands free orgasm, hand necklace, sex toys, blowjob, DP with toy & cock, rimming, group sex scene (no sharing), no condom, strict roles
“For now, we do nothing. Go home and love on our boys.” He stared at me point-blank. “Of course, some of us fucked that up and haven’t fixed it yet.” Shit. Not Grimm too. - Mort
Main Character Information:
Cass: 21, red hair & brown eyes, Reapers hangaround then becomes stripper at Vice & Virtue, bottom
Mort: Hollis, The Mortician, Cremator, Enforcer for the Reapers, top, head tattoos
Maybe Mort couldn’t love me back because there was nothing to love. - Cass
Notable Tropes/Tags/Themes/etc.:
Motorcycle Club
Found Family
Touch Him And I’ll End You
“Yeah, you’re forever mine. I’m never letting you go, Cass.” - Mort
My Opinions on:
- Two people with difficult pasts FINALLY find their way to forever with each other. It was not necessarily a problem of miscommunication, but lack of communication. Both sides just couldn’t get it out straight. When they kind of did, then Mort had a lot of trust issues to address. Loved him talking to the Rev. Lots of action and drama, some people deserved worse than what they got but I know that doesn’t always happen unfortunately.
- Cass: Absolutely no self respect, I feel so bad for him. I am happy he was able to get people in his life that care for him and knows he deserves more. Love his connection with Fable <3. As the story goes on, he learns to respect himself more, but still prone to not making the best decisions.
- Mort: This book started and I honestly fucking hated him. Should Cass have communicated sooner, yeah. But in that environment being a hangaround and having him being so nasty and Cass having a bad past I see why. Mort has a lot more experience with life and was in the more dominant position and I don’t think he groveled enough TBH. I liked who he was in the second half much more.
- Favorite Moment: Mort & Whip at the bar towards the end LOL I am sooooooo ready for their book. I read some of their story on Patreon. I am starving for a full novel.
- World Building: Still loving it! I enjoyed the addition of Vice & Virtue. Characters have not changed as far as personality goes. Whip and Noose encounters are getting more vivid, it’s lovely, thank you so much.
- Favorite Side Character(s): The Reverend. I am dying. I need his story. This man is the G.O.A.T. “I need to start at the beginning.” “Yeah, that’s always a good place to start.” I placed my forearms on the table and told him how I first met Cass and what had happened that night. “Sounds hot.” The reverend sipped his coffee. “Did you at least join in?” “No.” Why had I even come here?
- Hardest Part: Learning about how in the beginning . Honestly, I think Mort should have whopped that guys assssssss. Idk, it just made me so mad.
”Despite every shitty thing I’ve said or done to you, you chose me, and I won’t ever let you regret it. I swear it on my life, Cass.” - Mort
Milestone Moments:
Noose Helps Cass <3:
Mort and Rev Talk:
The Truth About the First Night:
Rubble Talks Too Much:
Whip & Noose, Love It:
Cass Gets Got:
Mort Gets His Man:
Yes!:
Intimate Scenes:
I walked away from him, my life as I knew it crumbling around me. Cass was my one solace. - Mort
Side Characters:
Alan:, No Book Mentioned
Ben:, Gunner (The Smoky Vale Alliance #2)
Booker: Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Crowe:, Crowe’s Creed (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #5)
Dr. Collier: Bloom Part 1 & 2 (The Smoky Vale Alliance #3 & #4)
Fable: Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Grimm:, Biker Daddy, (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #1)
Gunner:, Gunner (The Smoky Vale Alliance #2)
Jamie:, Biker Daddy, (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #1)
Max:, Crowe’s Creed (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #5)
Miles: Miles High (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #4)
Noose:
Reverend:, No Book Mentioned
Rubble: Miles High (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #4)
Whip:
Zak: Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Minor Characters:
Dove: Bartender, topless, They/Them pronouns, Nonbinary
He scrambled to his feet and ran over to me. Of course, I caught him. I would always catch him. - Hollis
Warnings: Violence by and Against MCs & Side Characters, Death, Attempted & Mentions of SA and Rape, Kidnapping, Mental Illness, MC Previously Cheated On
The Basics
Overall:
1st Person, Dual POV
3rd Act Break Up: No
Slow-burn: No
HEA: Yes
MC Sex w/o Other MC(s): Yes, before officially together
Spice: 3/5
Angst/Stress: 2.5/5
Fluff: 1/5
Structure/Format/Flow: 5/5
Overall: 5/5
“Then you mustn't care about me because every time I see you with someone else, you rip my fucking heart out. Over and over again.” - Mort
Intimate/Spicy Moments Include:
Anal sex, safe sex, hands free orgasm, hand necklace, sex toys, blowjob, DP with toy & cock, rimming, group sex scene (no sharing), no condom, strict roles
“For now, we do nothing. Go home and love on our boys.” He stared at me point-blank. “Of course, some of us fucked that up and haven’t fixed it yet.” Shit. Not Grimm too. - Mort
Main Character Information:
Cass: 21, red hair & brown eyes, Reapers hangaround then becomes stripper at Vice & Virtue, bottom
Mort: Hollis, The Mortician, Cremator, Enforcer for the Reapers, top, head tattoos
Maybe Mort couldn’t love me back because there was nothing to love. - Cass
Notable Tropes/Tags/Themes/etc.:
Motorcycle Club
Found Family
Touch Him And I’ll End You
“Yeah, you’re forever mine. I’m never letting you go, Cass.” - Mort
My Opinions on:
- Two people with difficult pasts FINALLY find their way to forever with each other. It was not necessarily a problem of miscommunication, but lack of communication. Both sides just couldn’t get it out straight. When they kind of did, then Mort had a lot of trust issues to address. Loved him talking to the Rev. Lots of action and drama, some people deserved worse than what they got but I know that doesn’t always happen unfortunately.
- Cass: Absolutely no self respect, I feel so bad for him. I am happy he was able to get people in his life that care for him and knows he deserves more. Love his connection with Fable <3. As the story goes on, he learns to respect himself more, but still prone to not making the best decisions.
- Mort: This book started and I honestly fucking hated him. Should Cass have communicated sooner, yeah. But in that environment being a hangaround and having him being so nasty and Cass having a bad past I see why. Mort has a lot more experience with life and was in the more dominant position and I don’t think he groveled enough TBH. I liked who he was in the second half much more.
- Favorite Moment: Mort & Whip at the bar towards the end LOL I am sooooooo ready for their book. I read some of their story on Patreon. I am starving for a full novel.
- World Building: Still loving it! I enjoyed the addition of Vice & Virtue. Characters have not changed as far as personality goes. Whip and Noose encounters are getting more vivid, it’s lovely, thank you so much.
- Favorite Side Character(s): The Reverend. I am dying. I need his story. This man is the G.O.A.T. “I need to start at the beginning.” “Yeah, that’s always a good place to start.” I placed my forearms on the table and told him how I first met Cass and what had happened that night. “Sounds hot.” The reverend sipped his coffee. “Did you at least join in?” “No.” Why had I even come here?
- Hardest Part: Learning about how in the beginning . Honestly, I think Mort should have whopped that guys assssssss. Idk, it just made me so mad.
”Despite every shitty thing I’ve said or done to you, you chose me, and I won’t ever let you regret it. I swear it on my life, Cass.” - Mort
Milestone Moments:
Noose Helps Cass <3:
Mort and Rev Talk:
The Truth About the First Night:
Rubble Talks Too Much:
Whip & Noose, Love It:
Cass Gets Got:
Mort Gets His Man:
Yes!:
Intimate Scenes:
I walked away from him, my life as I knew it crumbling around me. Cass was my one solace. - Mort
Side Characters:
Alan:, No Book Mentioned
Ben:, Gunner (The Smoky Vale Alliance #2)
Booker: Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Crowe:, Crowe’s Creed (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #5)
Dr. Collier: Bloom Part 1 & 2 (The Smoky Vale Alliance #3 & #4)
Fable: Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Grimm:, Biker Daddy, (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #1)
Gunner:, Gunner (The Smoky Vale Alliance #2)
Jamie:, Biker Daddy, (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #1)
Max:, Crowe’s Creed (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #5)
Miles: Miles High (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #4)
Noose:
Reverend:, No Book Mentioned
Rubble: Miles High (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #4)
Whip:
Zak: Fable’s Foes (Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale #2)
Minor Characters:
Dove: Bartender, topless, They/Them pronouns, Nonbinary
He scrambled to his feet and ran over to me. Of course, I caught him. I would always catch him. - Hollis
November 6, 2023
I really enjoyed the mortician maybe even just a little bit more than biker daddy.
The way that Mort realises his true feelings for Cass and tries to win him back after everything he caused him was beautiful and you can tell that they truly love each other.
There was never a moment where I was bored, the only down fall for me though would be how everybody kept interfering in their relationship would which was very annoying but that’s down to the characters.
The way that Mort realises his true feelings for Cass and tries to win him back after everything he caused him was beautiful and you can tell that they truly love each other.
There was never a moment where I was bored, the only down fall for me though would be how everybody kept interfering in their relationship would which was very annoying but that’s down to the characters.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2021
*4.5*
So happy to finally have Cass's story. He's been a secondary character from the start of the series and deserves someone to love him. I've been a big fan of this series from book one. Gianni writes gritty storylines with characters that occasionally cross the line of the law but you can't help but love them. There are trigger warnings in the author's note at the start that everyone should read.
Cass and Mort are at odds from the start, always missing their moment or getting in their own way of having the chance at something together. Cass's decision to get a job, needing more for himself than just being up for anything with the men at Smoky Vale MC, brings him joy but also some unwanted attention. Alongside this is a problem that the MC are having with a newcomer running drugs through the town, further complicated by Mort's brother being involved in some way. As he's always tried to keep his professional life separate from the MC, things get complicated quickly. Mort ends up fighting on three fronts - keeping his business safe, finding out who's causing trouble for the club, and ensuring that Cass is with him, fully understanding what that entails and that no one else can have him.
I enjoyed reading the way things played out for Cass and Mort as Cass learned that he could decide and do what he wanted for himself, rather than just not saying no to people and Mort had to face his past, learning to trust in someone else again. Mort's sense of family runs strong, wanting to do right by those he loves, whether blood or in the club, always doing his best to support and stand by his word. Cass is so sweet, so eager to be wanted and loved but maybe not always making the right choices. He definitely gets better at that with the support of his friends, Jamie and Fable, but he just wants someone to love him for him, and for that person to preferably to be Mort. There are some tough moments to read and some of the words used aren't my favourite but in the moment, it felt right for that character and situation.
Across the book there is family tensions, relationship drama, MC business bringing danger to their doorstep as well as Mort's family. There is heat, anger, fear and love that all combine to bring a great book in terms of plot and romance. I was drawn in from the start and was entertained all the way through. There are characters to love and those you hate who all make their own individual mark on each other. The Smoky Vale MC may not always be on the right side of the law but when it comes to those they love and doing what's right, there's no one else you'd want fighting on your side.
Definitely a recommended read, this book and the whole series. I love how the group of men and their friendships/relationships are progressing and look forward to whoever comes next!
I received an ARC via Gay Romance Reviews and am happily giving a review.
So happy to finally have Cass's story. He's been a secondary character from the start of the series and deserves someone to love him. I've been a big fan of this series from book one. Gianni writes gritty storylines with characters that occasionally cross the line of the law but you can't help but love them. There are trigger warnings in the author's note at the start that everyone should read.
Cass and Mort are at odds from the start, always missing their moment or getting in their own way of having the chance at something together. Cass's decision to get a job, needing more for himself than just being up for anything with the men at Smoky Vale MC, brings him joy but also some unwanted attention. Alongside this is a problem that the MC are having with a newcomer running drugs through the town, further complicated by Mort's brother being involved in some way. As he's always tried to keep his professional life separate from the MC, things get complicated quickly. Mort ends up fighting on three fronts - keeping his business safe, finding out who's causing trouble for the club, and ensuring that Cass is with him, fully understanding what that entails and that no one else can have him.
I enjoyed reading the way things played out for Cass and Mort as Cass learned that he could decide and do what he wanted for himself, rather than just not saying no to people and Mort had to face his past, learning to trust in someone else again. Mort's sense of family runs strong, wanting to do right by those he loves, whether blood or in the club, always doing his best to support and stand by his word. Cass is so sweet, so eager to be wanted and loved but maybe not always making the right choices. He definitely gets better at that with the support of his friends, Jamie and Fable, but he just wants someone to love him for him, and for that person to preferably to be Mort. There are some tough moments to read and some of the words used aren't my favourite but in the moment, it felt right for that character and situation.
Across the book there is family tensions, relationship drama, MC business bringing danger to their doorstep as well as Mort's family. There is heat, anger, fear and love that all combine to bring a great book in terms of plot and romance. I was drawn in from the start and was entertained all the way through. There are characters to love and those you hate who all make their own individual mark on each other. The Smoky Vale MC may not always be on the right side of the law but when it comes to those they love and doing what's right, there's no one else you'd want fighting on your side.
Definitely a recommended read, this book and the whole series. I love how the group of men and their friendships/relationships are progressing and look forward to whoever comes next!
I received an ARC via Gay Romance Reviews and am happily giving a review.
May 31, 2021
A Gritty Raw Biker and A Sweet Ginger
“The Mortician” is the third book, in the Sweet Vale Grimm Reapers Outlaw MC. This was the first book of this series I had read, and I had no problem following along. There is a transition in the beginning, where it got a little murky with a timeline of events, but nothing that took away from the story. I plan to go back and read the first two books, as I found Jamie and Fable to be bratty and sweet, and I want to read their stories.
This story revolves around Mort (The Mortician), a rough and tough Enforcer for the Grimm’s, and Cass, a young, sweet ginger. Cass was on his way to being a top ballet dancer, until his mom, a ballet teacher, passed away, and all his dreams came to a screeching halt. Mort’s real-life job, is where he got his nickname from, and he runs his family’s crematorium.
The attraction between Mort and Cass is evident from their first meeting, but due to some jealous interference, Mort decides Cass isn’t for him. However, he can’t seem to keep his hands off the sweet boy, even as he continues to tell himself his heart isn’t getting involved.
Cass is in love with Mort, and wants more than anything, to find his HEA, like his friends. He’ll take whatever attention Mort is willing to give him, even though Mort usually ends up hurting him, in some way. Words hurt, and Mort can wield his better than any weapon.
Cass is at first portrayed as a little on the slow side. The MC’s refer to him this way, especially in the beginning. Cass is not dumb. He is naïve, and too trusting, and lacks self-confidence, in everything except his ability to dance. Once he starts getting a backbone, his smarts come out, he is however still super naïve, which tends to get him in trouble.
I loved reading about these two vastly different men, revealing their feelings for each other, and working through their issues. They both have emotional scars and trauma, but I felt they belonged together from the beginning.
The book is long, at 120+ words, but the pace moves along, with plenty of action, and steamy scenes. It kept me engaged from the first page, until the last. The heat factor is high, and I loved how Cass was never afraid to admit what he liked, or to ask for what he wanted.
Heed the triggers the author has put into place. This is a story of outlaw MC’s, and the men are written that way. They do illegal things, they go after anyone who hurts their own, and they don’t apologize for it. It’s gritty and raw and real. Another great new series to add to my TBR pile.
“The Mortician” is the third book, in the Sweet Vale Grimm Reapers Outlaw MC. This was the first book of this series I had read, and I had no problem following along. There is a transition in the beginning, where it got a little murky with a timeline of events, but nothing that took away from the story. I plan to go back and read the first two books, as I found Jamie and Fable to be bratty and sweet, and I want to read their stories.
This story revolves around Mort (The Mortician), a rough and tough Enforcer for the Grimm’s, and Cass, a young, sweet ginger. Cass was on his way to being a top ballet dancer, until his mom, a ballet teacher, passed away, and all his dreams came to a screeching halt. Mort’s real-life job, is where he got his nickname from, and he runs his family’s crematorium.
The attraction between Mort and Cass is evident from their first meeting, but due to some jealous interference, Mort decides Cass isn’t for him. However, he can’t seem to keep his hands off the sweet boy, even as he continues to tell himself his heart isn’t getting involved.
Cass is in love with Mort, and wants more than anything, to find his HEA, like his friends. He’ll take whatever attention Mort is willing to give him, even though Mort usually ends up hurting him, in some way. Words hurt, and Mort can wield his better than any weapon.
Cass is at first portrayed as a little on the slow side. The MC’s refer to him this way, especially in the beginning. Cass is not dumb. He is naïve, and too trusting, and lacks self-confidence, in everything except his ability to dance. Once he starts getting a backbone, his smarts come out, he is however still super naïve, which tends to get him in trouble.
I loved reading about these two vastly different men, revealing their feelings for each other, and working through their issues. They both have emotional scars and trauma, but I felt they belonged together from the beginning.
The book is long, at 120+ words, but the pace moves along, with plenty of action, and steamy scenes. It kept me engaged from the first page, until the last. The heat factor is high, and I loved how Cass was never afraid to admit what he liked, or to ask for what he wanted.
Heed the triggers the author has put into place. This is a story of outlaw MC’s, and the men are written that way. They do illegal things, they go after anyone who hurts their own, and they don’t apologize for it. It’s gritty and raw and real. Another great new series to add to my TBR pile.
June 1, 2021
If you like morally ambiguous, dynamic, questionable, dark, action-oriented men in a motorcycle club, this book is right up your alley. The Reapers, as you’ve seen in the prior books, have their hands in a bit of everything, and it’s all on page in superb detail.
This book focuses on Mort – the Mortician – the guy who owns the crematorium that, occasionally, helps gets rid of questionable corpses. He’s had a bad run with examples of relationships. His mom cheating on his dad, his wife cheating on him… he refuses to put himself in a position where he could be cheated on again. So why is he so addicted to Cass, a hang-around who doesn’t seem to have any hesitation in sleeping with anyone who’s interested in him?
Mort’s journey is brilliant. He starts off as super judgmental. Honestly, no one you really want in a romance book. But from shaming Cass for his actions, he grows a lot until he understands it’s not Cass’ actions he’s judging, but instead his own weaknesses. It takes a lot, but he turns into such a wonderful character.
Cass has a rough history, and needs to find his self-worth. His journey is more organic… almost an evolution rather than an “ah-hah” realization. But he’s a wonderful young man who just needs to know his value is more than his appeal to others.
With the full cast of wonderful side characters, and the two super strong main characters, this book was a pleasure to read and a great addition to the Reapers MC world.
This book focuses on Mort – the Mortician – the guy who owns the crematorium that, occasionally, helps gets rid of questionable corpses. He’s had a bad run with examples of relationships. His mom cheating on his dad, his wife cheating on him… he refuses to put himself in a position where he could be cheated on again. So why is he so addicted to Cass, a hang-around who doesn’t seem to have any hesitation in sleeping with anyone who’s interested in him?
Mort’s journey is brilliant. He starts off as super judgmental. Honestly, no one you really want in a romance book. But from shaming Cass for his actions, he grows a lot until he understands it’s not Cass’ actions he’s judging, but instead his own weaknesses. It takes a lot, but he turns into such a wonderful character.
Cass has a rough history, and needs to find his self-worth. His journey is more organic… almost an evolution rather than an “ah-hah” realization. But he’s a wonderful young man who just needs to know his value is more than his appeal to others.
With the full cast of wonderful side characters, and the two super strong main characters, this book was a pleasure to read and a great addition to the Reapers MC world.
May 29, 2021
The Mortician by Gianni Holmes is the 3rd book in the Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale. In this story we continue to learn about how the Grimm Reapers motorcycle club functions and how they live their own lives that often go against the law. It focuses on the Mortician (Mort) who got his name from running a crematory, and Cass, a young man who lives with and puts out for the Reapers. They are attracted to each other but a deliberate misunderstanding with a bar tender when they meet causes Mort to be alienated from Cass. This continues until the attraction becomes too much and the finally pledge to be loyal to each other. Mort is the Enforcer for the club so he has to do its dirty work when asked and this often has repercussions that play into the story. He also has some relatives that are doing things to hurt him and in return the Reapers. Cass has his own problems stemming from abuse. He becomes a stripper because he loves dancing but the owner wants him and that also causes problems in their relationship. All of this concludes in an explosive ending that you can’t put down until you find out what happens. This book is gritty and contains a lot of graphic violence, but this is all a part of the Grim Reapers’ world. The love scenes are hot but also sometimes include several people/couples at the same time. Again, this is normal for this motorcycle club. The love story slowly develops as both men break down their barriers and learn to love and be faithful to each other with the help of their friends and in Mort’s case being pushed by the leaders of the club. You see so much loyalty among all of them that you can understand why they do what they do. I also liked reading about the characters from the previous books and finding out what they are up to. If you enjoy the kind of action that I have described you will really like this book. It took me a while to get into the stories because I wasn’t sure about the violence, but once I did I couldn’t stop reading them because I became so invested in the characters and their lives.
May 30, 2021
The Mortician is the third book in the The Grimm Tales of Smoky Vale serie (and the first in this series that I've read🙈) by Gianni Holmes. I liked their story but I had to skip some parts, had nothing to do with the writing but because of sex scènes between the main character and other people. I don't like that in my books. I want it only between the main characters after their first meeting in the story (I don't even like it when it's only briefly mentioned so it's totally a me problem). That being said the rest of the story was really good and very well written as always by Gianni. I love this authors writing so much. So if you do like that and you love age gap biker romance stories this book is totally for you
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 11, 2021
I really kind of wanted to smack Mort around. He missed all the important stuff of Cass. All he saw was Cass being Cass and enjoying himself, and he was happy to take advantage of that. But, he didn't always actually see what was going on inside Cass. He hurt Cass because of that, and it made me mad, because Cass is really just such a sweetheart.
October 13, 2021
Love this😍😍😍
February 28, 2022
didn't enjoy this as much as the first two in the series. Mort had his sweet moments but it took me more than half the book to really care about the couple
May 31, 2021
This is the 3rd book in the great series. You read it as a stand alone but will definitely be more enjoyable if you read the other 2 books first. We get glimpses of Cass and Mort in the other books but always a mystery of what is really happening. And now we get the full story and wow, what an emotional roller coaster. Cass is so sweet even after everything he suffered (it is mentioned in the story but does not happen during the story). Mort treats Cass unfairly due to his own insecurities. He deserved to be slapped a couple of times. But he does redeem himself as the story progresses, deserving all the love and patience Cass had for him. And of course there's also action, suspense, and humor to make it even more addicting. And now I need the Twin's story...please
May 16, 2023
That was a bit disappointing to be honest. The characters were fine, but nothing more, and the plot wasn’t interesting until the fifty percent mark. I don’t really know what else to say about this book, so two stars it is.
January 22, 2024
3.5* and I feel quite disappointed with the way the story turned out.
I could not wait to read Mort/Cass story. They were so intriguing in the previous two books and here, at the beginning, I was happy with Cass's development and the fact he was not such a pushover. However, there was lots of angst between and outside the couplethat I struggled with the story actually developing realistically.
Firstly, it took quite some time for the guys to talk. And I hate scenes "I should tell him what the problem is but now is not the time" when the time is actually right. The angst seemed artificial at times. And I hated one of the previous MCs too much because of his behavior. Yep, I'm talking about Jamie. In the first half, whenever he appeared I just wanted to skip those scenes. He was so pushy, rude, and treating Cass like a complete idiot that is not capable of thinking for himself. The fact he even answered Cass's phone without asking - that is a breach of privacy I did not expect. And it felt really out of character for him.
The Kane storyline just left a bad taste in my mouth. All the build up, all the villanous behavior for the author to throw at us a "reason"? And I did not give a damn about his reasons. It was inexcusable. And I cannot believe that Cass would forgive him. In the end, it makes him a really flat character... the pushover he used to be.
There were a couple of OTT moments, really unnecessary drama, and the last conversation? I think that all the topics they discussed deserved their own time and not be crammed into a couple of pages.
I also wish this series was darker as a whole. The trauma is glossed over, with euphemisms or avoiding talking about abuse/assault openly. In my eyes, it just makes everything less serious.
My final rating of The Grimm Tales of the Smoky Vale (from most to least liked):
#1 Crowe's Creed - my review
#2 Biker Daddy - my review
#3 Fable's Foes - my review
#4 Miles High - my review
#5 The Mortician - my review
I could not wait to read Mort/Cass story. They were so intriguing in the previous two books and here, at the beginning, I was happy with Cass's development and the fact he was not such a pushover. However, there was lots of angst between and outside the couplethat I struggled with the story actually developing realistically.
Firstly, it took quite some time for the guys to talk. And I hate scenes "I should tell him what the problem is but now is not the time" when the time is actually right. The angst seemed artificial at times. And I hated one of the previous MCs too much because of his behavior. Yep, I'm talking about Jamie. In the first half, whenever he appeared I just wanted to skip those scenes. He was so pushy, rude, and treating Cass like a complete idiot that is not capable of thinking for himself. The fact he even answered Cass's phone without asking - that is a breach of privacy I did not expect. And it felt really out of character for him.
The Kane storyline just left a bad taste in my mouth. All the build up, all the villanous behavior for the author to throw at us a "reason"? And I did not give a damn about his reasons. It was inexcusable. And I cannot believe that Cass would forgive him. In the end, it makes him a really flat character... the pushover he used to be.
There were a couple of OTT moments, really unnecessary drama, and the last conversation? I think that all the topics they discussed deserved their own time and not be crammed into a couple of pages.
I also wish this series was darker as a whole. The trauma is glossed over, with euphemisms or avoiding talking about abuse/assault openly. In my eyes, it just makes everything less serious.
My final rating of The Grimm Tales of the Smoky Vale (from most to least liked):
#1 Crowe's Creed - my review
#2 Biker Daddy - my review
#3 Fable's Foes - my review
#4 Miles High - my review
#5 The Mortician - my review
June 12, 2021
This biker romance had all the action, adventure, and steamy moments I was hoping for!
I wasn't sure I liked Mort when this story started, but he grew on me as I learned more about him. His whole mindset of not wanting a partner who engaged in lots of casual sex was really offputting, and I hated the way he treated Cass at the beginning. Understanding his trust issues and hangups didn't excuse his behavior, but it did give me hope that things could be different. I was so proud of Cass for drawing a line when the hot-and-cold behavior went too far, and the way his friends unconditionally supported him warmed my heart. Jamie, Fable, and Cass had such a wonderful friendship, and I loved the "boys club" support network they formed. It was easier to deal with Mort's ups and downs when I knew Cass had someone in his court, and it was a ton of fun to see what mischief the boys got up to in their spare time.
I knew Mort had a soft spot for Cass, but seeing the way he doted on his niece made me sure that he was a good man at heart. Mort was such a softie when it came to Jessie, and it was so freaking adorable to see him as a father figure. When Mort finally worked through the last of his baggage and pursued Cass for real, that same big heart convinced me there was no way these two weren't meant for each other. Their steamy moments had always been hot as heck, but it was the times they were sweet to each other that really lit me up.
When Mort's family and business started to implode, it was Cass who provided peace and reassurance to Mort. There was something so satisfying about the way Mort never once doubted Cass's loyalty, and seeing Mort take vengeance on the ones who threatened his loved ones was thrilling. I'll admit that I wasn't expecting the threats to get so deadly, but I knew the MC members could handle anything that came their way. Even Cass stepped in to provide as much help as he could, and even though I wish he hadn't sacrificed himself it was sweet to see how much he cared. After going through so much, it would have been easy for Cass and Mort to part ways, but if anything their bond felt stronger in the aftermath. I was so happy to see them take the next steps in their relationship, and there's no doubt in my mind that these two wil be together for life.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
I wasn't sure I liked Mort when this story started, but he grew on me as I learned more about him. His whole mindset of not wanting a partner who engaged in lots of casual sex was really offputting, and I hated the way he treated Cass at the beginning. Understanding his trust issues and hangups didn't excuse his behavior, but it did give me hope that things could be different. I was so proud of Cass for drawing a line when the hot-and-cold behavior went too far, and the way his friends unconditionally supported him warmed my heart. Jamie, Fable, and Cass had such a wonderful friendship, and I loved the "boys club" support network they formed. It was easier to deal with Mort's ups and downs when I knew Cass had someone in his court, and it was a ton of fun to see what mischief the boys got up to in their spare time.
I knew Mort had a soft spot for Cass, but seeing the way he doted on his niece made me sure that he was a good man at heart. Mort was such a softie when it came to Jessie, and it was so freaking adorable to see him as a father figure. When Mort finally worked through the last of his baggage and pursued Cass for real, that same big heart convinced me there was no way these two weren't meant for each other. Their steamy moments had always been hot as heck, but it was the times they were sweet to each other that really lit me up.
When Mort's family and business started to implode, it was Cass who provided peace and reassurance to Mort. There was something so satisfying about the way Mort never once doubted Cass's loyalty, and seeing Mort take vengeance on the ones who threatened his loved ones was thrilling. I'll admit that I wasn't expecting the threats to get so deadly, but I knew the MC members could handle anything that came their way. Even Cass stepped in to provide as much help as he could, and even though I wish he hadn't sacrificed himself it was sweet to see how much he cared. After going through so much, it would have been easy for Cass and Mort to part ways, but if anything their bond felt stronger in the aftermath. I was so happy to see them take the next steps in their relationship, and there's no doubt in my mind that these two wil be together for life.
**I voluntarily read an ARC of this book. This review expresses my honest thoughts and opinions.
June 3, 2021
3.5 Stars
I really enjoyed the previous books in this series. This one fell a bit short of my expectations. I finished the book but kept checking the amount left because even though I wanted to know what happened, I never really good hooked into the book.
There were multiple major subplots occurring at once. This made the book excessively long. I felt that the author was trying to do too much with the story when there were already enough issues to address if only the relationship and one other issue were involved. (It is challenging to explain this well without any spoilers.)
Also, even knowing there would be sex shaming, I think I failed to comprehend the actual level and pervasiveness of this issue. I wavered between being angry at the character for doing it and then being frustrated with the author for it never ending. Repetitive constant angst in a story really pulls me out of the experience as a reader.
There were a few weird twists that left me scratching my head. It kind of felt like a “kitchen sink” approach at times - tossing different types of situations and character traits into the story so there was something for everyone. It just ended up making me feel a bit confused about the various personalities and feeling generally unsatisfied as a reader. I would prefer a simpler story to be really well done than a story that tries to do too much and doesn’t quite hit the mark.
I wish I could give this a 3.5. I have spent a few days wavering between a 3 and 4 star review. The reason for the four is that the technical writing (grammar, spelling, etc) is solid and characters were well done. It was the approach to the details of the story and issues with the MC’s relationship / individual personalities that left me wishing for more.
I really enjoyed the previous books in this series. This one fell a bit short of my expectations. I finished the book but kept checking the amount left because even though I wanted to know what happened, I never really good hooked into the book.
There were multiple major subplots occurring at once. This made the book excessively long. I felt that the author was trying to do too much with the story when there were already enough issues to address if only the relationship and one other issue were involved. (It is challenging to explain this well without any spoilers.)
Also, even knowing there would be sex shaming, I think I failed to comprehend the actual level and pervasiveness of this issue. I wavered between being angry at the character for doing it and then being frustrated with the author for it never ending. Repetitive constant angst in a story really pulls me out of the experience as a reader.
There were a few weird twists that left me scratching my head. It kind of felt like a “kitchen sink” approach at times - tossing different types of situations and character traits into the story so there was something for everyone. It just ended up making me feel a bit confused about the various personalities and feeling generally unsatisfied as a reader. I would prefer a simpler story to be really well done than a story that tries to do too much and doesn’t quite hit the mark.
I wish I could give this a 3.5. I have spent a few days wavering between a 3 and 4 star review. The reason for the four is that the technical writing (grammar, spelling, etc) is solid and characters were well done. It was the approach to the details of the story and issues with the MC’s relationship / individual personalities that left me wishing for more.
July 10, 2023
I absolutely LOVE this author's writing and have devoured two LONG books, and a novella, in the last two days. She is immensely talented and has a way of making every character's point of view valid and thought provoking. Each character is flawed and, with a lesser author, you would just dismiss them or flat-out side with an opposing view, but she always makes you empathetic to them and you ride things out and see where the story takes you.
Cass took some getting used to. I had zero interest in reading his book, given his role in the previous book, and he didn't get off to a great start in this one. I wasn't with the whole promiscuity thing in the beginning, but I stuck with it and got to understand him, and love him and Mort together. Mort was fully justified in the way he felt, but I loved that he came around. Having said all that, this book was too long. At 75% I was ready to move on to Rubble and Miles. At 84% I was flat out skimming and the whole situation with Cass and Kane literally made no sense at all. It was totally unnecessary, and I thought Cass was much smarter than that. And then after all of that, we didn't even get any closure with Kane. This was a 4.5 star book that got reduced to 3.75ish for reasons that were largely avoidable.
Still, I LOVE this series! I love the couples. Fable and his Daddies are still my favorite. I still stand by my decision to abandon Jamie's book (I like him the least) and, truly author, if I wanted to read about Jamie topping Grimm in every book, I would have read their book! Please spare us including this in every single story.
On to the next one!
3.75
Cass took some getting used to. I had zero interest in reading his book, given his role in the previous book, and he didn't get off to a great start in this one. I wasn't with the whole promiscuity thing in the beginning, but I stuck with it and got to understand him, and love him and Mort together. Mort was fully justified in the way he felt, but I loved that he came around. Having said all that, this book was too long. At 75% I was ready to move on to Rubble and Miles. At 84% I was flat out skimming and the whole situation with Cass and Kane literally made no sense at all. It was totally unnecessary, and I thought Cass was much smarter than that. And then after all of that, we didn't even get any closure with Kane. This was a 4.5 star book that got reduced to 3.75ish for reasons that were largely avoidable.
Still, I LOVE this series! I love the couples. Fable and his Daddies are still my favorite. I still stand by my decision to abandon Jamie's book (I like him the least) and, truly author, if I wanted to read about Jamie topping Grimm in every book, I would have read their book! Please spare us including this in every single story.
On to the next one!
3.75
June 11, 2021
It was nice to see Cass and Mort fleshed out into more 3-dimensional characters, instead of just the sex-crazed, no-boundaries club bicycle and grumpy, horny guy that Cass and Mort seemed to be in Fable's Foes.
The technical writing, as always, was tight and error-free, but the content of the story was lacking to me. Not because there wasn't a story there, but because there was too much. I mean, seriously, on how many fronts do Mort and Cass have to fight? Mort's druggie Judas of a brother, the drug trade with lingering ties to the crew that stole Jamie and Fable in book 2, and if that weren't enough, let's throw in Cass's slimy boss at the strip club. Overkill, IMO.
And speaking of Cass's slimy boss, after everything Cass learns about him after what happened to him, why in HELL is he even considering being nice to him at the end? Cancer doesn't make someone who has been nothing but an unrepentant douchebag suddenly worthy of compassion. Okay, maybe don't kill him like he deserves, but hospice visits? Come. On.
And maybe I'm a cold-hearted bitch, but when I'm reading about a one-percenter motorcycle club and members who have lots of raunchy sex, the last thing I'm interested in is hearing about the desire to make babies.
It was nice to see Booker and Fable together, but there wasn't enough Zac. Jamie is still a brat who doesn't get spanked nearly enough. Where the hell did Miles and Rubble disappear to? I can't wait to read their story next, but it's becoming torture to wait on the twins' story. I *need* that one!
The technical writing, as always, was tight and error-free, but the content of the story was lacking to me. Not because there wasn't a story there, but because there was too much. I mean, seriously, on how many fronts do Mort and Cass have to fight? Mort's druggie Judas of a brother, the drug trade with lingering ties to the crew that stole Jamie and Fable in book 2, and if that weren't enough, let's throw in Cass's slimy boss at the strip club. Overkill, IMO.
And speaking of Cass's slimy boss, after everything Cass learns about him after what happened to him, why in HELL is he even considering being nice to him at the end? Cancer doesn't make someone who has been nothing but an unrepentant douchebag suddenly worthy of compassion. Okay, maybe don't kill him like he deserves, but hospice visits? Come. On.
And maybe I'm a cold-hearted bitch, but when I'm reading about a one-percenter motorcycle club and members who have lots of raunchy sex, the last thing I'm interested in is hearing about the desire to make babies.
It was nice to see Booker and Fable together, but there wasn't enough Zac. Jamie is still a brat who doesn't get spanked nearly enough. Where the hell did Miles and Rubble disappear to? I can't wait to read their story next, but it's becoming torture to wait on the twins' story. I *need* that one!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 28, 2021
A light and fluffy love story this is not, nor is it entirely gritty and angsty...it's somewhere in between, and it's terrific. Love-starved dancer Cass and his grumpy should-be biker boyfriend Mort are imperfect men who deserve love and want each other, if only Cass believed himself worthy enough and Mort got over past hurts and out of his own way.
Their on/off sort-of-relationship had me longing for their happiness from the first chapter, and thankfully Mort admitting his true feelings to Cass doesn't take the whole book. Their HEA journey is a bumpy, messy, tender, smokin' hot, emotional, gut-clenching and heart-squeezing ride - with some external dangers and suspense that turned everything up a notch (these are rough and tumble bikers, not boy scouts on motorcycles). I also really enjoyed the found family aspect with the tight friendships between Cass, Fable and Jamie, and with Mort and his MC brothers.
This was my first cruise through Smoky Vale, and while I may have gotten a bit more out of the story's beginning had I read the previous books first, it still works as a standalone. It's a world I want to revisit. I received a reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
Their on/off sort-of-relationship had me longing for their happiness from the first chapter, and thankfully Mort admitting his true feelings to Cass doesn't take the whole book. Their HEA journey is a bumpy, messy, tender, smokin' hot, emotional, gut-clenching and heart-squeezing ride - with some external dangers and suspense that turned everything up a notch (these are rough and tumble bikers, not boy scouts on motorcycles). I also really enjoyed the found family aspect with the tight friendships between Cass, Fable and Jamie, and with Mort and his MC brothers.
This was my first cruise through Smoky Vale, and while I may have gotten a bit more out of the story's beginning had I read the previous books first, it still works as a standalone. It's a world I want to revisit. I received a reading e-copy of this book and have left this honest review voluntarily. (Also read in KU.)
June 11, 2021
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I loved Mort/Hollis’ emotional growth & healing throughout the book. He had some serious and justifiable issues with {what he saw as} Cass’ slu++y behavior.
Kane … !?! I was extremely upset & disappointed over the development of Kane’s character. He seemed so promising, like an actual decent human being. IMO, that was a an unnecessary addition to the story.
Lots of grammatical & editorial errors
I feel like there should have been more closure on Cass’ stepfather before the end of this story. Between Cass not contacting Kane, Randy still floating around Smoky Vale, and nothing being done regarding a$$hole stepfather, the story just feels unfinished.
I also felt that the character development of Cass was a bit improbable. I can understand an emotional and/or character strengthening, but that’s not all that happened. In the beginning of the book Cass was almost simple minded, not very bright, but kind and honest. By the end of the book he seems to have not only grown emotionally, but also intellectually as well. It was like reading about a completely different character.
I loved Mort/Hollis’ emotional growth & healing throughout the book. He had some serious and justifiable issues with {what he saw as} Cass’ slu++y behavior.
Kane … !?! I was extremely upset & disappointed over the development of Kane’s character. He seemed so promising, like an actual decent human being. IMO, that was a an unnecessary addition to the story.
Lots of grammatical & editorial errors
I feel like there should have been more closure on Cass’ stepfather before the end of this story. Between Cass not contacting Kane, Randy still floating around Smoky Vale, and nothing being done regarding a$$hole stepfather, the story just feels unfinished.
I also felt that the character development of Cass was a bit improbable. I can understand an emotional and/or character strengthening, but that’s not all that happened. In the beginning of the book Cass was almost simple minded, not very bright, but kind and honest. By the end of the book he seems to have not only grown emotionally, but also intellectually as well. It was like reading about a completely different character.
May 30, 2021
Each has had heart break but both Mort and Cassie are looking for their true one. Cass's biggest flaw is his lack of confidence in himself. Jamie keeps pointing out this flaw, but Cass isn't really hearing him. Fable comes across with more sense of warm advice but Cass has such low self-esteem he has a hard time listening to either of his friends. The members snide remarks hurt Cass so much. He leaves himself open for all the members but only wants Mort to see him for himself. Whereas Mort needs affirmation that what Cass offers isn't something for the here and now but for Mort's forever. Mort is in a turmoil regarding Cass, "My problem is that I don't want to want to you, but I don't want anyone else to have you either." In the end Cass gives Mort the following: "And I'll save myself for only you." The bikers can and are crude, but they are also protective of those in their fold. An intense but satisfying read for me. This was an ARC sent to me via GRR and is willingly being reviewed.
June 13, 2021
What a ride!
Mort and Cass both have pasts, that make it difficult for them to trust the other one and to finally commit to a relationship. Even though they have been longing for each other for a while, it takes them some time to find out that they both want this and are ready for a monogamous relationship.
The Grimm Reapers MC are no angels and there are parts of this story that are graphic and dark, and I really wanted to slap some of the men for their continuing shaming of Cass. I was so happy that Mort finally stepped up and claimed him and he turned out to be the sweetest man to his Cass.
So many things happen in this book, almost too much, but it all fits the story so well. I loved the friendship Cass has with Jamie and Fable and the way Grimm pushed Mort to realize his feelings for Cass. There’s plenty of delicious heat too, along with wonderful sweetness and a good dose of angst (mostly in the beginning of the book).
I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
Mort and Cass both have pasts, that make it difficult for them to trust the other one and to finally commit to a relationship. Even though they have been longing for each other for a while, it takes them some time to find out that they both want this and are ready for a monogamous relationship.
The Grimm Reapers MC are no angels and there are parts of this story that are graphic and dark, and I really wanted to slap some of the men for their continuing shaming of Cass. I was so happy that Mort finally stepped up and claimed him and he turned out to be the sweetest man to his Cass.
So many things happen in this book, almost too much, but it all fits the story so well. I loved the friendship Cass has with Jamie and Fable and the way Grimm pushed Mort to realize his feelings for Cass. There’s plenty of delicious heat too, along with wonderful sweetness and a good dose of angst (mostly in the beginning of the book).
I highly recommend this book and the entire series.
September 14, 2021
I love this series!
This has more than 400 pages and I wasn't bored for a single one of those.
Mort and Cass are a great couple. Somehow they are both so sweet and kind and yet so very imperfect characters, and both balance each other well. They feel so very real to me.
Also this still manages to integrate other characters well into the story, both inside the MC and out. I love when a book manages to make me feel part of a whole life and plentiful backstory and not just one single aspect within someone's story.
And plotwise there is a lot of stuff happening on different fronts, some of that connected to each other, some independent, some focused on the MC and some on Cass' and Mort's personal life.
It's hard to find a balance how many plot elements you can keep track of. I think this was mostly handled well, but one or two aspects may have fallen by the wayside or don't feel quite finished towards the end. Maybe some will be picked back up in the next book.
I'm certainly down for more of these guys!
This has more than 400 pages and I wasn't bored for a single one of those.
Mort and Cass are a great couple. Somehow they are both so sweet and kind and yet so very imperfect characters, and both balance each other well. They feel so very real to me.
Also this still manages to integrate other characters well into the story, both inside the MC and out. I love when a book manages to make me feel part of a whole life and plentiful backstory and not just one single aspect within someone's story.
And plotwise there is a lot of stuff happening on different fronts, some of that connected to each other, some independent, some focused on the MC and some on Cass' and Mort's personal life.
It's hard to find a balance how many plot elements you can keep track of. I think this was mostly handled well, but one or two aspects may have fallen by the wayside or don't feel quite finished towards the end. Maybe some will be picked back up in the next book.
I'm certainly down for more of these guys!
May 31, 2021
Sigh... Mort and Cass broke my heart then put it back together again.
These two... sigh... a book about an MC like this Gould not be so unbelievably sweet. Don’t get me wrong this series is gritty (this is not a sweet and cuddly MC) but the relationship between Mort and Cass, once they finally see each other, was so gently loving. Despite being very different, Mort and Cass were both vulnerable and desperately trying to protect themselves from more pain. When Mort finally understands and allows himself to be vulnerable it was just so lovely to see them together. They were also on fire! I absolutely love some smoking chemistry when combined with sweetness. We also got to see all our favourite characters again which was lovely. These boys have such a lovely, close, supportive relationship with each other. It’s so nice to see and really adds to the book as a whole. I loved this instalment and am giddy with the idea of the next book (so much awesomeness!).
These two... sigh... a book about an MC like this Gould not be so unbelievably sweet. Don’t get me wrong this series is gritty (this is not a sweet and cuddly MC) but the relationship between Mort and Cass, once they finally see each other, was so gently loving. Despite being very different, Mort and Cass were both vulnerable and desperately trying to protect themselves from more pain. When Mort finally understands and allows himself to be vulnerable it was just so lovely to see them together. They were also on fire! I absolutely love some smoking chemistry when combined with sweetness. We also got to see all our favourite characters again which was lovely. These boys have such a lovely, close, supportive relationship with each other. It’s so nice to see and really adds to the book as a whole. I loved this instalment and am giddy with the idea of the next book (so much awesomeness!).
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