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Shielded Hearts #6
Unforgivable
No one ever claimed it would be easy.
Running away from his messy divorce did not bring Ira Fragale the peace he sought. If he's going to get his life together, he needs to pull up his big-boy pants and take care of business. He's been hiding out in Skagit, licking his wounds, for two years now. Keeping his head down, except for the trail of twinks he's left behind. Something's gotta give.
Bartending at the Loft is easy, and Cameron McCulloch likes the friendships he's developed since his family rejected him, but he wants more. To get that, Cam needs to knock Ira off the pedestal he's placed him on. Ira's older, but that doesn't mean he has any clearer handle on life and the universe than Cam. Cam needs to focus on his own needs and forget about Ira, but he can't.
Ira didn't choose Skagit at random; decades-old events set him on the path he is on today. The mystery of his father's murder may never be solved, but Ira would like to lay his spirit to rest.
None of this explains why Cameron is suddenly the target of a series of hate crimes. The small town of Skagit has its share of trouble, but someone has it in for the LGBTQ community, and Cameron is directly in their crosshairs.
HEA
18+
MM Romance
Running away from his messy divorce did not bring Ira Fragale the peace he sought. If he's going to get his life together, he needs to pull up his big-boy pants and take care of business. He's been hiding out in Skagit, licking his wounds, for two years now. Keeping his head down, except for the trail of twinks he's left behind. Something's gotta give.
Bartending at the Loft is easy, and Cameron McCulloch likes the friendships he's developed since his family rejected him, but he wants more. To get that, Cam needs to knock Ira off the pedestal he's placed him on. Ira's older, but that doesn't mean he has any clearer handle on life and the universe than Cam. Cam needs to focus on his own needs and forget about Ira, but he can't.
Ira didn't choose Skagit at random; decades-old events set him on the path he is on today. The mystery of his father's murder may never be solved, but Ira would like to lay his spirit to rest.
None of this explains why Cameron is suddenly the target of a series of hate crimes. The small town of Skagit has its share of trouble, but someone has it in for the LGBTQ community, and Cameron is directly in their crosshairs.
HEA
18+
MM Romance
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 18, 2018
109 people are currently reading
148 people want to read
About the author
Elle Keaton
52 books546 followersElle Keaton is a writer, avid reader, and amateur cat-wrangler. Her love of romance novels has led her to a life of creating her own happy ever afters. She is the author of the best selling series' Shielded Hearts and Veiled Intentions. Keaton hails from the Pacific Northwest, where she lives with her husband and cats.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
October 1, 2018
***3.5 Stars***
Not my favorite in this series, which I blame on the fact that Cam is only two years older than Ira's son and I didn't really feel their connection. Yeah, don't judge me, I'm old-fashioned that way. But it was still great to be back in my second hometown. 😊❤
Not my favorite in this series, which I blame on the fact that Cam is only two years older than Ira's son and I didn't really feel their connection. Yeah, don't judge me, I'm old-fashioned that way. But it was still great to be back in my second hometown. 😊❤
September 3, 2022
We met Ira in the beginning. A man in his 40's that is divorced with a son. Ira's ex-wife took the young son with her when she stormed out the house and Ira ran as far away as he could get which turned out to be Skagit, Washington. Now we meet Cameron (Cam) who bartends at The Loft. This setting reoccurs in most all of the books in this series along with a local coffee shop. It's like coming home to familiar places. There's not as much mystery in this one as there has been in the others in this series, but there are questions that need to be answered like who could be targeting Cam and leaving disturbing homophobic notes outside his door and then trashing his apartment. The person that had been attacking him previously is under arrest for assault, so it can't be him. I thought Cam took this latest occurrence way to lightly knowing that it had to be someone else. Ira and Cameron were destined to get together in spite of the 20-year age difference and that Ira's son was the same age as Cam. I liked that Ira had some of his major past issues put to rest and that he found a hopeful future with Cam. The two characters of Ira and Cameron kept me intrigued and happy all through their story.
June 1, 2023
Reread 2023
Still enjoyed this one. I loved Cameron and his personality, and grumpy Ira was a hit too.
I enjoyed that once they got together they stuck together
Good
3.75 stars
I really enjoyed this one. It’s not perfect but it sucked me right in.
I liked grumpy Ira from previous books so it was nice to see a bit more from him. There were still questions not answered like how Ira was a translator for the kids in a previous book but no mention here of him knowing a second language.
Cameron was a great character. I enjoyed watching him get his bearings and start to make a life for himself. His parents deserve to grow old alone for what they did.
Watching them get together and navigate a life together was fun.
Looking forward to continuing the series
Still enjoyed this one. I loved Cameron and his personality, and grumpy Ira was a hit too.
I enjoyed that once they got together they stuck together
Good
3.75 stars
I really enjoyed this one. It’s not perfect but it sucked me right in.
I liked grumpy Ira from previous books so it was nice to see a bit more from him. There were still questions not answered like how Ira was a translator for the kids in a previous book but no mention here of him knowing a second language.
Cameron was a great character. I enjoyed watching him get his bearings and start to make a life for himself. His parents deserve to grow old alone for what they did.
Watching them get together and navigate a life together was fun.
Looking forward to continuing the series
May 30, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.
4.5 stars
I’ve been with the Accidental Roots series from the beginning and I’ve really enjoyed them. Elle Keaton has written multi-dimensional, believable, interesting characters that stayed with me even after I finished the books. They’re full of mystery and action, as well as couples who are romantic and sexy. Unforgivable is no different, and it’s a perfect addition to the series.
Ira and Cameron were great: well fleshed out and well written. We get a real feel for what’s happening in their heads and hearts. Ira is suffering with shame, anger, and sorrow from losing his wife and son. Meanwhile, Cam can’t get over a feeling of abandonment after his deeply religious parents kicked him out as soon as he was legal because he was gay. Yes, he’s made some good friends and has a decent job. He just wants more…college, a partner who will love him, and a place to call his own. I found both men to be sympathetic without being overwhelmed. I wanted to comfort them. I do admit I wasn’t terribly fond of Ira at the beginning. He was surly and rude, and not just to Cam. Of course, as the story moves along, I was able to see why he acted that way. I really liked how he grew as a person, and once he broke through his barriers, how loving and caring he became.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
4.5 stars
I’ve been with the Accidental Roots series from the beginning and I’ve really enjoyed them. Elle Keaton has written multi-dimensional, believable, interesting characters that stayed with me even after I finished the books. They’re full of mystery and action, as well as couples who are romantic and sexy. Unforgivable is no different, and it’s a perfect addition to the series.
Ira and Cameron were great: well fleshed out and well written. We get a real feel for what’s happening in their heads and hearts. Ira is suffering with shame, anger, and sorrow from losing his wife and son. Meanwhile, Cam can’t get over a feeling of abandonment after his deeply religious parents kicked him out as soon as he was legal because he was gay. Yes, he’s made some good friends and has a decent job. He just wants more…college, a partner who will love him, and a place to call his own. I found both men to be sympathetic without being overwhelmed. I wanted to comfort them. I do admit I wasn’t terribly fond of Ira at the beginning. He was surly and rude, and not just to Cam. Of course, as the story moves along, I was able to see why he acted that way. I really liked how he grew as a person, and once he broke through his barriers, how loving and caring he became.
Read Kenna’s review in its entirety here.
December 21, 2020
Meh. I didn't like Ira and his change of attitude was too quick to be believable. I really liked Cam though. I wish I could do a switch up with the characters from the last book. Both Nate and Cam were great and got stuck with unlikable people for partners. I'm going to re-write the plots in my head and put Nate and Cam as a couple and leave Miguel and Ira to be stupid together. :D :D
June 8, 2019
Ira and Cam…
I’ve been curious about both of these two since being introduced briefly to them in previous books. Ira, broody and borderline hateful on occasion wasn’t very likable in the beginning. Having left his wife and kid behind and moving to Skagit, he left like since he hurt his family so badly by deceiving them….he thought he didn’t deserve to have anything like he had, friends family, happiness….so he enjoyed the hookups and keeping to himself and that was that….
Cam was so incredibly sweet. I liked him immediately, and partly because I love a wounded bird, but my heart hurt for him because it seemed like nobody treated him fairly and he stayed sweet and humble and just…. Sweet. Ira coming to the bar he worked at and leaving with endless twinks was hard on him and he deserved so much better than that, but Ira kept pushing him away, using his age as a barrier… didn’t like that, especially when his conquests were much younger than Cam most of the time.
I also didn’t like that when Ira was done with that excuse, he just kind of said, okay, nevermind… I like you now. Like, 2 years he’d been pushing him away, but all the sudden he’s just… nevermind. Though Cam did make him work for It for a minute or two, he was waaaaay too forgiving.
But, when Cam finds himself on the hurt end of a hate crime, the mystery that turned into way too big of a coincidence, comes into play. I also hate how everyone in these stories has so many cop friends and they never want to tell what they know! Like, why not? They can help you!!!
Cam did, eventually though, and with Adam, Weir and Jorgenson’s help, they keep Cam safe, but it’s a big ol’ mess who’s involved and why. Then we have another couple side stories of families coming out of the woodwork and it was a lot to keep up with.
I loved Ruth though, I’m so glad that Cam had someone in his corner when everyone else left him. She was nutty and sweet and I loved her immediately. #OldLadyGoals.
Overall though, everything gets worked out and these two of course get their HEA… it’s a loooong road to get there, but they did it in the end. I cannot wait to see what happens between Travis and Rod, although I think I might actually hate Travis already… and though this one wasn’t my favorite of the series, I’m glad they both got their happy.
4 stars from me
I’ve been curious about both of these two since being introduced briefly to them in previous books. Ira, broody and borderline hateful on occasion wasn’t very likable in the beginning. Having left his wife and kid behind and moving to Skagit, he left like since he hurt his family so badly by deceiving them….he thought he didn’t deserve to have anything like he had, friends family, happiness….so he enjoyed the hookups and keeping to himself and that was that….
Cam was so incredibly sweet. I liked him immediately, and partly because I love a wounded bird, but my heart hurt for him because it seemed like nobody treated him fairly and he stayed sweet and humble and just…. Sweet. Ira coming to the bar he worked at and leaving with endless twinks was hard on him and he deserved so much better than that, but Ira kept pushing him away, using his age as a barrier… didn’t like that, especially when his conquests were much younger than Cam most of the time.
I also didn’t like that when Ira was done with that excuse, he just kind of said, okay, nevermind… I like you now. Like, 2 years he’d been pushing him away, but all the sudden he’s just… nevermind. Though Cam did make him work for It for a minute or two, he was waaaaay too forgiving.
But, when Cam finds himself on the hurt end of a hate crime, the mystery that turned into way too big of a coincidence, comes into play. I also hate how everyone in these stories has so many cop friends and they never want to tell what they know! Like, why not? They can help you!!!
Cam did, eventually though, and with Adam, Weir and Jorgenson’s help, they keep Cam safe, but it’s a big ol’ mess who’s involved and why. Then we have another couple side stories of families coming out of the woodwork and it was a lot to keep up with.
I loved Ruth though, I’m so glad that Cam had someone in his corner when everyone else left him. She was nutty and sweet and I loved her immediately. #OldLadyGoals.
Overall though, everything gets worked out and these two of course get their HEA… it’s a loooong road to get there, but they did it in the end. I cannot wait to see what happens between Travis and Rod, although I think I might actually hate Travis already… and though this one wasn’t my favorite of the series, I’m glad they both got their happy.
4 stars from me
May 9, 2018
4 Stars
This is book 6 in the series and while some of the previous main characters are featured in this story, it still reads well as a standalone. I have yet to read the first three books, but I could still follow along with minimal problems.
While Ira and Cam haven’t been my favorite couple so far in this series, their story was still enjoyable.
Ira was extremely dislikable in the beginning and I kind of wanted to bash his face in, just a bit, but as we learn more about him and his past and while I don’t think 18 years spent married to a woman you may love, but aren't in love with and pretending to be the straight, loving husband and father, when straight you definitely are not, may be hard, it still isn’t an excuse for coming to town and hooking up with every twink available and just being an all-around twat! But I did sympathize with the fact that spending most of his life living a lie must have been extremely difficult and maybe a little soul-crushing.
Cam was an absolute sweetheart, and his story is so sad, a cancer survivor, whose parents disowned him at a young age because of his sexuality, ugh, parents like these just completely disgust me. Despite this, Cam was sweet and caring and maybe a bit too forgiving of Ira’s past behavior in the beginning.
Ira and Cam had good chemistry, but I wish the author had focused a bit more on the romantic development of their relationship. We got to know them as individuals, but once they get together the focus turns more to the mystery portion of the story and their relationship development suffered a bit.
The mystery/suspense position, as it has been in the previous stories, was interesting and I loved watching it all unfold. I also liked getting to meet Ira’s son, Jacob and I hope to see his story soon. I was a bit disappointed that Ira (the author) didn’t further explore his father’s background. While it may have ended tragically with his murder, if it’s what I think it is, I think that it would have made for interesting reading.
This was a well-written and enjoyable read, filled with mystery, suspense, love and plenty of hot sexy times. Definitely recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher for my reading pleasure, a review was not a requirement*
This is book 6 in the series and while some of the previous main characters are featured in this story, it still reads well as a standalone. I have yet to read the first three books, but I could still follow along with minimal problems.
While Ira and Cam haven’t been my favorite couple so far in this series, their story was still enjoyable.
Ira was extremely dislikable in the beginning and I kind of wanted to bash his face in, just a bit, but as we learn more about him and his past and while I don’t think 18 years spent married to a woman you may love, but aren't in love with and pretending to be the straight, loving husband and father, when straight you definitely are not, may be hard, it still isn’t an excuse for coming to town and hooking up with every twink available and just being an all-around twat! But I did sympathize with the fact that spending most of his life living a lie must have been extremely difficult and maybe a little soul-crushing.
Cam was an absolute sweetheart, and his story is so sad, a cancer survivor, whose parents disowned him at a young age because of his sexuality, ugh, parents like these just completely disgust me. Despite this, Cam was sweet and caring and maybe a bit too forgiving of Ira’s past behavior in the beginning.
Ira and Cam had good chemistry, but I wish the author had focused a bit more on the romantic development of their relationship. We got to know them as individuals, but once they get together the focus turns more to the mystery portion of the story and their relationship development suffered a bit.
The mystery/suspense position, as it has been in the previous stories, was interesting and I loved watching it all unfold. I also liked getting to meet Ira’s son, Jacob and I hope to see his story soon. I was a bit disappointed that Ira (the author) didn’t further explore his father’s background. While it may have ended tragically with his murder, if it’s what I think it is, I think that it would have made for interesting reading.
This was a well-written and enjoyable read, filled with mystery, suspense, love and plenty of hot sexy times. Definitely recommendable!
*copy provided by author/publisher for my reading pleasure, a review was not a requirement*
May 19, 2018
4.25 / 5 Stars
This is another great addition to the series, with 2 characters we've met in previous books (only glimpses though) but it's easy to follow as a standalone.
I like the relationship between Ira and Cam, it is not all roses and hearts. They had a one-night without repeat due to Ira's slutty ways but Cam is not chasing after him like a lovesick puppy. The dual point of view helps to understand them better, which is good because Ira is troublesome and not a character I liked much at first while Cam is a sweetheart from the beginning. On one hand, Cam has a trouble past and a disappointment of a family but he doesn' let things ruin his life. On the other hand, Ira has his own issues with the fact that he lied to his family (ex-wife and son) about his sexuality. And it doesn't help that he acts like a complete jackass.
It's an aching, sweet, fast-paced, May/December story with some mystery added to the mix but that's not the main focus of the book, more like an additional element to keep it flowing and it does a good job keeping you engage. And it doesn't hurt that the sexy times are really... sexy.
The author and this series have become one of my favorite and I can't wait for the next book in the series. And for the paranormal/urban fantasy story I hope to read soon.
This is another great addition to the series, with 2 characters we've met in previous books (only glimpses though) but it's easy to follow as a standalone.
I like the relationship between Ira and Cam, it is not all roses and hearts. They had a one-night without repeat due to Ira's slutty ways but Cam is not chasing after him like a lovesick puppy. The dual point of view helps to understand them better, which is good because Ira is troublesome and not a character I liked much at first while Cam is a sweetheart from the beginning. On one hand, Cam has a trouble past and a disappointment of a family but he doesn' let things ruin his life. On the other hand, Ira has his own issues with the fact that he lied to his family (ex-wife and son) about his sexuality. And it doesn't help that he acts like a complete jackass.
It's an aching, sweet, fast-paced, May/December story with some mystery added to the mix but that's not the main focus of the book, more like an additional element to keep it flowing and it does a good job keeping you engage. And it doesn't hurt that the sexy times are really... sexy.
The author and this series have become one of my favorite and I can't wait for the next book in the series. And for the paranormal/urban fantasy story I hope to read soon.
September 15, 2018
I read my personal copy of this book for Wicked Reads.
Ira moves to Skagit after his marriage of 20 years ends when his wife finds out he is gay. He stops all contact with this wife and son and spends the next two years nailing every young guy in town including bartender Cameron. But Ira uses their 20 odd year age difference as an excuse to brush Cameron off.
At first I judged Ira pretty harshly. I was no fond of him at all. Partially from the fact that he cuts his son completely out of his life and partially because after his weekend with Cameron he keeps going into the bar Cameron works at to pick up guys. Cameron has had a difficult life and I wanted good things for him and I wasn’t sure about Ira.
Turns out I was too harsh on Ira. When his wife and son return to his life and we get more of a picture of Ira’s life before Skagit my view of his started to soften. And as Ira and Cameron start seeing each other again I realised they guys are a really good fit and their age difference means nothing and I’d changed my turn about Ira.
The story is more than romance and relationship dramas, issues from their past put Cameron and Ira in danger and this danger helps bring them closer together.
For me Unforgivable was an up and down ride which I really enjoyed. I think the troubled road that Ira and Cameron take made the ending to the story that much sweeter. 3 solid stars.
Ira moves to Skagit after his marriage of 20 years ends when his wife finds out he is gay. He stops all contact with this wife and son and spends the next two years nailing every young guy in town including bartender Cameron. But Ira uses their 20 odd year age difference as an excuse to brush Cameron off.
At first I judged Ira pretty harshly. I was no fond of him at all. Partially from the fact that he cuts his son completely out of his life and partially because after his weekend with Cameron he keeps going into the bar Cameron works at to pick up guys. Cameron has had a difficult life and I wanted good things for him and I wasn’t sure about Ira.
Turns out I was too harsh on Ira. When his wife and son return to his life and we get more of a picture of Ira’s life before Skagit my view of his started to soften. And as Ira and Cameron start seeing each other again I realised they guys are a really good fit and their age difference means nothing and I’d changed my turn about Ira.
The story is more than romance and relationship dramas, issues from their past put Cameron and Ira in danger and this danger helps bring them closer together.
For me Unforgivable was an up and down ride which I really enjoyed. I think the troubled road that Ira and Cameron take made the ending to the story that much sweeter. 3 solid stars.
June 2, 2018
While the premise of this was good and I liked the characters. It was the execution that felt lacking to me. At times it was so robotic and devoid of emotion that I felt like I was reading an instruction manual. It was good but never really. pulled me in
August 3, 2021
Very entertaining!
4.25 Stars! Another great addition to a fantastic series! This book had lots to keep you entertained from start to finish.
4.25 Stars! Another great addition to a fantastic series! This book had lots to keep you entertained from start to finish.
July 1, 2019
Unforgivable (Book 6)- 4 Stars: [Ida and Cameron] Ah, these two, I have been wondering what was up with these two since each of them was introduced to us. Ira was so cranky I didn’t really think he’d get someone but I'm so glad he did (though he did everything the wrong way.) Cameron has had so much happen in his short 23 years that I am impressed that he is not this bitter man who hates everything, but he definitely isn’t.
May 4, 2018
I do enjoy a May-December sort of romance and I liked the relationship treatment used here with Ira and Cam. Ira came out later in life, knowing he’d lied to his wife and son for years. His angst drives him to become a man-hoor and a twink chaser, refusing to offer more than a night. Cam has some feels for Ira but watching him sleep his way through the bar is getting old. A good deed brings Cam and Ira back together but also stirs up old trouble for Cam. Ira steps up to help Cam and prove he’s changed his ways.
I like having chapters alternating between characters, learning their internal thoughts, fears and doubts. I was able to identify with them and really feel the romance. Cam’s history is very rough and it gave him a maturity greater than his age. Both he and Ira have good friends where they work, who stick up for them. Their age gap is mentioned and discussed but it wasn’t a catalyst for a big, dramatic breakup, which I liked too. The plot focuses mostly on Cam and Ira establishing balance as boyfriends plus danger that Cam encounters. New characters come into the picture and some past characters are involved because of the crimes occurring.
I think that Cam and Ira’s first time might have been mentioned in a previous book but I’ve not read them all yet. This stood alone just fine though. The two year time lapse did give credibility to the fast pace of the I love you’s. The epilogue was a little bit of a letdown. It was a short time in the future but didn’t give a lot of insight to their status and the end was a little abrupt. The series stories that I’ve read have been good and offer mystery/suspense sub-plots. I would recommend them for light reading with extra substance and just enough sexy spice.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
I like having chapters alternating between characters, learning their internal thoughts, fears and doubts. I was able to identify with them and really feel the romance. Cam’s history is very rough and it gave him a maturity greater than his age. Both he and Ira have good friends where they work, who stick up for them. Their age gap is mentioned and discussed but it wasn’t a catalyst for a big, dramatic breakup, which I liked too. The plot focuses mostly on Cam and Ira establishing balance as boyfriends plus danger that Cam encounters. New characters come into the picture and some past characters are involved because of the crimes occurring.
I think that Cam and Ira’s first time might have been mentioned in a previous book but I’ve not read them all yet. This stood alone just fine though. The two year time lapse did give credibility to the fast pace of the I love you’s. The epilogue was a little bit of a letdown. It was a short time in the future but didn’t give a lot of insight to their status and the end was a little abrupt. The series stories that I’ve read have been good and offer mystery/suspense sub-plots. I would recommend them for light reading with extra substance and just enough sexy spice.
*An ARC was provided by the author, publisher or promotional service and I have chosen to publish a fair and honest review for Jessie G Books Reviews blog*
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May 14, 2018Read and reviewed for Love Bytes Reviews. Check the blog for my release day review! www.lovebytesreviews.com
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May 20, 2018Let’s just say I like the general idea of the story but the delivery left me floundering.
To be fair, this is my first book of Elle Keaton and I barged into an ongoing series. I take the blame for that, “Unforgivable” being sixth entry to the “Accidental Roots” series the previous books I’ve never read before. In my defense, I rarely have problem diving into the middle ongoing series. My take on that is this: while books might be part of a series, each should be able to read as a standalone; especially for those featuring different MCs on each installments. So this is my first impression of “Unforgivable” - it should’ve been read in chronological order after the previous five books to grasp well-founded feeling of the premise and characters involved.
The story itself is [supposedly] a combo of love, salvation and murder mystery; told from the POV of Ira and Cameron alternately. Before following through with my thought on the book, just be warned that it might be spoilery (normally I don’t like to spill the bean, but I don’t think it’s possible to hold back this time).
Personally, I felt this book is a bit grasping with the all tell and less showing style. Not too mention there were many [again, supposedly] interconnected characters to follow. Cameron had been through a lot: cancer, being bullied, thrown out by his family when coming out, being homeless, so let’s chalk up another on his list of misery: victim of hate crime. Ira was no better; his father was murdered on the job that the news sent him into the arm of his female best friend and got her pregnant - yes, he had known at the time he was gay, but shocked you see, married said best friend then seeing men on the side (as in cheating), dumped and thrown out of the house [and the marriage] when his wife found out, and hid out to the small town where his father got killed to lick his wound. Drama over drama, right? Worry not, the book still got plenty to dole out.
These two tortured souls met and hooked up (happened off page, a couple of years prior to the start of the book). Why were they not a couple yet? Because Ira was an asshole of no substance who prefer twinks when in truth he was running from his real feeling for Cam. It took virus (and his past caught up to him) to shift things around for Ira. Soon him and Cam were caught up in fake engagement, helping law enforcement to catch one bad guy after another and solved a two-decade old murder. Head spinning yet??
I guess what I’m trying to say is, this is a busy book. There was a lot to fix, be it relationship between our lead characters, theirs with their loved ones, and putting their life together. It’s all fine by me if only it didn’t feel as if I always missing something throughout reading. I guess the author thought readers already know or familiar with EVERYBODY on the rooster (both protagonist and dubious characters) assuming they were regulars showing of the series, that casually presenting one name after another to help the situation was expected. Like head of local FBI office with newly minted local police detective showing up at your door and discuss strategy to trap a suspected murderer. Clearly I’ve been missing out on my mystery solving books all this time!
I’m rambling too far. The point is, as I mentioned earlier, the general idea of the book is fine by me. Yet somehow the writing and delivery of that idea didn’t click with me. I’m not sure, I might try checking out the first book of the series and see whether it’d work for me. No promise though.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
To be fair, this is my first book of Elle Keaton and I barged into an ongoing series. I take the blame for that, “Unforgivable” being sixth entry to the “Accidental Roots” series the previous books I’ve never read before. In my defense, I rarely have problem diving into the middle ongoing series. My take on that is this: while books might be part of a series, each should be able to read as a standalone; especially for those featuring different MCs on each installments. So this is my first impression of “Unforgivable” - it should’ve been read in chronological order after the previous five books to grasp well-founded feeling of the premise and characters involved.
The story itself is [supposedly] a combo of love, salvation and murder mystery; told from the POV of Ira and Cameron alternately. Before following through with my thought on the book, just be warned that it might be spoilery (normally I don’t like to spill the bean, but I don’t think it’s possible to hold back this time).
Personally, I felt this book is a bit grasping with the all tell and less showing style. Not too mention there were many [again, supposedly] interconnected characters to follow. Cameron had been through a lot: cancer, being bullied, thrown out by his family when coming out, being homeless, so let’s chalk up another on his list of misery: victim of hate crime. Ira was no better; his father was murdered on the job that the news sent him into the arm of his female best friend and got her pregnant - yes, he had known at the time he was gay, but shocked you see, married said best friend then seeing men on the side (as in cheating), dumped and thrown out of the house [and the marriage] when his wife found out, and hid out to the small town where his father got killed to lick his wound. Drama over drama, right? Worry not, the book still got plenty to dole out.
These two tortured souls met and hooked up (happened off page, a couple of years prior to the start of the book). Why were they not a couple yet? Because Ira was an asshole of no substance who prefer twinks when in truth he was running from his real feeling for Cam. It took virus (and his past caught up to him) to shift things around for Ira. Soon him and Cam were caught up in fake engagement, helping law enforcement to catch one bad guy after another and solved a two-decade old murder. Head spinning yet??
I guess what I’m trying to say is, this is a busy book. There was a lot to fix, be it relationship between our lead characters, theirs with their loved ones, and putting their life together. It’s all fine by me if only it didn’t feel as if I always missing something throughout reading. I guess the author thought readers already know or familiar with EVERYBODY on the rooster (both protagonist and dubious characters) assuming they were regulars showing of the series, that casually presenting one name after another to help the situation was expected. Like head of local FBI office with newly minted local police detective showing up at your door and discuss strategy to trap a suspected murderer. Clearly I’ve been missing out on my mystery solving books all this time!
I’m rambling too far. The point is, as I mentioned earlier, the general idea of the book is fine by me. Yet somehow the writing and delivery of that idea didn’t click with me. I’m not sure, I might try checking out the first book of the series and see whether it’d work for me. No promise though.
Advanced copy of this book is kindly given by the author in exchange for an honest review.
May 29, 2018
After numerous mistakes in his life, Ira Fragale has secluded himself on the farthest outskirts of Skagit. He’s estranged from his son and feels the guilt, shame, hurt and loneliness he’s caused and doesn’t know if he deserves to heal. He’s also left with the memory of his father, a former prosecuting attorney, who was murdered, and he feels like he should have done more to find the truth behind the murder. He’s found a decent job at the Booking Room, but he has a talent that has been falling by the wayside. And, he’s trying his best to avoid Cameron McCulloch.
Cameron is bartender at the Loft, where his boss, Sterling, is trying to make sure Cam’s not heading for a fall. Cameron may be much younger than Ira, but their weekend encounter left Cam feeling that he and Ira had hit it off, that it seemed mutual, but all it left Cameron with was bitter feelings. Ira walked out, saying that Cameron was just too young and doesn’t suit him even though Cameron has watched Ira leave the Loft with younger twinks.
Cameron also has dreams to better himself. As a teen he battled with cancer and was shunned by his family because he’s gay. But, he went on to make his own family with a neighbor, Ruth Cramer, who loves to bake. Going back to the old neighborhood to visit Ruth stirs up issues and bad memories for Cameron.
One night after closing Cameron is assaulted. He hides information from the police, but Sterling puts pressure on him to tell the truth. After one too many nerve racking incidents, Cameron has no choice left but to tell the truth. Even though Cam and Ira are at odds, when Ira becomes aware of what’s happened, he becomes Cam’s protector. When Adam Klay, head of the local FBI, Detective Jorgensen, and Evan Weir start digging deeper into Cameron’s assaults, the case starts to take a turn, with hate group and human trafficking connections.
Elle Keaton really outdid herself with Unforgivable. It’s a well-structured mystery that leads to an unsolved crime, and there’s always danger and suspense when Adam Klay and his team get into the mix. But most of all, this truly is a superb May/December romance. Ira made his appearance subtly in the first Accidental Roots novel, Storm Season, and he’s somewhat of a grouch to the locals in Skagit.
Cameron didn’t come into the series until Spring Break, and Elle Keaton really dug deep into Ira’s and Cameron’s personal lives and issues, which is what made this novel amazing and not what I expected. She did a top-notch job with both Ira and Cameron, bringing them to life. All I can say is this is a powerful, character driven story with so many emotions on many different levels. There are family issues, and plenty of chaos and surprises. The Loft always seems to have an abundance of interesting characters with their own stories—Jacob, Marcus, Rod and Travis, just to name a few.
Being in on the Accidental Roots series from the start, I have to admit this is my favorite novel so far. I’m more than excited and can’t wait, as I hear there’s a novella about Detective Jorgensen in the works, and it sounds just too intriguing to pass up!
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
Cameron is bartender at the Loft, where his boss, Sterling, is trying to make sure Cam’s not heading for a fall. Cameron may be much younger than Ira, but their weekend encounter left Cam feeling that he and Ira had hit it off, that it seemed mutual, but all it left Cameron with was bitter feelings. Ira walked out, saying that Cameron was just too young and doesn’t suit him even though Cameron has watched Ira leave the Loft with younger twinks.
Cameron also has dreams to better himself. As a teen he battled with cancer and was shunned by his family because he’s gay. But, he went on to make his own family with a neighbor, Ruth Cramer, who loves to bake. Going back to the old neighborhood to visit Ruth stirs up issues and bad memories for Cameron.
One night after closing Cameron is assaulted. He hides information from the police, but Sterling puts pressure on him to tell the truth. After one too many nerve racking incidents, Cameron has no choice left but to tell the truth. Even though Cam and Ira are at odds, when Ira becomes aware of what’s happened, he becomes Cam’s protector. When Adam Klay, head of the local FBI, Detective Jorgensen, and Evan Weir start digging deeper into Cameron’s assaults, the case starts to take a turn, with hate group and human trafficking connections.
Elle Keaton really outdid herself with Unforgivable. It’s a well-structured mystery that leads to an unsolved crime, and there’s always danger and suspense when Adam Klay and his team get into the mix. But most of all, this truly is a superb May/December romance. Ira made his appearance subtly in the first Accidental Roots novel, Storm Season, and he’s somewhat of a grouch to the locals in Skagit.
Cameron didn’t come into the series until Spring Break, and Elle Keaton really dug deep into Ira’s and Cameron’s personal lives and issues, which is what made this novel amazing and not what I expected. She did a top-notch job with both Ira and Cameron, bringing them to life. All I can say is this is a powerful, character driven story with so many emotions on many different levels. There are family issues, and plenty of chaos and surprises. The Loft always seems to have an abundance of interesting characters with their own stories—Jacob, Marcus, Rod and Travis, just to name a few.
Being in on the Accidental Roots series from the start, I have to admit this is my favorite novel so far. I’m more than excited and can’t wait, as I hear there’s a novella about Detective Jorgensen in the works, and it sounds just too intriguing to pass up!
Reviewed by Maryann for The Novel Approach
May 19, 2018
I've been looking forward to Ira and Cam's story for a while now. These two men are so different at first glance, especially with their age difference, but they fit together better than at least one of them realizes. Ira is a stubborn man, to the point where I wanted to Gibbs-slap him several times. Their relationship is anything but easy, and my heart broke for both of them. They have serious chemistry between them, and they are so hot together, but I do feel like I would have liked a little more focus on the relationship itself in the second half of the book. It seemed to come together a little suddenly, but I still loved it. Once they finally get it together, their relationship is so sweet and loving.. and I liked seeing that side of Ira finally.
While Cam's family made me feel rather stabby, the situation with Ira's family and how it improves was a highlight of this book for me.. I loved seeing Jacob take the steps he did to repair the relationships. Can we have a Jacob book, please? I *love* him! I really enjoyed the suspenseful aspect of the story, too. For a small northwestern town, Skagit sure does see some serious action! I loved getting to revisit some couples from prior books, especially my favorite guys Sterling and Weir. We also get to know the firefighters, one in particular, a little better in this book. I love Rod and my heart is absolutely shattered for him. I need his story. NEED it.
The Accidental Roots series is definitely a favorite of mine, and I can't wait for more stories from Skagit and Elle Keaton!
While Cam's family made me feel rather stabby, the situation with Ira's family and how it improves was a highlight of this book for me.. I loved seeing Jacob take the steps he did to repair the relationships. Can we have a Jacob book, please? I *love* him! I really enjoyed the suspenseful aspect of the story, too. For a small northwestern town, Skagit sure does see some serious action! I loved getting to revisit some couples from prior books, especially my favorite guys Sterling and Weir. We also get to know the firefighters, one in particular, a little better in this book. I love Rod and my heart is absolutely shattered for him. I need his story. NEED it.
The Accidental Roots series is definitely a favorite of mine, and I can't wait for more stories from Skagit and Elle Keaton!
June 19, 2019
Elle Keaton's Unforgiveable, the sixth book in the Accidental Roots series, is a touching romance.
Cam's homophobic family has shaped his life, leaving the reader immediately hurting for him. But, Cam falling for the sexy silver fox, Ira, is wonderful. After a hook up, they struggle with fighting their attraction.
These two men will touch your heart. Ira's completely broken, feeling unworthy of love. He's spent his life in the closet, and has lost his wife and son. His family issues are many. Meanwhile, Cam was kicked out of his house for being gay, leading him to a tough start in life. He wants more; college, a lover, and a sense of family.
Their age difference is something I absolutely love. Cam's only two years older than Ira's son, making for some interesting moments. I enjoy how well they work together, and find them to be crazy sexy as a couple.
Their story is one of wanting to resist someone but not being able to do so. It's a story of learning to live again. They have to deal with confessions, family problems, and danger.
Unforgivable is a remarkable read for me. I wish I could give it 6 stars. Everything about this book just worked for me.
Cam's homophobic family has shaped his life, leaving the reader immediately hurting for him. But, Cam falling for the sexy silver fox, Ira, is wonderful. After a hook up, they struggle with fighting their attraction.
These two men will touch your heart. Ira's completely broken, feeling unworthy of love. He's spent his life in the closet, and has lost his wife and son. His family issues are many. Meanwhile, Cam was kicked out of his house for being gay, leading him to a tough start in life. He wants more; college, a lover, and a sense of family.
Their age difference is something I absolutely love. Cam's only two years older than Ira's son, making for some interesting moments. I enjoy how well they work together, and find them to be crazy sexy as a couple.
Their story is one of wanting to resist someone but not being able to do so. It's a story of learning to live again. They have to deal with confessions, family problems, and danger.
Unforgivable is a remarkable read for me. I wish I could give it 6 stars. Everything about this book just worked for me.
October 5, 2022
Cameron & Ira
After meeting both of these guys in past books, it was good to get to know them. After a fling, they are put together again by Cameron just being who he is and being sweet. He had to help Ira get better. Ira knows he was full of excuses when he let Cameron down 2 years ago. Now he may be willing to open up and start living. To forgive himself for past mistakes and give in to his desire for Cameron. Cameron knows he should protect himself from Ira doing the same thing again but he can’t resist Ira. When Cameron faces a scary situation, Ira realizes he wants to be there for Cameron and Cameron thinks it may be nice to have someone in his corner, more than a friend. They both end up with more family than they ever thought they would have. I remember in a past book that Ira was a translator for some victims but don’t think it was explained how he knew the other language, I may have missed it and wouldn’t know the difference if I didn’t read the other book(s).
After meeting both of these guys in past books, it was good to get to know them. After a fling, they are put together again by Cameron just being who he is and being sweet. He had to help Ira get better. Ira knows he was full of excuses when he let Cameron down 2 years ago. Now he may be willing to open up and start living. To forgive himself for past mistakes and give in to his desire for Cameron. Cameron knows he should protect himself from Ira doing the same thing again but he can’t resist Ira. When Cameron faces a scary situation, Ira realizes he wants to be there for Cameron and Cameron thinks it may be nice to have someone in his corner, more than a friend. They both end up with more family than they ever thought they would have. I remember in a past book that Ira was a translator for some victims but don’t think it was explained how he knew the other language, I may have missed it and wouldn’t know the difference if I didn’t read the other book(s).
March 20, 2021
This is a story with hurt & love that will keep you captivated by the characters and longing for the secrets to unfold!
Ira has a unfortunate common thing shove down his own wants & desires to be the honored & expected adult responsibility. One thing in life if you are not happy no one is & it will hurt everyone around you - so its not selfish to follow your dreams! IRA divorced & 1 child leaves his past for a new future. He an artist and taking his life back & discovering his future. Cameron has tragic past and his present is just as disturbing. Not the time to moon over an older man. Secrets keep this story unraveling, family, friends, past and a peak at future. M/M V2 hate crimes, murder but not graphic details S2 romantic at heart. More opinions & book reviews @my2centsbooklover Thank you for checking my site out & we loved to habe you join us, comment and share. Thank you!
Ira has a unfortunate common thing shove down his own wants & desires to be the honored & expected adult responsibility. One thing in life if you are not happy no one is & it will hurt everyone around you - so its not selfish to follow your dreams! IRA divorced & 1 child leaves his past for a new future. He an artist and taking his life back & discovering his future. Cameron has tragic past and his present is just as disturbing. Not the time to moon over an older man. Secrets keep this story unraveling, family, friends, past and a peak at future. M/M V2 hate crimes, murder but not graphic details S2 romantic at heart. More opinions & book reviews @my2centsbooklover Thank you for checking my site out & we loved to habe you join us, comment and share. Thank you!
May 28, 2018
Just what I expect and more.
I fell in love with Elle Keaton's work when I read Storm Season, the first book in this series. With each one I fell a little more. Just like the others, this one offers a unique romance with lovable characters, some of which we have seen throughout the series. What I really liked was how the mystery and intrigue, while being specific to Cameron and Ira, still tied into that which had been plaguing Skagit for years. To me it feels like we have almost come full circle but it's not quite over yet. I like how the author has the older characters in loved without detracting from the main couple. Plus, with each book we get a closure but are still left with questions. My main ones are, who is the hidden baddie and what's up with dumb Travis. Know that I'll be waiting for the next one eagerly.
I fell in love with Elle Keaton's work when I read Storm Season, the first book in this series. With each one I fell a little more. Just like the others, this one offers a unique romance with lovable characters, some of which we have seen throughout the series. What I really liked was how the mystery and intrigue, while being specific to Cameron and Ira, still tied into that which had been plaguing Skagit for years. To me it feels like we have almost come full circle but it's not quite over yet. I like how the author has the older characters in loved without detracting from the main couple. Plus, with each book we get a closure but are still left with questions. My main ones are, who is the hidden baddie and what's up with dumb Travis. Know that I'll be waiting for the next one eagerly.
April 14, 2022
Good story.
Well I to book 6 and I am still enjoying all of these stories about the different characters. Cameron and Ira were interesting couple. The age gap. Ira having a son close to the same age as his boyfriend. The fact Ira had left his life out east when his wife confronted him about his affairs. Move to the town where his father was killed. He meets Cameron who is a bar tender. They end up having a long weekend but Ira ends it there since he only does one night hookups. They play cat and mouse until Ira ends up getting really sick and Cameron show up to take care of him. Something then start being more solid between them. So their story has their drama. Cameron is attacked by a hater. Find out the person who killed Ira dad still lives in town and a plan is put together to catch the bad guy.
Well I to book 6 and I am still enjoying all of these stories about the different characters. Cameron and Ira were interesting couple. The age gap. Ira having a son close to the same age as his boyfriend. The fact Ira had left his life out east when his wife confronted him about his affairs. Move to the town where his father was killed. He meets Cameron who is a bar tender. They end up having a long weekend but Ira ends it there since he only does one night hookups. They play cat and mouse until Ira ends up getting really sick and Cameron show up to take care of him. Something then start being more solid between them. So their story has their drama. Cameron is attacked by a hater. Find out the person who killed Ira dad still lives in town and a plan is put together to catch the bad guy.
April 27, 2024
Ira believes that what he did to his wife and son is unforgivable and to ensure that he doesn't want to do the same to anyone else he refuses any sign of commitment. Cameron is very much into older men and after a weekend with Ira he wants more but Ira keeps him away. Cameron has been taunted by a bully he grew up with and physically attacked. Cameron grows concerned when Ira hasn't been around for several days. He manages to track the man down and help him through an illness. The two spend more time getting to know one another. It seems that Ira's father's death and Iira's presence in the community has brought out some old hatred and is threatening both men. Another romantic mystery to keep you turning the pages.
August 27, 2020
Both Ira and Cam have pasts that make it hard to trust. Ira betrayed his wife by not telling her he was gay, and his son never wants to see him again. Cam's religious family kicked him out after he recovered from cancer and came out to them.
Though Ira tries to resist, living alone and in shame, he can't help how he feels about Cam. As they start seeing each other, the past surfaces, and present dangers only complicate matters. With help from all the FBI characters, the bad guys lose, and the past is dead.
Good story, interesting to read about Ira struggling in his 40s, learning it's not too late, and reconciling with his family, opening up up to loving Cam.
KU
Though Ira tries to resist, living alone and in shame, he can't help how he feels about Cam. As they start seeing each other, the past surfaces, and present dangers only complicate matters. With help from all the FBI characters, the bad guys lose, and the past is dead.
Good story, interesting to read about Ira struggling in his 40s, learning it's not too late, and reconciling with his family, opening up up to loving Cam.
KU
May 23, 2018
Absolutely love this series!!!
This is a fantastic series from the very first book, all the characters all the suspense, the love and beautiful broken men that Elle Keaton gives us.
Ira ended up being one of my favorite characters, and Cam was absolutely perfect for him. Even if it took Ira a while to figure it out.
This is my first series by this author but each book only got better and better. I really hope there are more in the future because I'm not ready to leave Skagit behind.
This is a fantastic series from the very first book, all the characters all the suspense, the love and beautiful broken men that Elle Keaton gives us.
Ira ended up being one of my favorite characters, and Cam was absolutely perfect for him. Even if it took Ira a while to figure it out.
This is my first series by this author but each book only got better and better. I really hope there are more in the future because I'm not ready to leave Skagit behind.
August 5, 2025
An artist and the bartender, so different so similar!
As Ira learns to forgive himself, Cam learns to trust someone other than himself… a hate crime leads to an unsolved murder twenty years prior… can a fake engagement flush out the killer on the lamb?? Or will theirs be the next headline of a local doom… how do fresh baked cookies 🍪 steal the show and save their lives? This is a great addition to the Shielded Hearts series! Elle keeps you on the edge, occasionally getting mad or laughing out loud, with her characters! Best read in order, highly recommended!! Jeffrey, RN
As Ira learns to forgive himself, Cam learns to trust someone other than himself… a hate crime leads to an unsolved murder twenty years prior… can a fake engagement flush out the killer on the lamb?? Or will theirs be the next headline of a local doom… how do fresh baked cookies 🍪 steal the show and save their lives? This is a great addition to the Shielded Hearts series! Elle keeps you on the edge, occasionally getting mad or laughing out loud, with her characters! Best read in order, highly recommended!! Jeffrey, RN
September 16, 2018
4.5 stars - Skagit is definitely somewhere I'd like to visit, as long as I could hang out with the characters from this series. Although, Ira had a small bit of redeeming he had to do IMO from his boorish behavior in previous books. This book had a slightly different feel due to the additional characters involved in the main storyline but the author pulls it off well. Hoping for more in this world.
December 9, 2019
This ones ok
I do wonder if anyone reads these books before they’re published though. The amount of errors is a little crazy. Yes spelling, but also some very confusing writing. It’s a better story than the last one, which I couldn’t finish.
It’s weird though. I mean the story is good but it seems like she doesn’t really have an editor. It could be so much better with just a little bit of guidance. It’s a shame.
I do wonder if anyone reads these books before they’re published though. The amount of errors is a little crazy. Yes spelling, but also some very confusing writing. It’s a better story than the last one, which I couldn’t finish.
It’s weird though. I mean the story is good but it seems like she doesn’t really have an editor. It could be so much better with just a little bit of guidance. It’s a shame.
August 28, 2025
This entry in the ever expanding Skagit universe was more of a romance than a suspense story. This one followed the Loft's bartender Cameron who we have met previously, and newcomer to Skagit Ira, who is an artist running from his past. This is a story of how they get together and defeat their past demons, while also solving a few mysteries that relate to previous stories. Some familiar faces pop up, but it is really focussed on Cam and Ira as they untangle the past and find their future.
Read
June 11, 2022Not rating this one. I only got through chapter 4 when I decided I wasn't reading any further. This may be a great book, but I'm not a huge fan of age gaps, especially when offspring are involved and even less so when said offspring is near the same age as one of the MCs. (And for some wild reason, most of the books I've been grabbing off my TBR happen to be age gap.) I also wasn't liking Ira's character so far, I'm sure that would have changed as the story progressed. As soon as Ira's son (I'm assuming that's who the new character Jake was) was in the bar with Cam that was the end for me.
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