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Past His Defenses: 7
When a case reopens old wounds from the kidnapping of his younger sister, police officer Robert Fenner is told in no uncertain terms that he needs a break. And maybe his superiors are right. He books a flight to visit an old friend, who happens to be the one who got away, and hopes for the best.
Electronic security consultant Dixie Halewood works from his home in Paris, where he lives with his adopted son, Henri. Dixie doesn’t expect a message from an old flame asking for a place to stay, but he agrees. Their past is just that—the past.
Things between them aren’t as settled as they thought—Henri, Paris, and proximity work their magic. The two men are drawn closer and old flames burst back to life, but Dixie’s work brings a new threat to their safety and the budding family they missed out on the first time around.
Electronic security consultant Dixie Halewood works from his home in Paris, where he lives with his adopted son, Henri. Dixie doesn’t expect a message from an old flame asking for a place to stay, but he agrees. Their past is just that—the past.
Things between them aren’t as settled as they thought—Henri, Paris, and proximity work their magic. The two men are drawn closer and old flames burst back to life, but Dixie’s work brings a new threat to their safety and the budding family they missed out on the first time around.
262 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 11, 2022
12 people are currently reading
114 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 16 of 16 reviews
February 18, 2022
Andrew Grey is one of my favorite m/m romance authors. He writes from the heart and most of his books include young children into the story line. Mr. grey may have outdone himself this time, because the romance between the Robert and Dixie is not only sweet and believable, but Dixie's son, Henri is what contributes the biggest part of what makes the book a 5-star read. You will be touched on so many levels with this superb offering by Andrew Grey. Wish I could have stayed and visited longer.
July 22, 2022
This is another enjoyable book by Andrew Grey. In this book, former Marine buddies and lovers, Robert and Dixie, reconnect in Paris. Robert, who works as a police officer in Michigan, has been forced to take a long vacation by his chief. While getting back together in Paris with Dixie after seven year, he also meets Henri, Dixie's adopted son. Dixie works on data encryption programs related to national security and he and his son are in danger from unknown persons who want to force Dixie to give up his program code. This book has action, intrigue, and a feel for Paris tourism. It is marred for me with fade-to-black vague love scenes. It feels like a significant part of the romance is missing. However, the story itself is very entertaining as long as the reader is happy with a PG romance.
March 18, 2022
I'm definitely in the minority here, but this G rated M/M romance with a significant plot moppet storyline just didn't work for me. I just didn't feel like the romance or the suspense elements were as developed as needed to make way for the significant child plot line. I did appreciate the low angst and HEA.
January 23, 2022
I really loved this book from Andrew Grey – it really had everything I wanted, the second chance romance, the mystery, some angst and quite possibly the cutest kid ever! I’m a big Andrew Grey fan and I have to say this one may be my favorite (so far)!
Robert and Dixie were soldiers together and for a brief moment lovers. Their lives went in different directions though, however they kept in contact a bit. Robert now works as a cop, it’s pretty much his sole focus in life. Dixie lives in Paris, is a security consultant and has a young son Henri. When Robert comes face to face with a kidnapping situation at work it hits too close to home and he finds himself in need of a break from work. Looking up Dixie, he decides a trip to Paris to reconnect with is friend sounds like the best idea. Little does he know that Dixie is need of some help from his friend, so the visit couldn’t come at a better time.
I really loved the way this story unfolded. Robert and Dixie both think their past is just that, over and done with, but the connection they felt one night is definitely still there. It’s not an easy reconnection for them though, Dixie is facing serious safety concerns, working on a secret government project that he finds puts himself and Henri in danger. Robert understands the danger and is more than willing to help protect Dixie and Henri, he seems to fit right in with their little family. But Robert is there on a temporary vacation, even if he can see a future with Dixie. These two share a complicated history and definitely have a lot to unpack when it comes to their feelings.
Dixie and Robert have great chemistry, it’s very easy to see how much these two care for each other, even if they fight it a bit. I feel like it’s important to talk a bit about Henri and how he fits into this story. He is the most precious child and he absolutely stole my heart. He is Dixie’s adopted son and has some disability issues, he struggles some but he is the strongest little kid. Dixie and Robert have a wonderful relationship yes, but I also adored the relationship that developed between Robert and Henri. Together they all make up something so very special.
Again, I loved this book from beginning to end, it had moments that made me laugh, that had me on edge and finally so very happy. I didn’t want to put the book down, I just wanted more of Robert, Dixie and Henri together. An absolutely fantastic read!
Robert and Dixie were soldiers together and for a brief moment lovers. Their lives went in different directions though, however they kept in contact a bit. Robert now works as a cop, it’s pretty much his sole focus in life. Dixie lives in Paris, is a security consultant and has a young son Henri. When Robert comes face to face with a kidnapping situation at work it hits too close to home and he finds himself in need of a break from work. Looking up Dixie, he decides a trip to Paris to reconnect with is friend sounds like the best idea. Little does he know that Dixie is need of some help from his friend, so the visit couldn’t come at a better time.
I really loved the way this story unfolded. Robert and Dixie both think their past is just that, over and done with, but the connection they felt one night is definitely still there. It’s not an easy reconnection for them though, Dixie is facing serious safety concerns, working on a secret government project that he finds puts himself and Henri in danger. Robert understands the danger and is more than willing to help protect Dixie and Henri, he seems to fit right in with their little family. But Robert is there on a temporary vacation, even if he can see a future with Dixie. These two share a complicated history and definitely have a lot to unpack when it comes to their feelings.
Dixie and Robert have great chemistry, it’s very easy to see how much these two care for each other, even if they fight it a bit. I feel like it’s important to talk a bit about Henri and how he fits into this story. He is the most precious child and he absolutely stole my heart. He is Dixie’s adopted son and has some disability issues, he struggles some but he is the strongest little kid. Dixie and Robert have a wonderful relationship yes, but I also adored the relationship that developed between Robert and Henri. Together they all make up something so very special.
Again, I loved this book from beginning to end, it had moments that made me laugh, that had me on edge and finally so very happy. I didn’t want to put the book down, I just wanted more of Robert, Dixie and Henri together. An absolutely fantastic read!
January 3, 2022
This is a story full of angst, danger, and lots of love (some of it very hot). Trigger note: There is child kidnapping, shooting, death (double note: the death is in the past and only talked about, not shown). I mention these things because they are an anxiety trigger for some people.
The story opens with Robert, a cop, is trying to talk a kidnapper into releasing his hostage, a 6-year-old girl. Gunfire ensues and the little girl is shot, but not killed. But her injury brings back old memories for Robert from when his sister was kidnapped and killed. His captain orders him to take a vacation so Robert heads to Paris and an old friend from the Marines. They had a brief fling in Italy while serving in Afghanistan. Dixie is now settled in Paris and has a young son, Henri. When Robert arrives, they discover their past isn’t exactly done and gone and things heat up. But Dixie’s job as a cyber security expert causes problems and puts them all in danger. Robert and Dixie need to figure out whether they want a future together -and where that future will be. All they know is that they love each other.
Recommendation: If you love Andrew Grey’s books, you’ll love this one. Danger, hot romance, and a cute kid—what more could you ask for.
Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
The story opens with Robert, a cop, is trying to talk a kidnapper into releasing his hostage, a 6-year-old girl. Gunfire ensues and the little girl is shot, but not killed. But her injury brings back old memories for Robert from when his sister was kidnapped and killed. His captain orders him to take a vacation so Robert heads to Paris and an old friend from the Marines. They had a brief fling in Italy while serving in Afghanistan. Dixie is now settled in Paris and has a young son, Henri. When Robert arrives, they discover their past isn’t exactly done and gone and things heat up. But Dixie’s job as a cyber security expert causes problems and puts them all in danger. Robert and Dixie need to figure out whether they want a future together -and where that future will be. All they know is that they love each other.
Recommendation: If you love Andrew Grey’s books, you’ll love this one. Danger, hot romance, and a cute kid—what more could you ask for.
Disclosure of Material: I received a final and/or advanced reader copy of this book with the hope that I will leave my unbiased opinion. I was not required to leave a review, positive or otherwise, and my opinions are just that… My Opinions. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
January 10, 2022
This book starts like it may be a bit angsty and for some it could have emotional triggers as there is off page kidnapping and mention of kidnapping resulting in death of a child. But it’s so well written the angst is low and a big part of the story as it’s the catalyst that sends Robert on a much needed vacation.
He goes to Paris to visit his ex marine friend and ex lover Dixie. He finds him with a son and his job has them in danger . After three weeks of being back together can they go back to their own lives?
Holy cow! I think Robert and Dixie are right up there with my favorite Andrew Grey Characters! I love a good second Chance romance.
So this story is like a delightful cake. One layer is fabulous characters, another the intriguing plot, the top the sensual second Chance romance with just the right amount of sexual tension and mostly off page sex. The touch of mystery and suspense like little nuggets of nuts and fruit to add an extra touch. Then we have Henri. The cutest kid ever like the perfect chocolate ganache frosting to pull the cake together with all the feels and slight humor.
There you have it! A wonderful book you really must read!
Now I have a request. Henri needs his own story but before that, David a person Robert meets just before the end… we need that lol!
He goes to Paris to visit his ex marine friend and ex lover Dixie. He finds him with a son and his job has them in danger . After three weeks of being back together can they go back to their own lives?
Holy cow! I think Robert and Dixie are right up there with my favorite Andrew Grey Characters! I love a good second Chance romance.
So this story is like a delightful cake. One layer is fabulous characters, another the intriguing plot, the top the sensual second Chance romance with just the right amount of sexual tension and mostly off page sex. The touch of mystery and suspense like little nuggets of nuts and fruit to add an extra touch. Then we have Henri. The cutest kid ever like the perfect chocolate ganache frosting to pull the cake together with all the feels and slight humor.
There you have it! A wonderful book you really must read!
Now I have a request. Henri needs his own story but before that, David a person Robert meets just before the end… we need that lol!
Read
June 13, 2024When a case reopens old wounds from the kidnapping of his younger sister, police officer Robert Fenner is told in no uncertain terms that he needs a break. And maybe his superiors are right. He books a flight to visit an old friend, who happens to be the one who got away, and hopes for the best.
Electronic security consultant Dixie Halewood works from his home in Paris, where he lives with his adopted son, Henri. Dixie doesn’t expect a message from an old flame asking for a place to stay, but he agrees. Their past is just that—the past.
Things between them aren’t as settled as they thought—Henri, Paris, and proximity work their magic. The two men are drawn closer and old flames burst back to life, but Dixie’s work brings a new threat to their safety and the budding family they missed out on the first time around.
Heather's Notes
This was not a bad book. I liked the characters, but I didn't really feel invested in the story. I don't know... I feel like it was just a surface story. Still not bad.
Electronic security consultant Dixie Halewood works from his home in Paris, where he lives with his adopted son, Henri. Dixie doesn’t expect a message from an old flame asking for a place to stay, but he agrees. Their past is just that—the past.
Things between them aren’t as settled as they thought—Henri, Paris, and proximity work their magic. The two men are drawn closer and old flames burst back to life, but Dixie’s work brings a new threat to their safety and the budding family they missed out on the first time around.
Heather's Notes
This was not a bad book. I liked the characters, but I didn't really feel invested in the story. I don't know... I feel like it was just a surface story. Still not bad.
January 24, 2022
Another Gem
I've mentioned this before--Andrew Grey may be the best author in this genre when it comes to including precocious young children into the story line. In this case, he delivers what may be his best child (and one of his very best books overall) because the romance between the MC's is believable but the boy Henri is the cat's pajamas.
Or whatever that translates to in French.
We are introduced to Robert as the beginning--an ex-military working as a cop in Michigan who is sent away on an enforced vacation following a kidnap standoff that was so similar to what happened to his sister years ago that he's thrown into a deep funk.
Devoid of destination ideas and striking out on visiting friends in the U.S. somehow he decides that getting away from it all may be best and he drops a note to an old army buddy now living in Paris on the off-chance that he would answer.
Not only is Dixie an old Army buddy, he was Robert's partner in a brief holiday to Italy when they were deployed in Afghanistan. "Partner" in this case meaning they spent most of their time in bed in an encounter both of them knew would end when they returned to their platoons.
Sure.
This is Andrew Grey, remember, and after Dixie enthusiastically invites Robert to stay with him he gets the shock of his life when Dixie picks him up at the airport accompanied by aforementioned Henri.
This boy has some physical challenges which blocked many people from adopting him out of an orphanage--and how Grey deals with how Dixie managed to adopt him will break your heart and fill it with happiness at the same time.
As for the romance and the basic plot, read the blurb for a hint but remember this: You will remember this one for a long time because in the end it's all about love. Bravo!
I've mentioned this before--Andrew Grey may be the best author in this genre when it comes to including precocious young children into the story line. In this case, he delivers what may be his best child (and one of his very best books overall) because the romance between the MC's is believable but the boy Henri is the cat's pajamas.
Or whatever that translates to in French.
We are introduced to Robert as the beginning--an ex-military working as a cop in Michigan who is sent away on an enforced vacation following a kidnap standoff that was so similar to what happened to his sister years ago that he's thrown into a deep funk.
Devoid of destination ideas and striking out on visiting friends in the U.S. somehow he decides that getting away from it all may be best and he drops a note to an old army buddy now living in Paris on the off-chance that he would answer.
Not only is Dixie an old Army buddy, he was Robert's partner in a brief holiday to Italy when they were deployed in Afghanistan. "Partner" in this case meaning they spent most of their time in bed in an encounter both of them knew would end when they returned to their platoons.
Sure.
This is Andrew Grey, remember, and after Dixie enthusiastically invites Robert to stay with him he gets the shock of his life when Dixie picks him up at the airport accompanied by aforementioned Henri.
This boy has some physical challenges which blocked many people from adopting him out of an orphanage--and how Grey deals with how Dixie managed to adopt him will break your heart and fill it with happiness at the same time.
As for the romance and the basic plot, read the blurb for a hint but remember this: You will remember this one for a long time because in the end it's all about love. Bravo!
June 12, 2023
After rough Cade Robert's ordered take vacation he goes to Paris and his former military buddy and son Henri. His past also is weighing him down because of last case where little girl was kidnapped like his sister.
Dixie is glad to see Robert and so his his son Henri. They show Robert around Paris and Robert also helps Dixie with a work problem that hits close to home when near end Henri is take for few moments.
Henri was adorable and even though he has an arm and leg shorter than the other he doesn't let slow him down. He's smart as a whip which so cool. I loved him so much and wanted hug him when was having hard time. Dixie adopted him when no one else wanted him.
I was glad that in the end Robert realized he couldn't be without them and went back to them. It's where he belongs. Sex was good as usual.
Dixie is glad to see Robert and so his his son Henri. They show Robert around Paris and Robert also helps Dixie with a work problem that hits close to home when near end Henri is take for few moments.
Henri was adorable and even though he has an arm and leg shorter than the other he doesn't let slow him down. He's smart as a whip which so cool. I loved him so much and wanted hug him when was having hard time. Dixie adopted him when no one else wanted him.
I was glad that in the end Robert realized he couldn't be without them and went back to them. It's where he belongs. Sex was good as usual.
January 27, 2022
As usual, another nice story from Andrew Grey.
Loved Robert and Dixie and specially that pretty awesome kid Henri.
It was a well written story, not a lot of angst or drama, it did have a potentially big problem but it was resolved relatively easy.
Both MC's had a bit of baggage and mutual history but they did their best to communicate as adults and figure out a way to make their second chance work.
I'm getting a bit tired of the stories with lots of unnecessary drama and filled with angst and tons of miscommunication, so this book was a breath of fresh air in that sense.
Loved Robert and Dixie and specially that pretty awesome kid Henri.
It was a well written story, not a lot of angst or drama, it did have a potentially big problem but it was resolved relatively easy.
Both MC's had a bit of baggage and mutual history but they did their best to communicate as adults and figure out a way to make their second chance work.
I'm getting a bit tired of the stories with lots of unnecessary drama and filled with angst and tons of miscommunication, so this book was a breath of fresh air in that sense.
January 2, 2023
[3.5]
I had a good time with this romance, the relationship between Dixie and Robert was very believable and often sweet and heartwarming and the way they openly talked about their feelings and their past was nice to see between two grown men. Plus the added relationship of Dixie's son Henri and Robert was truly precious.
The ending did feel a bit rushed and everything wrapped up way more smoothly than I was excepting but it was still nice. Definitely will be reading more from this author.
I had a good time with this romance, the relationship between Dixie and Robert was very believable and often sweet and heartwarming and the way they openly talked about their feelings and their past was nice to see between two grown men. Plus the added relationship of Dixie's son Henri and Robert was truly precious.
The ending did feel a bit rushed and everything wrapped up way more smoothly than I was excepting but it was still nice. Definitely will be reading more from this author.
August 12, 2022
intrigue, espionage and love.
There is so much excitement in this book, I didn't want to put it down. Did and Robert had know love before but put it on the back burner for seven years. To be reunited again with the passion still being there was great. Throw in some espionage to juice it up and a seven year old, was fantastic. Love finds its way no matter.
There is so much excitement in this book, I didn't want to put it down. Did and Robert had know love before but put it on the back burner for seven years. To be reunited again with the passion still being there was great. Throw in some espionage to juice it up and a seven year old, was fantastic. Love finds its way no matter.
January 20, 2022
A Heartwarming must read...
A lovely story that draws you in from the first chapter. Robert and Dixie have just the right amount of Steam and Henri steals the show. I didn't want it to end. Past His Defenses is a great weekend read.
A lovely story that draws you in from the first chapter. Robert and Dixie have just the right amount of Steam and Henri steals the show. I didn't want it to end. Past His Defenses is a great weekend read.
December 27, 2022
this book is wow
Reading this book. As I’m reading this book, I can picture everything. It was like I was there seeing everything unfold. It took me to places that I can imagine seeing. For a book to have me seeing and picturing the places is a good book.
Reading this book. As I’m reading this book, I can picture everything. It was like I was there seeing everything unfold. It took me to places that I can imagine seeing. For a book to have me seeing and picturing the places is a good book.
January 27, 2022
Good, old school Andrew Grey. Nice to have him back.
April 5, 2022
Comenzó muy interesante una historia fuera de lo común muy original pero promediando la mitad del libro se hizo muuuuy lenta.
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