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White House Men #3
Click
He doesn't just want the friendship or the benefits. He wants it all.
Rhett, the White House photographer, is tired of everyone treating him like he’s fragile. He wants a life of his own. Punch his V-card. A boyfriend.
Making new friends is a good first step, even if it’s with his boss, Calix, who’s fifteen years his senior. Calix is kind and protective, and he encourages Rhett to spread his wings.
When Rhett stumbles, Calix is there to catch him, and what started as friendship, grows into a mutually beneficial arrangement. Friends with benefits. Kind of.
But Calix still mourns his dead husband, so what happens when Rhett wants to extend their arrangement…indefinitely? He doesn't just want the friendship or the benefits. He wants it all.
Meanwhile, the investigation continues, and the plot gets more and more complicated…and more dangerous. How far will the terrorists go to accomplish their goal?
Click is an MM romance with hurt/comfort, an age gap, a sweet virgin, and a friends with benefits arrangement. It’s the third book in the White House Men series, a romantic suspense series set in the White House, that needs to be read in order. Click ends with a happily ever after, but the suspense plot ends on a cliffhanger and will be continued in the rest of the series.
Rhett, the White House photographer, is tired of everyone treating him like he’s fragile. He wants a life of his own. Punch his V-card. A boyfriend.
Making new friends is a good first step, even if it’s with his boss, Calix, who’s fifteen years his senior. Calix is kind and protective, and he encourages Rhett to spread his wings.
When Rhett stumbles, Calix is there to catch him, and what started as friendship, grows into a mutually beneficial arrangement. Friends with benefits. Kind of.
But Calix still mourns his dead husband, so what happens when Rhett wants to extend their arrangement…indefinitely? He doesn't just want the friendship or the benefits. He wants it all.
Meanwhile, the investigation continues, and the plot gets more and more complicated…and more dangerous. How far will the terrorists go to accomplish their goal?
Click is an MM romance with hurt/comfort, an age gap, a sweet virgin, and a friends with benefits arrangement. It’s the third book in the White House Men series, a romantic suspense series set in the White House, that needs to be read in order. Click ends with a happily ever after, but the suspense plot ends on a cliffhanger and will be continued in the rest of the series.
Audible Audio
First published January 19, 2021
186 people are currently reading
364 people want to read
About the author
Nora Phoenix
127 books2,214 followersWould you like the long or the short version of my bio?
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
The short? You got it.
I write steamy gay romance books and I love it. I also love reading books. Books are everything.
How was that?
A little more detail? Gotcha.
I started writing my first stories when I was a teen…on a freaking typewriter. I still have these, and they’re adorably romantic. And bad, haha. Fear of failing kept me from following my dream to become a romance author, so you can imagine how proud and ecstatic I am that I finally overcame my fears and self doubt and did it. I adore my genre because I love writing and reading about flawed, strong men who are just a tad broken..but find their happy ever after anyway.
My favorite books to read are pretty much all MM/gay romances as long as it has a happy end. Kink is a plus… Aside from that, I also read a lot of nonfiction and not just books on writing. Popular psychology is a favorite topic of mine and so are self help and sociology.
Hobbies? Ain’t nobody got time for that. Just kidding. I love traveling, spending time near the ocean, and hiking. But I love books more.
Come hang out with me in my Facebook Group Nora’s Nook where I share previews, sneak peeks, freebies, fun stuff, and much more: https://www.facebook.com/groups/noras...
Wanna get first dibs on freebies, updates, sales, and more? Sign up for my newsletter (no spamming your inbox full…promise!) here: http://www.noraphoenix.com/newsletter/
You can also stalk me on Twitter: https://twitter.com/NoraFromBHR
On Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nora.phoenix/
On Bookbub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/nora-...
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 171 reviews
April 20, 2023
4.25**** stars
Hurt/comfort at its best! Such a beautiful love story amidst this fast pacing suspense plot.
The first two books both began the same way, with a prologue: Five years ago there was a terrorist attack. Three bombs detonated at the Pride Parade in New York City. It showed how the main characters before experienced this horrible event, as they were all there. Not so with this one and I’m actually glad we didn’t. We already got a glimpse of the effects the Pride Bombing left Rhett with in the previous books as well as we’ve seen what Calix had lost.
That day Calix lost his husband, the love of his life. And Rhett, a photographer, captured the horrors he saw on his camera —and he took a photo of Calix and his dying husband Matthew as well. That photo went around the world.
⇢ Calix: (47) Chief of staff to the president and one of his closest friends, lost his husband in the Pride Bombing
⇢ Rhett: (32) White House photographer, struggles with severe anxieties and agoraphobia since the Pride Bombing, best friends with Levar, still a virgin
Now that Levar found Henley Rhett realizes that it is time for him to lean so heavy on Levar and needs to spread his own wings and fly. That’s where Calix comes into play. These two, both considering what the other has been through in recent years, are so very tender and careful with each other and them falling in love with each other was so so wonderful to see.
And my God, Calix is a dirty talker in bed. It was so hot! Rhett and I are in total agreement here. *phew
I loved Calix and Rhett so so much; as characters as well as together. They were perfect for each other. Although I would’ve wished for a little more relationship angst, considering what horrible and intimate moment Rhett had witnessed and captured all those years ago. But in the end there wasn’t but I loved how the author tied up the topic of Calix still mourning his loss and still falling in love with Rhett.
Beautiful, isn’t it? ♡
I’m honestly not overly invested in the suspense plot of the series at the moment, but that’s probably on me. But I was glad that although there were a few chapters from Seth’s/Coulson’s POV in here that we got back into the White House and away from the agencies’ investigations only.
*Strong TW for detailed description of terrorist attack.
**********
White House Men Series:
Book 1 - Press - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Friends - 3.75 stars
Book 3 - Click - 4.25 stars
Book 4 - Serve - 4.0 stars
Book 5 - Care
Book 6 - Puzzle
Book 7 - Heal
Every book follows a new couple but the series has an overarching suspense plot and the books need to be read in order.
Hurt/comfort at its best! Such a beautiful love story amidst this fast pacing suspense plot.
The first two books both began the same way, with a prologue: Five years ago there was a terrorist attack. Three bombs detonated at the Pride Parade in New York City. It showed how the main characters before experienced this horrible event, as they were all there. Not so with this one and I’m actually glad we didn’t. We already got a glimpse of the effects the Pride Bombing left Rhett with in the previous books as well as we’ve seen what Calix had lost.
That day Calix lost his husband, the love of his life. And Rhett, a photographer, captured the horrors he saw on his camera —and he took a photo of Calix and his dying husband Matthew as well. That photo went around the world.
⇢ Calix: (47) Chief of staff to the president and one of his closest friends, lost his husband in the Pride Bombing
⇢ Rhett: (32) White House photographer, struggles with severe anxieties and agoraphobia since the Pride Bombing, best friends with Levar, still a virgin
Now that Levar found Henley Rhett realizes that it is time for him to lean so heavy on Levar and needs to spread his own wings and fly. That’s where Calix comes into play. These two, both considering what the other has been through in recent years, are so very tender and careful with each other and them falling in love with each other was so so wonderful to see.
Calix lifted his hand, caressed Rhett's cheek. "You're a gift, sweetheart. I never expected to find love again…but here you are.“
And my God, Calix is a dirty talker in bed. It was so hot! Rhett and I are in total agreement here. *phew
I loved Calix and Rhett so so much; as characters as well as together. They were perfect for each other. Although I would’ve wished for a little more relationship angst, considering what horrible and intimate moment Rhett had witnessed and captured all those years ago. But in the end there wasn’t but I loved how the author tied up the topic of Calix still mourning his loss and still falling in love with Rhett.
He smiled through his tears at the photo. So many good memories. "I'm in love, baby," he whispered. "I'm in love with the sweetest, kindest, cutest man ever. You would've loved him. I know you would. And I'm ready to start my life with him, but I promise I'll always love you. You're in my heart, baby, and you always will be. I miss you so much. Thank you for the wonderful life I had with you, for all the memories. You were loved. You were so loved."
He missed Matthew, and he loved Rhett. And that was okay.
Beautiful, isn’t it? ♡
I’m honestly not overly invested in the suspense plot of the series at the moment, but that’s probably on me. But I was glad that although there were a few chapters from Seth’s/Coulson’s POV in here that we got back into the White House and away from the agencies’ investigations only.
*Strong TW for detailed description of terrorist attack.
**********
White House Men Series:
Book 1 - Press - 4.5 stars
Book 2 - Friends - 3.75 stars
Book 3 - Click - 4.25 stars
Book 4 - Serve - 4.0 stars
Book 5 - Care
Book 6 - Puzzle
Book 7 - Heal
Every book follows a new couple but the series has an overarching suspense plot and the books need to be read in order.
January 23, 2021
The plot thickens and two lonely souls find each other
I've been waiting for this one since the opening Prologue of Press, when Rhett took a photo of a man holding his dying love in his arms at the Pride Bombing.
To be honest I thought I'd have to wait longer for it, but Nora has given Calix and Rhett their chance at happiness and it's a well paced relationship development.
I liked that they started with a slow and steady friendship which didn't rush into anything but light flirting.
Rhett is dealing with the trauma of his experiences - not only as the photographer who took the picture of Calix and his husband Matthew - but he's also got anxieties over his lack of sexual experience.
Calix is determined he's had his one chance to love and he's devoted his time to serving his best friend as his Chief of Staff.
The sparks between them are too hard to ignore though and it's pretty obvious to the reader just where they'll end up.
Meanwhile the plot thickens in the search for the terrorists and it becomes clear things are a lot closer to home than first was apparent.
Tensions are ramping up, secrets are coming out, and falling in love might become least of all their worries.
Interestingly, this book also jumps into scenes with Seth and Coulson, and it's a bold choice to make.
For me, it worked, I think it would have been impossible to get the necessarily information they discover without massive amounts of exposition.
I'm now intrigued by who is going to be popping onto the radar of the President's brother-in-law, a Dom in need of a sub, or perhaps two!
I've been waiting for this one since the opening Prologue of Press, when Rhett took a photo of a man holding his dying love in his arms at the Pride Bombing.
To be honest I thought I'd have to wait longer for it, but Nora has given Calix and Rhett their chance at happiness and it's a well paced relationship development.
I liked that they started with a slow and steady friendship which didn't rush into anything but light flirting.
Rhett is dealing with the trauma of his experiences - not only as the photographer who took the picture of Calix and his husband Matthew - but he's also got anxieties over his lack of sexual experience.
Calix is determined he's had his one chance to love and he's devoted his time to serving his best friend as his Chief of Staff.
The sparks between them are too hard to ignore though and it's pretty obvious to the reader just where they'll end up.
Meanwhile the plot thickens in the search for the terrorists and it becomes clear things are a lot closer to home than first was apparent.
Tensions are ramping up, secrets are coming out, and falling in love might become least of all their worries.
Interestingly, this book also jumps into scenes with Seth and Coulson, and it's a bold choice to make.
For me, it worked, I think it would have been impossible to get the necessarily information they discover without massive amounts of exposition.
I'm now intrigued by who is going to be popping onto the radar of the President's brother-in-law, a Dom in need of a sub, or perhaps two!
June 24, 2021
5 stars audio
3.75 stars story. The only reason why this isn't a 5 star read is because the constant references to Calix's dead husband got on my fucking nerves and frankly the "mystery" part is boring. At least didn't cause any push pull in the relationship development. Rhett and Calix's relationship was absolutely swoony. So far book 2 and this book's couples are my absolute favorites. I will be skipping book 4 because ,,,,BDSM (so annoyed) but I will definitely be jumping on book 5 when it hits audiobook.
3.75 stars story. The only reason why this isn't a 5 star read is because the constant references to Calix's dead husband got on my fucking nerves and frankly the "mystery" part is boring. At least didn't cause any push pull in the relationship development. Rhett and Calix's relationship was absolutely swoony. So far book 2 and this book's couples are my absolute favorites. I will be skipping book 4 because ,,,,BDSM (so annoyed) but I will definitely be jumping on book 5 when it hits audiobook.
February 6, 2021
As much as I adore Nora Phoenix on a personal level, it pains me to say this, but I don't click with her writing style. Umm, pun not intended...
February 25, 2021
*2.5 stars*
The only reason I keep up with this series is because I want to know who did it. Except the first book, the romance in all the others that followed fell short.
In Click, in particular, the characters were so sweet and formal with each other, their love story became utterly boring, without any conflict whatsoever. I don't even know how many times the word "sweetheart".
One more book to go. I'll read it, because who the hell did it???
The only reason I keep up with this series is because I want to know who did it. Except the first book, the romance in all the others that followed fell short.
In Click, in particular, the characters were so sweet and formal with each other, their love story became utterly boring, without any conflict whatsoever. I don't even know how many times the word "sweetheart".
One more book to go. I'll read it, because who the hell did it???
January 27, 2021
3.5 stars
January 20, 2021
A Joyfully Jay review.
3.75 stars
Click is the third book in the White House Men series and follows Calix and Rhett, two characters who have played big side roles since the first book. I have really enjoyed both these men so I was happy to see them get their story here. There is a nice sweetness about their interaction that I really liked. For all his intensity at work, Calix is so gentle with Rhett. He takes things slow and easy and is always checking in with Rhett. There is a protectiveness to their dynamic, but I never felt like it was too paternalistic. I also enjoyed seeing Rhett’s growth over the book as he gains in confidence, both in the bedroom and in socializing and interacting outside his small circle. There isn’t much conflict here from the relationship end, as the guys move pretty swiftly from friends having sex into boyfriends. So this is a fairly easy development into a relationship, but still engaging.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
3.75 stars
Click is the third book in the White House Men series and follows Calix and Rhett, two characters who have played big side roles since the first book. I have really enjoyed both these men so I was happy to see them get their story here. There is a nice sweetness about their interaction that I really liked. For all his intensity at work, Calix is so gentle with Rhett. He takes things slow and easy and is always checking in with Rhett. There is a protectiveness to their dynamic, but I never felt like it was too paternalistic. I also enjoyed seeing Rhett’s growth over the book as he gains in confidence, both in the bedroom and in socializing and interacting outside his small circle. There isn’t much conflict here from the relationship end, as the guys move pretty swiftly from friends having sex into boyfriends. So this is a fairly easy development into a relationship, but still engaging.
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
July 9, 2025
Every single one has been a 3 star read 🤣 but I really am in it for the political plot LOL this was a 3.5 until about 85%, so there’s that I guess
January 25, 2022
3 stars
Rhett… he acted a little child like at times not like a 32 year old… but I guess that’s his innocence talking? Idk I wished he was a little bit different, maybe that was due to John Solos narration? He made Rhett act like a baby.. which I didn’t love.
Calix… didn’t stand out too much he was hung up on his husband who died in the Pride Bombing. I did like how sweet and patient he was with Rhett though.
This book had chapters of Seth and Coulson.. which I liked since they were my favorite couple as of this moment but if we wanted to connect with Rhett and Calix then I don’t think we should of had Seth and Coulsons POV..they in my opinion messed the flow of the book up.
I am not sure if I am waiting to continue.. I am losing interest in the overall plot of finding who is behind everything, but maybe I just need another book in between these so I don’t get put into a slump…
Rhett… he acted a little child like at times not like a 32 year old… but I guess that’s his innocence talking? Idk I wished he was a little bit different, maybe that was due to John Solos narration? He made Rhett act like a baby.. which I didn’t love.
Calix… didn’t stand out too much he was hung up on his husband who died in the Pride Bombing. I did like how sweet and patient he was with Rhett though.
This book had chapters of Seth and Coulson.. which I liked since they were my favorite couple as of this moment but if we wanted to connect with Rhett and Calix then I don’t think we should of had Seth and Coulsons POV..they in my opinion messed the flow of the book up.
I am not sure if I am waiting to continue.. I am losing interest in the overall plot of finding who is behind everything, but maybe I just need another book in between these so I don’t get put into a slump…
April 3, 2021
I loved Rhett and Calix! Their story is especially sweet, their baggage considered. I found this book to be slowe than the first two, likely because the background investigation was slower and had less big events.
January 13, 2021
This series keeps getting better and better!
More political intrigue and more plot revealed in the assassination of President Markinson. More layers are peeled away but the picture is still not in focus. I know a photography pun 😬 I could not help myself.
Rhett and Calix are the MCs in this installment and what started out as a tentative friendship burned hot when they both let their guard down and were vulnerable to each other. SO many HOT scenes between these two! Wowser!
These characters were so well written and I read this book so fast as a result! I did not want to finish it but I had to know the end. It was a real catch-22.
While some questions are answered, there are still big mysteries yet to be revealed which will occur in the next books. I’m anxious to know how this will all unravel.
Highly recommend especially if you love a good mystery. Start with book 1 as these are not stand-alone books.
More political intrigue and more plot revealed in the assassination of President Markinson. More layers are peeled away but the picture is still not in focus. I know a photography pun 😬 I could not help myself.
Rhett and Calix are the MCs in this installment and what started out as a tentative friendship burned hot when they both let their guard down and were vulnerable to each other. SO many HOT scenes between these two! Wowser!
These characters were so well written and I read this book so fast as a result! I did not want to finish it but I had to know the end. It was a real catch-22.
While some questions are answered, there are still big mysteries yet to be revealed which will occur in the next books. I’m anxious to know how this will all unravel.
Highly recommend especially if you love a good mystery. Start with book 1 as these are not stand-alone books.
November 12, 2024
Ancora una volta una storia delicata, romantica, profonda ed emozionantissima.
Ancora una volta l'intrigo alla Casa Bianca toglie il fiato.
La Phoenix, come accade in ogni volume della serie, ma comunque in modo diverso e con un punto di vista peculiare, ci parla della difficoltà nel superare il dolore, di come ogni dolore sia unico e ognuno abbia i suoi tempi e i suoi modi per poterlo superare. Ci parla di rinascita e di riscoperta dei propri sentimenti e delle proprie emozioni. Lo fa con una narrazione fluida, limpida e diretta, in grado di centrare sempre il cuore.
Diversamente da prima, questo terzo capitolo è, a suo modo, profondamente corale. I precedenti protagonisti e nuovi personaggi balzano in prima fila per motivi diversi, ma con il medesimo risultato: quello di intensificare i legami di lealtà e di amicizia che già esistevano o che si stanno instaurando tra loro.
Se la trama romance è dolcissima, a tratti toccante e a tratti piena di passione e frizzantezza, quella investigativa è davvero al cardiopalma. Ci sono svolte inattese e il presentimento che il peggio deve ancora venire. Davvero, davvero bello.
Ottimo il lavoro di traduzione.
Hugs&kisses
Ancora una volta l'intrigo alla Casa Bianca toglie il fiato.
La Phoenix, come accade in ogni volume della serie, ma comunque in modo diverso e con un punto di vista peculiare, ci parla della difficoltà nel superare il dolore, di come ogni dolore sia unico e ognuno abbia i suoi tempi e i suoi modi per poterlo superare. Ci parla di rinascita e di riscoperta dei propri sentimenti e delle proprie emozioni. Lo fa con una narrazione fluida, limpida e diretta, in grado di centrare sempre il cuore.
Diversamente da prima, questo terzo capitolo è, a suo modo, profondamente corale. I precedenti protagonisti e nuovi personaggi balzano in prima fila per motivi diversi, ma con il medesimo risultato: quello di intensificare i legami di lealtà e di amicizia che già esistevano o che si stanno instaurando tra loro.
Se la trama romance è dolcissima, a tratti toccante e a tratti piena di passione e frizzantezza, quella investigativa è davvero al cardiopalma. Ci sono svolte inattese e il presentimento che il peggio deve ancora venire. Davvero, davvero bello.
Ottimo il lavoro di traduzione.
Hugs&kisses
December 13, 2024
3.5 starà
La storia è carina, anche se ho preferito i due volumi precedenti. Quello che mi intriga di più è capire la parte investigativa.
Ciò che non ho amato è il nomignolo gioia ripetuto da Calix ogni due per tre. E non sto esagerando, compare per ben 88 volte nel libro.
Ci vuole moderazione nelle cose.
La storia è carina, anche se ho preferito i due volumi precedenti. Quello che mi intriga di più è capire la parte investigativa.
Ciò che non ho amato è il nomignolo gioia ripetuto da Calix ogni due per tre. E non sto esagerando, compare per ben 88 volte nel libro.
Ci vuole moderazione nelle cose.
Read
December 26, 2020Review to come.
December 27, 2021
I almost gave up on yall Rhett and Calix... But then Boom. Calix came thruu with the dirty talk😋..I see you Rhett👀 you dirty lil boy 😎. Go ahead with yall bad selfs.
November 9, 2021
The romance was kind of boring? Too perfect, too sweet - the word "sweetheart" was used 82 times.
On the plus side, surprisingly, I get more engaged into the investigation subplot. I liked how there were chapters from previois book MCs perspective to keep the reader updated on the investigation process.
On the plus side, surprisingly, I get more engaged into the investigation subplot. I liked how there were chapters from previois book MCs perspective to keep the reader updated on the investigation process.
January 20, 2021
Ok. So be aware of the little italics at the bottom of the blurb because it is a bit cliffhangery….and yes I know that’s not really a word. It also still deals with the assassination of the last president, the bombing that started all this and everything in between. Even though the timeline may be five years later, everyone grieves and deals with things in their own way. So if there are triggers still for you, please be careful.
I was glad to get this story. I was really hoping for Calix to finally be able to move forward with his life after the loss of his husband. And for Rhett to finally be able to open his wings and fly himself after having to depend of Levar to get him through the simplest of things. Or what simple may be to someone else. Not so simple for Rhett. And I’m not going to lie, I’m glad that Nora paired them. I’m glad she made them really see each other because with all they have been through in their lives, there really were no explanations. They knew, in a sense, what the other had been through.
True, Rhett had never been married, and Calix had never had to deal with agoraphobia. But the fact is they still had to deal with the aftermath of the bombing that started everything. But what I loved even more, was how comfortable they became with each other. For both of them, it was a HUGE deal. Calix had never really let anyone see the personal Calix because being at the White House he always has a persona to uphold. But not only that, it let people get too close and that could be dangerous. Same for Rhett. For finally starting to find comfort in being in the world again, and for other things in his personal life, finding trust in someone other than Levar to be able to handle his ‘quirks’, was huge for him. And they are perfect for each other I think.
The surprise in this story was how this plot is shifting and who has really been involved all along. And who they are finding out has been behind things. It was a blow I was not expecting. And to start seeing pieces fit together, even without knowing them all yet, it’s still a heck of a shock and a ride to see this White House staff, the FBI, etc, start to put things together. And see what little it takes to set someone off. So, I’m definitely ready to see how everyone is going to tie together and how it’s going to add up in the end. Because as of now, I’m still in shock.
https://lovebytesreviews.com/
I was glad to get this story. I was really hoping for Calix to finally be able to move forward with his life after the loss of his husband. And for Rhett to finally be able to open his wings and fly himself after having to depend of Levar to get him through the simplest of things. Or what simple may be to someone else. Not so simple for Rhett. And I’m not going to lie, I’m glad that Nora paired them. I’m glad she made them really see each other because with all they have been through in their lives, there really were no explanations. They knew, in a sense, what the other had been through.
True, Rhett had never been married, and Calix had never had to deal with agoraphobia. But the fact is they still had to deal with the aftermath of the bombing that started everything. But what I loved even more, was how comfortable they became with each other. For both of them, it was a HUGE deal. Calix had never really let anyone see the personal Calix because being at the White House he always has a persona to uphold. But not only that, it let people get too close and that could be dangerous. Same for Rhett. For finally starting to find comfort in being in the world again, and for other things in his personal life, finding trust in someone other than Levar to be able to handle his ‘quirks’, was huge for him. And they are perfect for each other I think.
The surprise in this story was how this plot is shifting and who has really been involved all along. And who they are finding out has been behind things. It was a blow I was not expecting. And to start seeing pieces fit together, even without knowing them all yet, it’s still a heck of a shock and a ride to see this White House staff, the FBI, etc, start to put things together. And see what little it takes to set someone off. So, I’m definitely ready to see how everyone is going to tie together and how it’s going to add up in the end. Because as of now, I’m still in shock.
https://lovebytesreviews.com/
January 16, 2021
Nora Phoenix's Click is a thrilling read. The third book in the White House Men series, it perfectly continues the political intrigue and romance surrounding the men occupying the White House.
The ongoing murder mystery/investigation, combined with continued action and danger, is all well done. More information is revealed, but there's still plenty to unveil.
As for the men, this time around we get the romance between Calix and Rhett. The boss/employee aspect of their relationship isn't a problem, which I appreciate. So don't worry about a forbidden relationship aspect here.
These men are wonderful together, both in and out of the bedroom. Yes, they are super hot together, with amazing chemistry. But they're also multi-layered characters full of vulnerability and painful pasts. I adore that they help one another heal and learn to trust again.
With Calix having lost his husband in the bombing that started this whole series, his grief is ever present. It's absolutely beautiful seeing him learning to love again. My favorite part of this story, by far, is the way Rhett deals with Calix's pain. It's remarkable, honorable, and truly amazing.
The virgin/first times aspects of this story are fabulous. It brings the men together, leads to smoking scenes, and helps the two naturally evolve into more than just lovers.
On a personal note, apparently I loathe constant endearments. The author's continued use of "sweetheart" had me ready to gag. That said, in the end it's an important part of their developing relationship. Thus I will give it a pass this time around.
Overall, Click is a fantastic read. Nora Phoenix places the romance front and center, but perfectly weaves the political mystery, suspense, and danger throughout. I can't wait to see what happens next.
The ongoing murder mystery/investigation, combined with continued action and danger, is all well done. More information is revealed, but there's still plenty to unveil.
As for the men, this time around we get the romance between Calix and Rhett. The boss/employee aspect of their relationship isn't a problem, which I appreciate. So don't worry about a forbidden relationship aspect here.
These men are wonderful together, both in and out of the bedroom. Yes, they are super hot together, with amazing chemistry. But they're also multi-layered characters full of vulnerability and painful pasts. I adore that they help one another heal and learn to trust again.
With Calix having lost his husband in the bombing that started this whole series, his grief is ever present. It's absolutely beautiful seeing him learning to love again. My favorite part of this story, by far, is the way Rhett deals with Calix's pain. It's remarkable, honorable, and truly amazing.
The virgin/first times aspects of this story are fabulous. It brings the men together, leads to smoking scenes, and helps the two naturally evolve into more than just lovers.
On a personal note, apparently I loathe constant endearments. The author's continued use of "sweetheart" had me ready to gag. That said, in the end it's an important part of their developing relationship. Thus I will give it a pass this time around.
Overall, Click is a fantastic read. Nora Phoenix places the romance front and center, but perfectly weaves the political mystery, suspense, and danger throughout. I can't wait to see what happens next.
January 22, 2021
Not as good as the previous two books IMHO, and I've completely disregarded the 5 star reviews below as I assume they were ARC's from the Author. I didn't get that much of a connection between Cal and Rhett I have to admit, we had insta-love [a matter of days I think] and Rhett seemed to be unbelievably innocent to me for a man of 32.
Yes, the investigation into former President Markinson's death is progressing...albeit of necessity at a snail's pace, Seth and Coulsdon are front and centre of the investigative team, and proof has emerged that this 'conspiracy' seems to include very powerful people who have no qualms whatsoever in disposing of their 'underlings', regardless of their position. My theory from the first story Press as to whom is responsible for the murder AND the Pride parade bombings 5 years earlier is proving to be quite a good call, but I have no actual clue as to who the top dog is...have we met him/her/them yet 🤔??
As usual, we had grammatical errors, incorrect verb tenses and wrong words...oh, and a word that doesn't exist [at least in my English dictionary], that word being unclarity. For goodness sake, PLEASE employ a professional editor!!
Yes, the investigation into former President Markinson's death is progressing...albeit of necessity at a snail's pace, Seth and Coulsdon are front and centre of the investigative team, and proof has emerged that this 'conspiracy' seems to include very powerful people who have no qualms whatsoever in disposing of their 'underlings', regardless of their position. My theory from the first story Press as to whom is responsible for the murder AND the Pride parade bombings 5 years earlier is proving to be quite a good call, but I have no actual clue as to who the top dog is...have we met him/her/them yet 🤔??
As usual, we had grammatical errors, incorrect verb tenses and wrong words...oh, and a word that doesn't exist [at least in my English dictionary], that word being unclarity. For goodness sake, PLEASE employ a professional editor!!
January 13, 2025
Voto: 4.5
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
Continua la serie ambientata alla Casa Bianca: se nel primo libro avevamo un giornalista e il corrispondente della Casa Bianca come protagonisti, nel secondo due agenti speciali, uno dell’FBI e l’altro guardia del corpo della famiglia presidenziale, adesso tocca al bel fotografo Rhett e al suo capo Calix.
Li avevamo già conosciuti, visto che Rhett è il migliore amico nonché coinquilino di Levar, mentre Calix è il capo anche di Levar.
Come tutte le coppie che li hanno preceduti, Calix e Rhett sono legati a un filo sin dal giorno dell’attentato che ha cambiato per sempre l’America.
Calix è rimasto vedovo durante quell’attentato, ha perso il grande amore della sua vita, Matthew, e Rhett ha scattato la foto che ritrae proprio l’ultimo istante di vita di Matthew tra le braccia del suo Calix…
Rhett col senno di poi non avrebbe voluto rubare un momento così intimo, ma in quell’istante il dolore di Calix per la perdita del compagno di vita era un’immagine troppo potente da ignorare e doveva essere mostrata al mondo intero.
Continua sul nostro blog!
RECENSIONE A CURA DI LADY MARMELADE
Continua la serie ambientata alla Casa Bianca: se nel primo libro avevamo un giornalista e il corrispondente della Casa Bianca come protagonisti, nel secondo due agenti speciali, uno dell’FBI e l’altro guardia del corpo della famiglia presidenziale, adesso tocca al bel fotografo Rhett e al suo capo Calix.
Li avevamo già conosciuti, visto che Rhett è il migliore amico nonché coinquilino di Levar, mentre Calix è il capo anche di Levar.
Come tutte le coppie che li hanno preceduti, Calix e Rhett sono legati a un filo sin dal giorno dell’attentato che ha cambiato per sempre l’America.
Calix è rimasto vedovo durante quell’attentato, ha perso il grande amore della sua vita, Matthew, e Rhett ha scattato la foto che ritrae proprio l’ultimo istante di vita di Matthew tra le braccia del suo Calix…
Rhett col senno di poi non avrebbe voluto rubare un momento così intimo, ma in quell’istante il dolore di Calix per la perdita del compagno di vita era un’immagine troppo potente da ignorare e doveva essere mostrata al mondo intero.
Continua sul nostro blog!
January 14, 2021
Hands down my favorite of the series so far! This book was just so good. Calix and Rhett...sigh...they just melted my heart. The tropes here were some of my favorites--virgin, age gap, first times--and they were handled so beautifully. The interactions between Calix and Rhett, both in and out of the bedroom (which were very steamy and filled with lots of fantastic dirty talk!), were so tender, so caring, so loving, and so touching. This was so much deeper than them dating and falling in love. This was them each finding the right person to help them heal and help them live and love and trust again, after the horrible bombing changed both of their lives forever. The natural progression and evolution of their relationship just put the biggest smile on my face!
The relationship was front and center in this book and I loved that so much. But the ongoing mystery still continued to evolve, as more information was discovered, and was expertly woven into the story. We got wonderful page time with Seth and Coulson, Henley and Levar, the President and his wife and brother-in-law ( I loved Milan, he is a fabulous character!). As each clue is revealed, the plot continues to thicken and I become more and more sucked into this fabulous series! I am so looking forward to the next book!
The relationship was front and center in this book and I loved that so much. But the ongoing mystery still continued to evolve, as more information was discovered, and was expertly woven into the story. We got wonderful page time with Seth and Coulson, Henley and Levar, the President and his wife and brother-in-law ( I loved Milan, he is a fabulous character!). As each clue is revealed, the plot continues to thicken and I become more and more sucked into this fabulous series! I am so looking forward to the next book!
January 19, 2021
Wow....Click is another great installment in this series. Both Rhett and Calix are so beautifully broken. Loved both MC's. The way Calix gives Rhett confidence and the way Rhett acknowledges Calix's late husband is beautiful.
The ongoing murder investigations is so intriguing. Could barely put the book down. Looking forward to the next.
The ongoing murder investigations is so intriguing. Could barely put the book down. Looking forward to the next.
January 22, 2021
Sweet
Calix and Rhett are so sweet together! They both have damage from the bombing, but they also give each other space to heal from that damage and to be healthier over all.
I want them to have forever.
Also? I am loving the longer storyline, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
Calix and Rhett are so sweet together! They both have damage from the bombing, but they also give each other space to heal from that damage and to be healthier over all.
I want them to have forever.
Also? I am loving the longer storyline, and I can't wait to see what comes next.
May 3, 2025
4.75/5 stars! There was still a lot of chemistry and spice in this book, but it focused more on the sweetness of healing from grief and gaining confidence in who you want to be moving forward. Rhett and Calix were adorable and it was beautifully written. I need to know what happens next with the intrigue of who is behind the bombings. Off to book 4.
July 16, 2024
Again, this was a great and emotional one 💖
November 9, 2024
Quattro stelline e mezzo.
September 22, 2024
4.5⭐️
Calix Musgrove (47 ans) et Rhett Foles (32 ans)
Chef de cabinet du Président, mari mort lors de l'attentat, meilleur ami du Président et de Milan, et, photographe, meilleur ami de Levar
Age gap gay Romance, MM, vierge
Found Family
Politique
Attentat, meutre
Henley Platt (journaliste)
Levar Cousins (Attaché de presse du Président)
Delano (Del) Shafer (Président, marié a Sarah, meilleur ami de Calix et Milan)
Sarah Bradbury Shafer (Première dame, femme de Delano)
Kennedy Shafer (fils du Président, 22ans, sage/calme, étudiant)
Warrick Duvall (professeur de droit et tuteur de Kenn Shafer)
Asher Wylie (agent special, Dom expérimenté, bisexuel et poly)
Milan Bradbury (frère de la première dame et l'un des amis les plus proches du président, Dom expérimenté)
Coulson Padman (43ans) et Seth Rodecker
Agent du FBI et agent des services secrets
Demisexuel et pan, homo avant fascination pour les grosse queue
Hal (alias Silver Daddy, daddy dom)
Matthew (mari de Calix, mort lors de l'attentat, assistant des services sociaux)
William (Bill) Markinson ('ancien président)
Annabeth Markinson (veuve du président Markinson)
Rogue (le premier chien)🐶
___
Une si belle histoire d'amour au milieu de cette intrigue à suspense au rythme effréné.
On retrouve Henley et Levar ainsi que Coulson et Seth.
On retrouve tout ce beau monde et on explore keur evolution en couple en ensemble comme une grande famille.
___
Les deux premiers livres commencent tous les deux de la même manière, avec un prologue : il y a cinq ans, il y a eu un attentat terroriste. Trois bombes ont explosé lors de la Pride Parade à New York.
Ce jour-là, Calix a perdu son mari, l'amour de sa vie. Et Rhett, un photographe, a immortalisé les horreurs qu'il a vues avec son appareil photo - et il a également pris une photo de Calix et de son mari mourant, Matthew. Cette photo a fait le tour du monde.
Maintenant Rhett est le photographe de la Maison Blanche et il capture tous les moments importants à la Maison Blanche et le travail important du président après avoir pris le contrôle de la Maison Blanche après l'assassinat de l'ancien président.
Maintenant que Levar a trouvé Henley, Rhett réalise qu'il est temps pour lui de s'appuyer autant sur Levar et qu'il doit déployer ses propres ailes et voler. C'est là que Calix entre en jeu. Ces deux-là, considérant tous deux ce que l'autre a traversé ces dernières années, sont très tendres et prudents l'un envers l'autre et ils tombent amoureux l'un de l'autre.
Rhett est fatigué que tout le monde le traite comme s'il était fragile et il est prêt à faire sa propre vie et à se trouver un petit ami.
Sa première étape est de se faire des amis, même si cela implique son patron Calix, qui a quinze ans de plus que lui et qui est le second et le meilleur ami du président. Calix est gentil, protecteur et encourage Rhett à déployer ses ailes, ce qui signifie également l'aider à trouver une relation si c'est ce qu'il faut pour que Rhett reprenne sa vie en main.
Pendant ce temps, Calix pleure toujours son défunt mari qu'il a perdu lors de l'attentat de la fierté cinq ans plus tôt, et n'est pas encore prêt à passer à autre chose car la perte brutale de son mari l'a lourdement affecté, mais cela ne l'empêche pas de développer une amitié avec Rhett.
Pendant ce temps, l'enquête sur l'assassinat du président et l'attentat de la fierté continue d'avancer et nous découvrons le travail fastidieux visant à découvrir qui se cache derrière ces attaques et quel en est le but.
📖
Il ne veut pas seulement l'amitié ou les avantages. Il veut tout.
Rhett, le photographe de la Maison Blanche, en a assez que tout le monde le traite comme s'il était fragile. Il veut une vie à lui. Pointer sa carte de visite. Un petit ami.
Se faire de nouveaux amis est une bonne première étape, même si c'est avec son patron, Calix, qui a quinze ans de plus que lui. Calix est gentil et protecteur, et il encourage Rhett à déployer ses ailes.
Lorsque Rhett trébuche, Calix est là pour le rattraper, et ce qui a commencé comme une amitié se transforme en un arrangement mutuellement bénéfique. Des amis avec des avantages. En quelque sorte.
Mais Calix pleure toujours son mari décédé, alors que se passe-t-il lorsque Rhett veut prolonger leur arrangement... indéfiniment ? Il ne veut pas seulement l'amitié ou les avantages. Il veut tout.
Pendant ce temps, l’enquête continue et le complot devient de plus en plus compliqué… et dangereux. Jusqu’où iront les terroristes pour atteindre leur objectif ?
📚
🖋
Il baissa son appareil photo et les étudia. Le président Shafer était assis derrière le célèbre bureau Resolute, qui avait figuré sur de nombreuses photographies emblématiques. Il n'avait qu'à penser à la photo du petit JFK Junior caché sous le bureau de son père pour se rendre compte de l'importance historique de son travail. Et à défaut d'autre chose, l'assassinat du président Markinson lui avait rappelé cette réalité. La vie était fragile, un fait dont il s'était rendu compte depuis l'attentat de la Pride. Avant cela, la vie avait été facile, insouciante, heureuse, mais cet horrible événement avait tout changé.
N'était-ce pas étrange de voir à quel point leurs vies avaient convergé ? Le président Shafer et Calix avaient tous deux assisté à la Pride Parade ce jour-là, tout comme Levar et Henley, et même Seth Rodecker, l'agent des services secrets. Le petit ami de Seth, Coulson Padman, avait été l'un des premiers agents du FBI sur les lieux. Leurs vies avaient été irrémédiablement bouleversées et leurs chemins s'étaient à nouveau croisés dans l'endroit le plus improbable qui soit : la Maison Blanche.
Mais il y avait tellement de liens entre eux. Comment aurait-il pu savoir que la photo qu'il avait prise ce jour-là, la scène déchirante d'un homme tenant son mari mourant dans ses bras, allait remporter le World Press Photo ? Rhett avait immortalisé Calix et son mari, Matthew, et chaque fois qu'il parlait à Calix, il se sentait coupable. Calix ne lui en voulait pas et l'avait même remercié d'avoir pris cette photo, mais Rhett avait du mal à lâcher prise. Peut-être aurait-il dû garder cette photo pour lui. Elle avait été trop personnelle, trop intime pour être partagée. Mais cela n'avait plus d'importance maintenant, car il ne pourrait jamais revenir sur sa décision.
Ce jour-là, Levar et Henley s'étaient rencontrés pour la première fois, même si Levar ne s'en souvenait pas avant que Henley ne le lui raconte. Et Coulson avait rendu visite à Seth à l'hôpital pour recueillir sa déclaration et la description d'un des kamikazes que Seth avait vu.
Juste après l'explosion des bombes, Rhett avait pris des photos du président Shafer, qui était alors sénateur, qui prenait rapidement les choses en main et coordonnait courageusement les opérations de secours. Même à ce moment-là, le leadership de cet homme était incontestable et ses actions héroïques avaient certainement contribué à sa popularité et à son accession à la vice-présidence.
Leurs vies étaient toutes liées et, dans ses moments de réflexion – et Rhett admettait volontiers qu’il en avait eu pas mal –, il se demandait si l’univers les avait réunis délibérément. D’une certaine manière, l’idée que cela serve un but plus élevé rendait la souffrance un peu plus facile. Pas seulement la sienne, même s’il luttait encore contre les séquelles du bombardement, mais aussi celle de tous les autres. Cela n’avait laissé aucun d’entre eux indifférent.
Il prit encore quelques photos, puis éteignit son appareil photo et le rangea dans son sac. Le président avait l'air fatigué. Pas étonnant avec un travail comme celui-là. Rhett n'était pas sûr du nombre d'heures de sommeil que l'homme avait pu passer, mais il ne pouvait pas dormir plus de cinq heures de manière régulière. Être président était un défi en soi, mais être jeté dans ce travail comme l'avait été le président Shafer ? Un cauchemar du plus haut niveau.
Rhett s'est échappé du bureau ovale, le président et le chef de cabinet n'ont même pas levé les yeux alors qu'ils continuaient à discuter de... quelque chose. Il n'en avait aucune idée.
.
« Cal, je retourne à l'Oval. J'ai une réunion dans quelques minutes. »
« Le leadership du Congrès, n'est-ce pas ? »
Le président leva les yeux au ciel. « Oui. J'attends cela avec impatience, comme vous pouvez l'imaginer. Si vous en avez l'occasion, venez un peu, s'il vous plaît. Vous pourrez peut-être apaiser quelques craintes. »
« Tu m'as vraiment convaincu là-dessus. »
« Heureusement que tu es sous ma responsabilité. Quelque chose à propos du fait de servir à la discrétion du président, si je me souviens bien. »
Del riait toujours en quittant la pièce, et Calix secoua la tête en gloussant. Il avait eu tellement de chance de travailler pour son meilleur ami. Cela n'allège pas le stress du travail, mais le rend plus facile à supporter.
Il grimaça lorsqu'une douleur lancinante lui traversa le cou. Fermant les yeux, il se lança dans sa routine habituelle d'étirements, espérant que cela produirait ce petit bruit satisfaisant qui relâcherait la tension. Mais peu importe à quel point il s'étirait, il n'y parvenait pas. Il soupira. Il était temps de prendre un autre rendez-vous avec le chiropracteur.
« Est-ce que ton cou te fait mal ? »
Les yeux de Calix s'ouvrirent brusquement. Il avait complètement oublié Rhett, qui avait discrètement démonté son équipement. « C'est une vieille blessure qui me fait beaucoup souffrir ces derniers temps. »
Rhett se mordit la lèvre. Calix n'eut aucun mal à lire dans ses pensées et son visage s'adoucit. « Oui, ça vient du bombardement. Plusieurs fragments se sont incrustés dans mon cou, causant des lésions musculaires et nerveuses permanentes qui se manifestent régulièrement. »
« Je suis désolé. Je ne voulais pas évoquer de mauvais souvenirs. »
Il s'excusait toujours autant, comme si la simple évocation de ce jour pouvait briser Calix. Ce jour-là n'avait plus ce pouvoir, mais l'attention de Rhett le touchait. « Tu ne l'as pas fait. Je peux en parler, alors tu n'as pas à t'inquiéter d'en parler, surtout pas dans une conversation privée comme celle-ci. J'admets que ce n'est pas quelque chose dont j'aime parler en public, mais avec toi, c'est différent. »
.
Le sourire de Hal était chaleureux. « Un rendez-vous avec un beau garçon n'est jamais une perte de temps pour moi. »
Cela ne fit que légèrement se sentir mieux pour Rhett. « Merci. Mais je suis quand même désolé. »
« Ce n'est pas grave. On peut juste discuter, n'est-ce pas ? Il n'y a pas de mal à ça. Alors dis-moi ce que tu cherches, si ce n'est pas un papa… »
Rhett n'était pas sûr que ce soit la gentillesse sincère dans les yeux de Hal, mais soudain, il se sentit suffisamment en sécurité pour dire la vérité. « Je… Je ne l'ai jamais fait. » Il baissa la voix. « Du sexe, je veux dire. Donc je suppose que je cherche quelqu'un pour être mon premier. »
Hal n'a jamais raté une occasion. « Je ne peux pas te dire à quel point je suis honoré que tu m'aies considéré pour ça. Mais ce ne serait pas juste pour nous deux. Je ne cherche pas quelque chose de décontracté... et tu ne cherches pas un papa. »
« Des conseils pour trouver le bon gars ? » soupira Rhett.
Hal posa sa main sur celle de Rhett. « Oui. Ne te contente pas de ce que tu veux. N'en fais pas quelque chose de mesquin que tu regretteras toute ta vie. Attends de trouver l'homme qu'il te faut. »
« J’ai l’impression d’avoir fait ça toute ma vie, d’où ma situation difficile. »
« Alors attends encore un peu. Crois-moi, tu sauras quand tu auras trouvé l'homme qui te mérite. »
.
« Je le ferai », lâcha-t-il, et tout autour de lui disparut à l'arrière-plan, à l'exception de la bouche béante et des yeux exorbités de Rhett. Mais qu'est-ce qu'il faisait ? Mais maintenant qu'il avait prononcé ces mots, il savait qu'ils étaient justes et vrais et que c'était la seule solution. « Je le ferai. Ta première fois. Je ferai de cette expérience la plus spéciale de ta vie. »
Rhett cligna des yeux. « Tu ne peux pas… Tu ne peux pas me proposer ça comme ça. C’est… Je ne veux pas de pitié. Et tu es mon patron. Ce serait mal. »
Calix respira profondément. Il n'aurait jamais dû aborder le sujet au milieu de la rue, mais le bateau avait pris la mer. « Commençons par le dernier point. Je ne suis plus ton patron. C'est le président qui l'est. Et même si cela peut te mettre mal à l'aise, je vais lui demander sa permission. Pas dans les détails, pas sur ce que j'ai proposé, mais je vais lui demander la permission de… je ne sais pas, de sortir avec toi ? D'avoir une relation avec toi ? Quel que soit le terme que tu souhaites utiliser. »
La bouche de Rhett s'ouvrit, puis se referma, puis s'ouvrit à nouveau comme un poisson qui cherche de l'air. « Tu veux demander au président des États-Unis la permission de me baiser ? »
.
Il sourit à travers ses larmes en voyant la photo. Tant de bons souvenirs. « Je suis amoureux, bébé », murmura-t-il. « Je suis amoureux de l'homme le plus doux, le plus gentil et le plus mignon qui soit. Tu l'aurais aimé. Je sais que tu l'aurais aimé. Et je suis prêt à commencer ma vie avec lui, mais je te promets que je t'aimerai toujours. Tu es dans mon cœur, bébé, et tu le seras toujours. Tu me manques tellement. Merci pour la vie merveilleuse que j'ai eue avec toi, pour tous les souvenirs. Tu étais aimée. Tu étais tellement aimée. »
🖋
Calix Musgrove (47 ans) et Rhett Foles (32 ans)
Chef de cabinet du Président, mari mort lors de l'attentat, meilleur ami du Président et de Milan, et, photographe, meilleur ami de Levar
Age gap gay Romance, MM, vierge
Found Family
Politique
Attentat, meutre
Henley Platt (journaliste)
Levar Cousins (Attaché de presse du Président)
Delano (Del) Shafer (Président, marié a Sarah, meilleur ami de Calix et Milan)
Sarah Bradbury Shafer (Première dame, femme de Delano)
Kennedy Shafer (fils du Président, 22ans, sage/calme, étudiant)
Warrick Duvall (professeur de droit et tuteur de Kenn Shafer)
Asher Wylie (agent special, Dom expérimenté, bisexuel et poly)
Milan Bradbury (frère de la première dame et l'un des amis les plus proches du président, Dom expérimenté)
Coulson Padman (43ans) et Seth Rodecker
Agent du FBI et agent des services secrets
Demisexuel et pan, homo avant fascination pour les grosse queue
Hal (alias Silver Daddy, daddy dom)
Matthew (mari de Calix, mort lors de l'attentat, assistant des services sociaux)
William (Bill) Markinson ('ancien président)
Annabeth Markinson (veuve du président Markinson)
Rogue (le premier chien)🐶
___
Une si belle histoire d'amour au milieu de cette intrigue à suspense au rythme effréné.
On retrouve Henley et Levar ainsi que Coulson et Seth.
On retrouve tout ce beau monde et on explore keur evolution en couple en ensemble comme une grande famille.
___
Les deux premiers livres commencent tous les deux de la même manière, avec un prologue : il y a cinq ans, il y a eu un attentat terroriste. Trois bombes ont explosé lors de la Pride Parade à New York.
Ce jour-là, Calix a perdu son mari, l'amour de sa vie. Et Rhett, un photographe, a immortalisé les horreurs qu'il a vues avec son appareil photo - et il a également pris une photo de Calix et de son mari mourant, Matthew. Cette photo a fait le tour du monde.
Maintenant Rhett est le photographe de la Maison Blanche et il capture tous les moments importants à la Maison Blanche et le travail important du président après avoir pris le contrôle de la Maison Blanche après l'assassinat de l'ancien président.
Maintenant que Levar a trouvé Henley, Rhett réalise qu'il est temps pour lui de s'appuyer autant sur Levar et qu'il doit déployer ses propres ailes et voler. C'est là que Calix entre en jeu. Ces deux-là, considérant tous deux ce que l'autre a traversé ces dernières années, sont très tendres et prudents l'un envers l'autre et ils tombent amoureux l'un de l'autre.
Rhett est fatigué que tout le monde le traite comme s'il était fragile et il est prêt à faire sa propre vie et à se trouver un petit ami.
Sa première étape est de se faire des amis, même si cela implique son patron Calix, qui a quinze ans de plus que lui et qui est le second et le meilleur ami du président. Calix est gentil, protecteur et encourage Rhett à déployer ses ailes, ce qui signifie également l'aider à trouver une relation si c'est ce qu'il faut pour que Rhett reprenne sa vie en main.
Pendant ce temps, Calix pleure toujours son défunt mari qu'il a perdu lors de l'attentat de la fierté cinq ans plus tôt, et n'est pas encore prêt à passer à autre chose car la perte brutale de son mari l'a lourdement affecté, mais cela ne l'empêche pas de développer une amitié avec Rhett.
Pendant ce temps, l'enquête sur l'assassinat du président et l'attentat de la fierté continue d'avancer et nous découvrons le travail fastidieux visant à découvrir qui se cache derrière ces attaques et quel en est le but.
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Il ne veut pas seulement l'amitié ou les avantages. Il veut tout.
Rhett, le photographe de la Maison Blanche, en a assez que tout le monde le traite comme s'il était fragile. Il veut une vie à lui. Pointer sa carte de visite. Un petit ami.
Se faire de nouveaux amis est une bonne première étape, même si c'est avec son patron, Calix, qui a quinze ans de plus que lui. Calix est gentil et protecteur, et il encourage Rhett à déployer ses ailes.
Lorsque Rhett trébuche, Calix est là pour le rattraper, et ce qui a commencé comme une amitié se transforme en un arrangement mutuellement bénéfique. Des amis avec des avantages. En quelque sorte.
Mais Calix pleure toujours son mari décédé, alors que se passe-t-il lorsque Rhett veut prolonger leur arrangement... indéfiniment ? Il ne veut pas seulement l'amitié ou les avantages. Il veut tout.
Pendant ce temps, l’enquête continue et le complot devient de plus en plus compliqué… et dangereux. Jusqu’où iront les terroristes pour atteindre leur objectif ?
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Il baissa son appareil photo et les étudia. Le président Shafer était assis derrière le célèbre bureau Resolute, qui avait figuré sur de nombreuses photographies emblématiques. Il n'avait qu'à penser à la photo du petit JFK Junior caché sous le bureau de son père pour se rendre compte de l'importance historique de son travail. Et à défaut d'autre chose, l'assassinat du président Markinson lui avait rappelé cette réalité. La vie était fragile, un fait dont il s'était rendu compte depuis l'attentat de la Pride. Avant cela, la vie avait été facile, insouciante, heureuse, mais cet horrible événement avait tout changé.
N'était-ce pas étrange de voir à quel point leurs vies avaient convergé ? Le président Shafer et Calix avaient tous deux assisté à la Pride Parade ce jour-là, tout comme Levar et Henley, et même Seth Rodecker, l'agent des services secrets. Le petit ami de Seth, Coulson Padman, avait été l'un des premiers agents du FBI sur les lieux. Leurs vies avaient été irrémédiablement bouleversées et leurs chemins s'étaient à nouveau croisés dans l'endroit le plus improbable qui soit : la Maison Blanche.
Mais il y avait tellement de liens entre eux. Comment aurait-il pu savoir que la photo qu'il avait prise ce jour-là, la scène déchirante d'un homme tenant son mari mourant dans ses bras, allait remporter le World Press Photo ? Rhett avait immortalisé Calix et son mari, Matthew, et chaque fois qu'il parlait à Calix, il se sentait coupable. Calix ne lui en voulait pas et l'avait même remercié d'avoir pris cette photo, mais Rhett avait du mal à lâcher prise. Peut-être aurait-il dû garder cette photo pour lui. Elle avait été trop personnelle, trop intime pour être partagée. Mais cela n'avait plus d'importance maintenant, car il ne pourrait jamais revenir sur sa décision.
Ce jour-là, Levar et Henley s'étaient rencontrés pour la première fois, même si Levar ne s'en souvenait pas avant que Henley ne le lui raconte. Et Coulson avait rendu visite à Seth à l'hôpital pour recueillir sa déclaration et la description d'un des kamikazes que Seth avait vu.
Juste après l'explosion des bombes, Rhett avait pris des photos du président Shafer, qui était alors sénateur, qui prenait rapidement les choses en main et coordonnait courageusement les opérations de secours. Même à ce moment-là, le leadership de cet homme était incontestable et ses actions héroïques avaient certainement contribué à sa popularité et à son accession à la vice-présidence.
Leurs vies étaient toutes liées et, dans ses moments de réflexion – et Rhett admettait volontiers qu’il en avait eu pas mal –, il se demandait si l’univers les avait réunis délibérément. D’une certaine manière, l’idée que cela serve un but plus élevé rendait la souffrance un peu plus facile. Pas seulement la sienne, même s’il luttait encore contre les séquelles du bombardement, mais aussi celle de tous les autres. Cela n’avait laissé aucun d’entre eux indifférent.
Il prit encore quelques photos, puis éteignit son appareil photo et le rangea dans son sac. Le président avait l'air fatigué. Pas étonnant avec un travail comme celui-là. Rhett n'était pas sûr du nombre d'heures de sommeil que l'homme avait pu passer, mais il ne pouvait pas dormir plus de cinq heures de manière régulière. Être président était un défi en soi, mais être jeté dans ce travail comme l'avait été le président Shafer ? Un cauchemar du plus haut niveau.
Rhett s'est échappé du bureau ovale, le président et le chef de cabinet n'ont même pas levé les yeux alors qu'ils continuaient à discuter de... quelque chose. Il n'en avait aucune idée.
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« Cal, je retourne à l'Oval. J'ai une réunion dans quelques minutes. »
« Le leadership du Congrès, n'est-ce pas ? »
Le président leva les yeux au ciel. « Oui. J'attends cela avec impatience, comme vous pouvez l'imaginer. Si vous en avez l'occasion, venez un peu, s'il vous plaît. Vous pourrez peut-être apaiser quelques craintes. »
« Tu m'as vraiment convaincu là-dessus. »
« Heureusement que tu es sous ma responsabilité. Quelque chose à propos du fait de servir à la discrétion du président, si je me souviens bien. »
Del riait toujours en quittant la pièce, et Calix secoua la tête en gloussant. Il avait eu tellement de chance de travailler pour son meilleur ami. Cela n'allège pas le stress du travail, mais le rend plus facile à supporter.
Il grimaça lorsqu'une douleur lancinante lui traversa le cou. Fermant les yeux, il se lança dans sa routine habituelle d'étirements, espérant que cela produirait ce petit bruit satisfaisant qui relâcherait la tension. Mais peu importe à quel point il s'étirait, il n'y parvenait pas. Il soupira. Il était temps de prendre un autre rendez-vous avec le chiropracteur.
« Est-ce que ton cou te fait mal ? »
Les yeux de Calix s'ouvrirent brusquement. Il avait complètement oublié Rhett, qui avait discrètement démonté son équipement. « C'est une vieille blessure qui me fait beaucoup souffrir ces derniers temps. »
Rhett se mordit la lèvre. Calix n'eut aucun mal à lire dans ses pensées et son visage s'adoucit. « Oui, ça vient du bombardement. Plusieurs fragments se sont incrustés dans mon cou, causant des lésions musculaires et nerveuses permanentes qui se manifestent régulièrement. »
« Je suis désolé. Je ne voulais pas évoquer de mauvais souvenirs. »
Il s'excusait toujours autant, comme si la simple évocation de ce jour pouvait briser Calix. Ce jour-là n'avait plus ce pouvoir, mais l'attention de Rhett le touchait. « Tu ne l'as pas fait. Je peux en parler, alors tu n'as pas à t'inquiéter d'en parler, surtout pas dans une conversation privée comme celle-ci. J'admets que ce n'est pas quelque chose dont j'aime parler en public, mais avec toi, c'est différent. »
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Le sourire de Hal était chaleureux. « Un rendez-vous avec un beau garçon n'est jamais une perte de temps pour moi. »
Cela ne fit que légèrement se sentir mieux pour Rhett. « Merci. Mais je suis quand même désolé. »
« Ce n'est pas grave. On peut juste discuter, n'est-ce pas ? Il n'y a pas de mal à ça. Alors dis-moi ce que tu cherches, si ce n'est pas un papa… »
Rhett n'était pas sûr que ce soit la gentillesse sincère dans les yeux de Hal, mais soudain, il se sentit suffisamment en sécurité pour dire la vérité. « Je… Je ne l'ai jamais fait. » Il baissa la voix. « Du sexe, je veux dire. Donc je suppose que je cherche quelqu'un pour être mon premier. »
Hal n'a jamais raté une occasion. « Je ne peux pas te dire à quel point je suis honoré que tu m'aies considéré pour ça. Mais ce ne serait pas juste pour nous deux. Je ne cherche pas quelque chose de décontracté... et tu ne cherches pas un papa. »
« Des conseils pour trouver le bon gars ? » soupira Rhett.
Hal posa sa main sur celle de Rhett. « Oui. Ne te contente pas de ce que tu veux. N'en fais pas quelque chose de mesquin que tu regretteras toute ta vie. Attends de trouver l'homme qu'il te faut. »
« J’ai l’impression d’avoir fait ça toute ma vie, d’où ma situation difficile. »
« Alors attends encore un peu. Crois-moi, tu sauras quand tu auras trouvé l'homme qui te mérite. »
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« Je le ferai », lâcha-t-il, et tout autour de lui disparut à l'arrière-plan, à l'exception de la bouche béante et des yeux exorbités de Rhett. Mais qu'est-ce qu'il faisait ? Mais maintenant qu'il avait prononcé ces mots, il savait qu'ils étaient justes et vrais et que c'était la seule solution. « Je le ferai. Ta première fois. Je ferai de cette expérience la plus spéciale de ta vie. »
Rhett cligna des yeux. « Tu ne peux pas… Tu ne peux pas me proposer ça comme ça. C’est… Je ne veux pas de pitié. Et tu es mon patron. Ce serait mal. »
Calix respira profondément. Il n'aurait jamais dû aborder le sujet au milieu de la rue, mais le bateau avait pris la mer. « Commençons par le dernier point. Je ne suis plus ton patron. C'est le président qui l'est. Et même si cela peut te mettre mal à l'aise, je vais lui demander sa permission. Pas dans les détails, pas sur ce que j'ai proposé, mais je vais lui demander la permission de… je ne sais pas, de sortir avec toi ? D'avoir une relation avec toi ? Quel que soit le terme que tu souhaites utiliser. »
La bouche de Rhett s'ouvrit, puis se referma, puis s'ouvrit à nouveau comme un poisson qui cherche de l'air. « Tu veux demander au président des États-Unis la permission de me baiser ? »
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Il sourit à travers ses larmes en voyant la photo. Tant de bons souvenirs. « Je suis amoureux, bébé », murmura-t-il. « Je suis amoureux de l'homme le plus doux, le plus gentil et le plus mignon qui soit. Tu l'aurais aimé. Je sais que tu l'aurais aimé. Et je suis prêt à commencer ma vie avec lui, mais je te promets que je t'aimerai toujours. Tu es dans mon cœur, bébé, et tu le seras toujours. Tu me manques tellement. Merci pour la vie merveilleuse que j'ai eue avec toi, pour tous les souvenirs. Tu étais aimée. Tu étais tellement aimée. »
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April 20, 2021
This is the story of Calix, the dashing older Chief of Staff of the POTUS' office, and Rhett, the shy official photographer. It was a nice enough book, but I was more enthralled with the mystery than with the romance, and that is saying a lot. Nevertheless, I enjoyed the book, and would read the rest of the series.
October 1, 2025
Rhett is the White House photographer and he captures all the important moments at the White House and the president's important work after taking over the White House after the assassination of the former president. Rhett carries the burden of what happened at the pride bombing 5 years previously and is best friends with Levar from book one in the series so we get a different look at their friendship as Rhett struggle his way through life as he takes back his life again even tho the mental struggle will always be there lingering. Rhett is tired of everyone treating him like he’s fragile and he’s ready to make a life of his own and get a boyfriend.
His first step is to make friends and even if it involves his boss Calix that’s fifteen years older than him and is the president's second in hand and best friend. Calix is kind, protective and encourages Rhett to spread his wings and that also means helping him find a relationship if that is what it takes for Rhett to take his life back.
Meanwhile, Calix still mourns his late husband that he lost during the pride bombing five years earlier, and is yet to get ready to move on as the brutal loss of his husband impacted him heavily, but it does not stop him from developing a friendship with Rhett.
Meanwhile, the investigation of the assassination of the president and the pride bombing still moves forward and we get a look into the tedious work to uncover who is behind the attacks and what the goal of it all is.
this is a beautifully written story with a bit of hurt/comfort, a loving friendship, an age gap, and a sweet virgin story that was captivating from page one to the end. with some political storyline that balances out the story alongside the love story that slowly forms between the two main characters. this is a book I will defiantly read again and the audiobook narrated by John Solo made the emotional side of the story from start to finish stunningly beautiful.
His first step is to make friends and even if it involves his boss Calix that’s fifteen years older than him and is the president's second in hand and best friend. Calix is kind, protective and encourages Rhett to spread his wings and that also means helping him find a relationship if that is what it takes for Rhett to take his life back.
Meanwhile, Calix still mourns his late husband that he lost during the pride bombing five years earlier, and is yet to get ready to move on as the brutal loss of his husband impacted him heavily, but it does not stop him from developing a friendship with Rhett.
Meanwhile, the investigation of the assassination of the president and the pride bombing still moves forward and we get a look into the tedious work to uncover who is behind the attacks and what the goal of it all is.
this is a beautifully written story with a bit of hurt/comfort, a loving friendship, an age gap, and a sweet virgin story that was captivating from page one to the end. with some political storyline that balances out the story alongside the love story that slowly forms between the two main characters. this is a book I will defiantly read again and the audiobook narrated by John Solo made the emotional side of the story from start to finish stunningly beautiful.
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