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Blackbridge Security #10
Crossing Borders
7 hours, 4 minutes
Although I take my job very seriously—being the resident charmer, the man responsible for helping clients with security, all the while making it look like I’m the newest love interest of insanely gorgeous women—it looks like it’s all fun and games.
I’m getting paid to go on dates to some of the most glamorous places all around the world after all, but at the end of the day, it’s still work.
When the assignment is over, I walk away—usually with a smile and another notch in my bedpost, but who am I to turn down the perks?
This new assignment should be no different. I can play any role handed to me.
Hell, I love a new challenge.
Only Archer Bremen is different… and not just for the obvious reasons.
His British accent hits me in a way I never expected.
The scowl on his face makes me think of a million things I could do to make it fade.
His smile tells me that this new assignment is going to change everything…
©2022 Marie James (P)2022 Marie James
Although I take my job very seriously—being the resident charmer, the man responsible for helping clients with security, all the while making it look like I’m the newest love interest of insanely gorgeous women—it looks like it’s all fun and games.
I’m getting paid to go on dates to some of the most glamorous places all around the world after all, but at the end of the day, it’s still work.
When the assignment is over, I walk away—usually with a smile and another notch in my bedpost, but who am I to turn down the perks?
This new assignment should be no different. I can play any role handed to me.
Hell, I love a new challenge.
Only Archer Bremen is different… and not just for the obvious reasons.
His British accent hits me in a way I never expected.
The scowl on his face makes me think of a million things I could do to make it fade.
His smile tells me that this new assignment is going to change everything…
©2022 Marie James (P)2022 Marie James
7 pages, Audible Audio
First published May 24, 2022
204 people are currently reading
427 people want to read
About the author
Marie James
103 books2,917 followersMarie James is a mother of two boys and wife of 17 years. She's spent most of her life lifetime living in central Texas, with only short stays in South Carolina, Alabama, and Florida. Her passions include reading everything under the sun and sewing, although she doesn't get to sew much these days!.
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
Writing has always been a passion and she's enjoying every step of the journey!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 160 reviews
June 25, 2022
Audio - 5 stars
Story 3.5 stars
Story 3.5 stars
June 12, 2022
5+++++ stars audio!!
2 waste of awesome narrators stars story. The story lacked depth. The angst felt forced and totally childish. The relationship development was mostly off page. And the sex scenes were meh at best.
2 waste of awesome narrators stars story. The story lacked depth. The angst felt forced and totally childish. The relationship development was mostly off page. And the sex scenes were meh at best.
June 9, 2022
Marie James closes out the Blackbridge Series with a bang, My Favorite book of the Series! I couldn't get enough of Brooks and Archer and I didn't want to put the book down...I really wish I could give this MM read more than 5 stars it was just that good. This book overlaps the last few that have been released so now we know what was happening with Brooks during that time thru the present and we get his side of things as they unfold.
Archer Bremen's life has just been blown up in the media and not in a good way so he enlists the help of Blackbridge Security, Brooks Morgan's specialty in particular...he needs security while pretending to be in a fake relationship. This is nothing new for Brooks but it's the first time he would be playing the boyfriend of a man. The chemistry is great and nothing can top their first meeting...that was hilarious!
I have loved this series and I couldn't wait until we got to Brooks' story, well that's not exactly true because I knew once we did the series would be over but I really really wanted to see how things were playing out for him because of everything he had been through recently. If you haven't read previous books I would suggest not reading this one first because it will give away many spoilers from previous books - like who comes into the office with a fake bomb strapped to her, who has the best foul mouthed bird that steals every scene he's written into (I love Puff Daddy), who has a son that he knew nothing about, and so much more. But if you choose to read this as a standalone you totally can.
I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Steamy MM Romances, Rockstar Romances, Bodyguard/Client Romances, or the Fake Relationship Trope.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewCB10
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Archer Bremen's life has just been blown up in the media and not in a good way so he enlists the help of Blackbridge Security, Brooks Morgan's specialty in particular...he needs security while pretending to be in a fake relationship. This is nothing new for Brooks but it's the first time he would be playing the boyfriend of a man. The chemistry is great and nothing can top their first meeting...that was hilarious!
I have loved this series and I couldn't wait until we got to Brooks' story, well that's not exactly true because I knew once we did the series would be over but I really really wanted to see how things were playing out for him because of everything he had been through recently. If you haven't read previous books I would suggest not reading this one first because it will give away many spoilers from previous books - like who comes into the office with a fake bomb strapped to her, who has the best foul mouthed bird that steals every scene he's written into (I love Puff Daddy), who has a son that he knew nothing about, and so much more. But if you choose to read this as a standalone you totally can.
I would recommend this book to those that enjoy Steamy MM Romances, Rockstar Romances, Bodyguard/Client Romances, or the Fake Relationship Trope.
Happy Reading!!!
Find out more here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewCB10
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
June 9, 2022
Brooks was an awesome character, we have to say we loved seeing the charmer and ladies man quite flustered time and time again. The mighty have fallen.
Archer was a character that we loved his sense of humor and his teasing when it came to goading Brooks.Archer, a character misunderstood not your typical rock star he maybe a little lost far from perfect but, we loved the fact he was taking control of his life once again and trying to make himself happy.
I have to say, from the moment Brooks and Archer started interacting with once another, there was always some sort of underlying chemistry sizzling between them. Brooks protests a lot within his head and heart not to go there with Archer but, we really think it was more that he didn't know what to do and how to act upon or with his attraction as he has never been in this type of situation being attracted to a man before.
Honestly, we loved Brooks and Archer as a couple, we thought they were perfect for one another their chemistry was awesome but, plain and simple they were the soother for each other's souls.
We loved this story as it had a lot of heartache and pain, funny at times and about rediscovering one self.Brooks and Archer's journey to finding themselves and love and happiness was a rocky do to a lot of miscommunication and had tons of ups and downs, which made the story even more addicting, and we loved all the messy bits, and you will too.
Archer was a character that we loved his sense of humor and his teasing when it came to goading Brooks.Archer, a character misunderstood not your typical rock star he maybe a little lost far from perfect but, we loved the fact he was taking control of his life once again and trying to make himself happy.
I have to say, from the moment Brooks and Archer started interacting with once another, there was always some sort of underlying chemistry sizzling between them. Brooks protests a lot within his head and heart not to go there with Archer but, we really think it was more that he didn't know what to do and how to act upon or with his attraction as he has never been in this type of situation being attracted to a man before.
Honestly, we loved Brooks and Archer as a couple, we thought they were perfect for one another their chemistry was awesome but, plain and simple they were the soother for each other's souls.
We loved this story as it had a lot of heartache and pain, funny at times and about rediscovering one self.Brooks and Archer's journey to finding themselves and love and happiness was a rocky do to a lot of miscommunication and had tons of ups and downs, which made the story even more addicting, and we loved all the messy bits, and you will too.
October 15, 2022
The only M/M story in the series... Blackbridge Security, #10, St. Louis, MO.
To Brooks, Archer is an annoyance! It's not love at first sight, for sure.
* Brooks is a bodyguard at the security firm,
short dark hair, big and hunky, blue eyes, a short trimmed beard, and he's straight, and will act as a fake boyfriend to undo the rock star's bad publicity.
* Archer, a rock god, British accent,
a fluffy dog named Princess, is "outed" with devastating rumors which leaves him all alone. He needs damage control.
Archer's therapy, paparazzi, close quarters, and irritations have begun, and Brooks escorts him everywhere. Archer, is attracted and flirts with Brooks. We see the issues with Archer's life coming apart, and is Brooks finding himself attracted to Archer. This has never happened to him before, and his thoughts go deep.
Gradually, Archer accepts Brooks into his life as a helper, but he never lets up with the flirting, and Brooks is reacting. They succumb to the hot sexual times, and neither can get enough. It so different than either has felt.
This is a fun story with terrific characters and hot romance. The issues each man has is a bumpy road, but talking finally sets things upright.
I did not read the M/F tales in this series, because it was the M/M romance that drew me.
This story can stand alone.
ENJOY !
=======
To Brooks, Archer is an annoyance! It's not love at first sight, for sure.
* Brooks is a bodyguard at the security firm,
short dark hair, big and hunky, blue eyes, a short trimmed beard, and he's straight, and will act as a fake boyfriend to undo the rock star's bad publicity.
* Archer, a rock god, British accent,
a fluffy dog named Princess, is "outed" with devastating rumors which leaves him all alone. He needs damage control.
Archer's therapy, paparazzi, close quarters, and irritations have begun, and Brooks escorts him everywhere. Archer, is attracted and flirts with Brooks. We see the issues with Archer's life coming apart, and is Brooks finding himself attracted to Archer. This has never happened to him before, and his thoughts go deep.
Gradually, Archer accepts Brooks into his life as a helper, but he never lets up with the flirting, and Brooks is reacting. They succumb to the hot sexual times, and neither can get enough. It so different than either has felt.
This is a fun story with terrific characters and hot romance. The issues each man has is a bumpy road, but talking finally sets things upright.
I did not read the M/F tales in this series, because it was the M/M romance that drew me.
This story can stand alone.
ENJOY !
=======
October 2, 2023
I've given this an A- for narration and a C for content at AudioGals.
I really wish North American authors would learn that there is NO SUCH THING as a British accent, and would stop using it when they really mean an (RP) ENGLISH accent. Calling it a British accent is like me saying that someone from Brazil has an American accent - because they're from America!
Crossing Borders is the tenth and final (and only m/m) book in Marie James’ Blackbridge Security series; no prizes for guessing why I’d skip over the first nine to pick this one up. It’s perfectly possible to listen to it, as I did, as a complete newbie to the series because while characters from the other books make cameos and references are made to past/concurrent events, there’s only one event that has a real impact on this story (and is dealt with in this story), so provided you don’t mind hearing from characters you haven’t met before, it’s all fine. The other good news is that – of course – the narration is excellent – the bad is that these two fabulous performers have yet to find new material that is the best use of their considerable talent.
That said, Crossing Borders is at least a step up from the last book they narrated that I tried to listen to (I gave up at 25% because I was so BORED) and on the last book they narrated that I reviewed; in fact it started really well, so that for the first half I thought I’d be looking at a solid B grade for the story. But, alas, the second half rehashes the same misunderstandings over and over again, includes a totally ridiculous plot point, and generally loses its way, ignoring some of the interesting things I thought were being set up to show character insight and growth.
Okay, so… it seems that Blackbridge Security offers two types of personal protection detail. One is your common-or-garden bodyguard, who stands around looking intimidating, acts as driver and whatever else is required. The other is where the bodyguard acts as the protectee’s significant other to provide a less obvious presence – and it’s those jobs that are Brooks Morgan’s speciality. As per the book blurb, he gets paid to make it “look like I’m the newest love interest of insanely gorgeous women” – and all his clients so far have been women – and then often indulges in a little off-the-clock action when the contract ends (because of course, it would be unprofessional to sleep with a client.)
Archer Bremen is a bad-boy rock star whose public image imploded after photos were leaked of him in “intimate moments” (i.e, giving him a blow job)with his long-time best friend and band-mate, Fletcher Corbin. As if being outed in that way wasn’t bad enough though, he made things worse, going along with what he was told to say by his manager, which was that he was high on drugs and booze and all but accusing Fletcher of taking advantage of him. Archer has since sacked that manager, and the plan now is to rehabilitate his image by showing him in an actual relationship with a guy – which is where Brooks comes in. He can protect Archer from rabid fans and intrusive paparazzi while pretending to be his boyfriend, and being seen together will show that Archer is no longer denying that he’s gay.
Brooks doesn’t turn a hair when he agrees to the job – why should he? Being a fake-boyfriend is what he does, while Archer – as is standard for so many bodyguard/client romances – decides to make things as awkward as possible. On the very first day – their very first meeting – when Brooks has arrived to collect him, Archer swans downstairs in his birthday suit and gives Brooks a show, jerking off in front of him. Okay, so he’s hurt, he doesn’t know where to turn or where he goes from here and he’s acting out – but still.
The first part of the story (after the jerking off) is actually nicely done, showing a growing friendship between the pair, an understanding on Brooks’ part as to why Archer behaved that way and an acknowledgement that Archer wants and is trying to do better. The author refers several times to the realities of Archer’s life, that he learned early on that the way to stay safe was to be a people pleaser, that he never knows whether someone is genuinely into him or just after what he can do for them, about his being lonely while surrounded by people, and I was hopeful that we’d get a deeper exploration of this as the story went on. But that never happens.
I don’t think it’s too spoilery to say that by the mid-point, all the longing looks and glancing touches and near-but-not-quite kisses and sexual tension finally come to a head and Brooks and Archer fall into bed together – and a good time is had by all. I like that Brooks doesn’t freak out too much about being attracted to another man – he recalls fooling around with a guy in college; what he does freak about though is about what Archer will expect now, and how he – Brooks – doesn’t do relationships and doesn’t want anyone to know he’s hooking up with a man (which… he’s not freaked that it’s a man, but doesn’t want anyone to know… okay.) These comprise pretty much the entire conflict in the second half of the book – Brooks decides he needs to keep things professional; Archer is hurt by his coolness; Brooks can’t stay away so it’s shag-city again, then decides he needs to distance himself; Archer is hurt (again) and doesn’t know what’s going on etc. etc. Then there’s the silly plot-point I mentioned above, and I will put that as a spoiler.
The misunderstandings and miscommunications dominate the second half of the book, and it draaaaaags. And honestly, while I started out thinking Archer was a bit of a dickhead – he does some daft and immature things – I ended up liking him, disliking Brooks … and don’t get me started on Kit and Jules.
Oh – and here’s another spoiler.
Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton are excellent, as one would expect, and the English accent Jacob Morgan employs for Archer is exceptionally good, with only one or two teeny-tiny mispronunciations that give him away. He captures the character really well, skilfully revealing the vulnerability and insecurity that lies beneath the petulance and bravado, and although his delivery is a little bit low-key at times, it does fit the sense of jaded exhaustion Archer sometimes exudes. Teddy Hamilton is great as Brooks – all deep and gruff and sexy – but his English accent (for Archer) isn’t quite as good; it’s okay, but there’s an unmistakeable Dick van Dyke twang around certain vowel sounds! Still, he’s so good at everything else, I can forgive him (!). Both narrators really know how to hit the emotional beats of a story and they don’t disappoint, creating a believable connection between Archer and Brooks, and expertly communicating that connection and all the emotional highs and lows experienced by the characters to the listener. It’s a terrific performance of a lacklustre story (I settled on a C, mostly for the first half and the way the author builds the friendship between the leads), so unless you’re on a mission to listen to every book Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton have ever narrated together, I’d give it a miss.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals.
I really wish North American authors would learn that there is NO SUCH THING as a British accent, and would stop using it when they really mean an (RP) ENGLISH accent. Calling it a British accent is like me saying that someone from Brazil has an American accent - because they're from America!
Crossing Borders is the tenth and final (and only m/m) book in Marie James’ Blackbridge Security series; no prizes for guessing why I’d skip over the first nine to pick this one up. It’s perfectly possible to listen to it, as I did, as a complete newbie to the series because while characters from the other books make cameos and references are made to past/concurrent events, there’s only one event that has a real impact on this story (and is dealt with in this story), so provided you don’t mind hearing from characters you haven’t met before, it’s all fine. The other good news is that – of course – the narration is excellent – the bad is that these two fabulous performers have yet to find new material that is the best use of their considerable talent.
That said, Crossing Borders is at least a step up from the last book they narrated that I tried to listen to (I gave up at 25% because I was so BORED) and on the last book they narrated that I reviewed; in fact it started really well, so that for the first half I thought I’d be looking at a solid B grade for the story. But, alas, the second half rehashes the same misunderstandings over and over again, includes a totally ridiculous plot point, and generally loses its way, ignoring some of the interesting things I thought were being set up to show character insight and growth.
Okay, so… it seems that Blackbridge Security offers two types of personal protection detail. One is your common-or-garden bodyguard, who stands around looking intimidating, acts as driver and whatever else is required. The other is where the bodyguard acts as the protectee’s significant other to provide a less obvious presence – and it’s those jobs that are Brooks Morgan’s speciality. As per the book blurb, he gets paid to make it “look like I’m the newest love interest of insanely gorgeous women” – and all his clients so far have been women – and then often indulges in a little off-the-clock action when the contract ends (because of course, it would be unprofessional to sleep with a client.)
Archer Bremen is a bad-boy rock star whose public image imploded after photos were leaked of him in “intimate moments” (i.e, giving him a blow job)with his long-time best friend and band-mate, Fletcher Corbin. As if being outed in that way wasn’t bad enough though, he made things worse, going along with what he was told to say by his manager, which was that he was high on drugs and booze and all but accusing Fletcher of taking advantage of him. Archer has since sacked that manager, and the plan now is to rehabilitate his image by showing him in an actual relationship with a guy – which is where Brooks comes in. He can protect Archer from rabid fans and intrusive paparazzi while pretending to be his boyfriend, and being seen together will show that Archer is no longer denying that he’s gay.
Brooks doesn’t turn a hair when he agrees to the job – why should he? Being a fake-boyfriend is what he does, while Archer – as is standard for so many bodyguard/client romances – decides to make things as awkward as possible. On the very first day – their very first meeting – when Brooks has arrived to collect him, Archer swans downstairs in his birthday suit and gives Brooks a show, jerking off in front of him. Okay, so he’s hurt, he doesn’t know where to turn or where he goes from here and he’s acting out – but still.
The first part of the story (after the jerking off) is actually nicely done, showing a growing friendship between the pair, an understanding on Brooks’ part as to why Archer behaved that way and an acknowledgement that Archer wants and is trying to do better. The author refers several times to the realities of Archer’s life, that he learned early on that the way to stay safe was to be a people pleaser, that he never knows whether someone is genuinely into him or just after what he can do for them, about his being lonely while surrounded by people, and I was hopeful that we’d get a deeper exploration of this as the story went on. But that never happens.
I don’t think it’s too spoilery to say that by the mid-point, all the longing looks and glancing touches and near-but-not-quite kisses and sexual tension finally come to a head and Brooks and Archer fall into bed together – and a good time is had by all. I like that Brooks doesn’t freak out too much about being attracted to another man – he recalls fooling around with a guy in college; what he does freak about though is about what Archer will expect now, and how he – Brooks – doesn’t do relationships and doesn’t want anyone to know he’s hooking up with a man (which… he’s not freaked that it’s a man, but doesn’t want anyone to know… okay.) These comprise pretty much the entire conflict in the second half of the book – Brooks decides he needs to keep things professional; Archer is hurt by his coolness; Brooks can’t stay away so it’s shag-city again, then decides he needs to distance himself; Archer is hurt (again) and doesn’t know what’s going on etc. etc. Then there’s the silly plot-point I mentioned above, and I will put that as a spoiler.
The misunderstandings and miscommunications dominate the second half of the book, and it draaaaaags. And honestly, while I started out thinking Archer was a bit of a dickhead – he does some daft and immature things – I ended up liking him, disliking Brooks … and don’t get me started on Kit and Jules.
Oh – and here’s another spoiler.
Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton are excellent, as one would expect, and the English accent Jacob Morgan employs for Archer is exceptionally good, with only one or two teeny-tiny mispronunciations that give him away. He captures the character really well, skilfully revealing the vulnerability and insecurity that lies beneath the petulance and bravado, and although his delivery is a little bit low-key at times, it does fit the sense of jaded exhaustion Archer sometimes exudes. Teddy Hamilton is great as Brooks – all deep and gruff and sexy – but his English accent (for Archer) isn’t quite as good; it’s okay, but there’s an unmistakeable Dick van Dyke twang around certain vowel sounds! Still, he’s so good at everything else, I can forgive him (!). Both narrators really know how to hit the emotional beats of a story and they don’t disappoint, creating a believable connection between Archer and Brooks, and expertly communicating that connection and all the emotional highs and lows experienced by the characters to the listener. It’s a terrific performance of a lacklustre story (I settled on a C, mostly for the first half and the way the author builds the friendship between the leads), so unless you’re on a mission to listen to every book Jacob Morgan and Teddy Hamilton have ever narrated together, I’d give it a miss.
This review originally appeared at AudioGals.
June 9, 2022
I have to say that I can't decide if I'm super pissy or ready to cry (or both) about Crossing Borders being the last book in this fantastic series because I'm not ready to say goodbye. I've LOVED every book in this series, and frankly, I need Puff Daddy with all his new shenanigans in my life. Marie James is an author who is an automatic one click so I don't read the descriptions anymore as there's no doubt that I'll love whatever she releases, and this book is a prime example since I don't tend to read M/M. Finally Brooks gets his story, and it's quite the doozie to be honest. He's the bodyguard who plays the fake significant other while protecting and he's protected many beautiful women to this point. His latest assignment is rock star Archer, whose life has just blown up & needs help to get things settled. Archer wasn't my favorite at first since he was just mean to my Brooks, and no one is allowed to do that. Of course Brooks wants nothing to do with Archer until he does, and now he's facing an attraction that he's questioning but that's all I'm going to say about that. In order to see how it all plays out (and you want to see how it all plays out), you'll have to actually hit those one click buttons as I HIGHLY HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
June 11, 2022
Book ten in the BBS series of interconnected books can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. It is written in first person from an alternating dual POV.
I have been waiting for Brooks’ story. He has been the flirt, the player, the fake boyfriend to the stars, and the bodyguard everyone wants. I loved him in Kit’s book, and I was excited to finally get his story. This book begins with Brooks taking a new case to guard and assist British rock star Archer Bremen. What makes this fun, is that there are events in this book that are mentioned in other books of the series, and now the reader gets the full story. (For instance, how Brooks ended up with a dog bite on his behind.) Brooks is so much fun to read as he learns things about himself and falls madly in love with Archer over many months. I adore Brooks. He is one swoony hero.
Archer starts off the book in a bad place. His world has just imploded. He is self-centered and egotistical. I loved how his character grows and evolves over the course of the book. I really appreciated how much he enjoys just being with Brooks and absorbing his care and protection. I love how after much resistance; he looks inward and begins to become the self he has been afraid to embrace.
This is a steamy read with funny moments and lots of emotion. The attraction between Brooks and Archer leaps off the page. I adore the relationship they developed. This one was worth waiting for.
I have been waiting for Brooks’ story. He has been the flirt, the player, the fake boyfriend to the stars, and the bodyguard everyone wants. I loved him in Kit’s book, and I was excited to finally get his story. This book begins with Brooks taking a new case to guard and assist British rock star Archer Bremen. What makes this fun, is that there are events in this book that are mentioned in other books of the series, and now the reader gets the full story. (For instance, how Brooks ended up with a dog bite on his behind.) Brooks is so much fun to read as he learns things about himself and falls madly in love with Archer over many months. I adore Brooks. He is one swoony hero.
Archer starts off the book in a bad place. His world has just imploded. He is self-centered and egotistical. I loved how his character grows and evolves over the course of the book. I really appreciated how much he enjoys just being with Brooks and absorbing his care and protection. I love how after much resistance; he looks inward and begins to become the self he has been afraid to embrace.
This is a steamy read with funny moments and lots of emotion. The attraction between Brooks and Archer leaps off the page. I adore the relationship they developed. This one was worth waiting for.
June 3, 2022
Crossing Borders (Blackbridge Security #10) by Marie James
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
So, this is Brooks' book. He's the guy who has to protect while pretending to be a significant other. When Brooks gets the assignment for Archer, neither realizes that their lives are about to change.
Archer is floundering from a big blowup in his life. He wants to hide away, but with the damage control necessary, Archer hires Blackridge Security to help guide his image to a less dangerous ground.
As Brooks and Archer wind their way through the relentless paps, Archer's bandmates and Brooks' brothers at the security firm, they will either let their hearts guide them or their heads.
Unfortunately for me, this was one of the slower books. It took me until almost 70% of the book to truly become invested. It's slow moving and, while there is some overlap from the previous book, it isn't until over half way through. You do not need to read the previous books to understand this one, but I did enjoy the previous books a lot more than this one. I almost gave up on Brooks, but I'm glad I stuck it out.
3 stars
M/M Romance
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.
So, this is Brooks' book. He's the guy who has to protect while pretending to be a significant other. When Brooks gets the assignment for Archer, neither realizes that their lives are about to change.
Archer is floundering from a big blowup in his life. He wants to hide away, but with the damage control necessary, Archer hires Blackridge Security to help guide his image to a less dangerous ground.
As Brooks and Archer wind their way through the relentless paps, Archer's bandmates and Brooks' brothers at the security firm, they will either let their hearts guide them or their heads.
Unfortunately for me, this was one of the slower books. It took me until almost 70% of the book to truly become invested. It's slow moving and, while there is some overlap from the previous book, it isn't until over half way through. You do not need to read the previous books to understand this one, but I did enjoy the previous books a lot more than this one. I almost gave up on Brooks, but I'm glad I stuck it out.
June 8, 2022
"What a way to bid farewell to an incredible series, Brooks and Archer’s story was amazing.
Their story really took my by surprise in a fantastic way, I wasn’t sure how I would feel with these two, but their attraction and chemistry was off the charts.
After Archer’s life hits an unexpected curve, Blackbridge security is sent in to help, and Brooks becomes his bodyguard. The push and pull between them will have you on the edge of your seat. If you love M/M stories, Marie James has written one for the books.
I’m so sad to see this series end, I will for sure miss Puff Daddy!" ~Stephanie
Crossing Borders is the tenth book in Marie James Blackbridge Security series. I enjoyed reading Brooks and Archer's story. Feeling an attraction to each other from their first meeting, they soon realize how much they both mean to each other. I thought it is a great way to end the series, and look forward to read what this author comes up with next. ~Dawn
Their story really took my by surprise in a fantastic way, I wasn’t sure how I would feel with these two, but their attraction and chemistry was off the charts.
After Archer’s life hits an unexpected curve, Blackbridge security is sent in to help, and Brooks becomes his bodyguard. The push and pull between them will have you on the edge of your seat. If you love M/M stories, Marie James has written one for the books.
I’m so sad to see this series end, I will for sure miss Puff Daddy!" ~Stephanie
Crossing Borders is the tenth book in Marie James Blackbridge Security series. I enjoyed reading Brooks and Archer's story. Feeling an attraction to each other from their first meeting, they soon realize how much they both mean to each other. I thought it is a great way to end the series, and look forward to read what this author comes up with next. ~Dawn
June 9, 2022
Crossing Borders was sooo freakin good, I think it may have been my favorite in the whole series! Brooks is that guy whole gets to date all the ladies and protect them at the same time. Archer is his next assignment. Brooks is drawn to him. This story sucked me right from the first page. It is sooo well written and it flowed beautifully!.
June 10, 2022
Enjoyed the wrap up!
This was the last of the series and it felt like a nice wrap up with a beautiful bow!
I enjoyed the back and forth of these two and the growth between them and as an individuals in the story. I am so sad to see this series end but loved every happy ending!
I did miss some of the back and forth teasing between the team in this one as it's more prominent in the other books. Overall I really enjoyed it!
This was the last of the series and it felt like a nice wrap up with a beautiful bow!
I enjoyed the back and forth of these two and the growth between them and as an individuals in the story. I am so sad to see this series end but loved every happy ending!
I did miss some of the back and forth teasing between the team in this one as it's more prominent in the other books. Overall I really enjoyed it!
June 16, 2022
I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads, so here is my review.
I couldn't wait for Brooks' story and I think it might be my favorite out of this whole series and that is saying a lot because I love his series and hate to see it come to an end.
Brooks is the guy that has the hard assignments, he gets to date gorgeous women and has fun all while he is protecting them. But when Archer Breman is his next assignment, it might be Brooks' heart that needs protecting. Brooks is drawn to Archer from their first meeting and what a meeting it is. While Archer tries to get a rise out of Brooks, he doesn't let on that he is affected. Both men are attracted to each other, while Archer wants to explore more, Brooks isn't sure what to do.
I found that this story pulled me in from the very first page, I wanted to know what was happening and what was going to happen because these two men deserve it all. Although this story is filled with all the feels it takes to keep me invested in reading, I did miss one little character that always made me laugh.
So with that being said, you could read this one without reading the other but why would you miss all of the wonderful stories in the rest of this awesome series. I will miss this group of characters from Blackbridge Security and will read the again and again.
I couldn't wait for Brooks' story and I think it might be my favorite out of this whole series and that is saying a lot because I love his series and hate to see it come to an end.
Brooks is the guy that has the hard assignments, he gets to date gorgeous women and has fun all while he is protecting them. But when Archer Breman is his next assignment, it might be Brooks' heart that needs protecting. Brooks is drawn to Archer from their first meeting and what a meeting it is. While Archer tries to get a rise out of Brooks, he doesn't let on that he is affected. Both men are attracted to each other, while Archer wants to explore more, Brooks isn't sure what to do.
I found that this story pulled me in from the very first page, I wanted to know what was happening and what was going to happen because these two men deserve it all. Although this story is filled with all the feels it takes to keep me invested in reading, I did miss one little character that always made me laugh.
So with that being said, you could read this one without reading the other but why would you miss all of the wonderful stories in the rest of this awesome series. I will miss this group of characters from Blackbridge Security and will read the again and again.
March 18, 2024
Archer (Rockstar) and Brooks Morgan...the narration was 5+, but the storyline kinda lacked for me. So a 3.5 rating.
Brooks is a bodyguard/babysitter... and told to be the Rockstar's (Archer) boyfriend. And Archer is just immature. 🙄 This one seemed too whiny and unfortunately not as good.
**M/M romance
**Childish banter/angst
**Miscommunication
**Insecurities
Hoopla listen 🎶
Brooks is a bodyguard/babysitter... and told to be the Rockstar's (Archer) boyfriend. And Archer is just immature. 🙄 This one seemed too whiny and unfortunately not as good.
**M/M romance
**Childish banter/angst
**Miscommunication
**Insecurities
Hoopla listen 🎶
June 4, 2022
Archer Bremen is Brooks new assignment. When they meet, they are both drawn to each other. But Brooks has been straight his life. Soon, their feelings deepen as they become closer. Brooks discovers an awakening in him and needs Archer in his life. This was the last book in a great series.
October 11, 2022
I would definitely recommend this book, series, and exceptional author.
July 7, 2024
3.25
July 22, 2024
Audiobook Narration: 5 Stars
June 5, 2022
This was the story that I have been waiting for. Brooks and Archer’s story took me by surprise as I didn’t expect the emotions their story evoked. I will admit to being teary through some parts of their journey. Two men who are drawn to each other, one scared of being rejected and the other scared of feelings he didn’t expect. Brooks and Archer bring the heat, steam and passion that will light you on fire. They will also bring every emotion possible including frustration and love. Theirs was a true love story based on nothing more than hearts and souls finding their perfect match. I laughed, cried and fell in love with these two. These two will ultimately leave you breathless as the deep feelings they have for each other wrap themselves tight around you with every page.
June 9, 2022
I really, really enjoyed this series and hate to see it come to an end, but alas all things have to come to an end. All of the teasers of Brooks didn’t do his book justice. Archer is Brooks new assignment. They have this chemistry from the jump but Brooks has been straight all of his life. Will they cross the line between business and pleasure?
February 18, 2023
3⭐️ 2.75🌶️
It was okay. Didn’t love it but didn’t hate it. I liked them and I liked the plot but felt like there was so much missing for me on Brooks side. I needed more of him coming to terms that he was into Archer since he was a straight man. I think if this had more angst it would have been great.
The audio was so good though. Teddy and Jacob are just perfect together. Also, Jacob with a British accent…yes please. 🫠
It was okay. Didn’t love it but didn’t hate it. I liked them and I liked the plot but felt like there was so much missing for me on Brooks side. I needed more of him coming to terms that he was into Archer since he was a straight man. I think if this had more angst it would have been great.
The audio was so good though. Teddy and Jacob are just perfect together. Also, Jacob with a British accent…yes please. 🫠
June 7, 2022
LOVED THIS BOOK!! This one would have to be my favourite book from this series. It runs alongside a couple of the other books and is quite an addictive read. The flow of the book has you never wanting to put it down for anything at all. The words are captivating.
Brooks and Archer are everything! I just love these two so much. Highly recommend this book and series to everyone.
Arc Review.
Brooks and Archer are everything! I just love these two so much. Highly recommend this book and series to everyone.
Arc Review.
June 8, 2022
We finally get the whole story and the answers to so many questions. Why must such good things come up an end? Fantastic series, will be reading over and over.
June 4, 2022
4.25 stars—CROSSING BORDERS is the tenth instalment in Marie James’ contemporary, adult BLACKBRIDGE SECURITY erotic, romantic suspense series focusing on the members of Blackbridge Security. This is security specialist Brooks Morgan, and embattled rock star Archer Bremen. CROSSING BORDERS can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines is revealed where necessary. Some of the events of CROSSING BORDERS cross over with, and run parallel to the events of book nine CEASE FIRE.
NOTE: CROSSING BORDERS is an LGBTQ story line focusing on a same $ex relationship between our leading couple.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Brooks and Archer) CROSSING BORDERS follows the building romance and relationship between security specialist Brooks Morgan, and embattled rock star Archer Bremen. Archer Bremen has been outed by the drummer for his band Lucid Unrest but Archer, fearing professional repercussions denies their relationship, destroying a friendship, and the band in the process.In an effort to clean up his image, Archer approaches Blackbridge Security, hiring one of their agents to act as his ‘pretend boyfriend’. Enter Brooks Morgan, and the man with whom Archer will fall in love. What ensues is the building but struggling relationship between Brooks and Archer, and the potential fall-out as Brooks struggles with coming out to his friends, and Archer battles between head and heart in the face of losing his band and the paparazzi hounding their every move.
Brooks Morgan never considered a same-$ex relationship, in fact, Brooks Morgan had never dated or thought about men but pretending to be in a same-$ex relationship with rock star Archer Bremen stirred something deep within our story line hero, something Brooks never knew was hiding just below the surface. Archer Bremen struggled with the world discovering he had an affair with his band mate and friend but Archer’s need to protect his career destroyed his friendship with the members of the band. Meeting Brooks Morgan gave Archer hopes for the future but Archer continues to struggle with his place in Brooks life, as Brooks life spirals out of control at work.The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
Most of the Blackbridge Security team returns as secondary and supporting characters including Kit and Jules, Wren, Deacon Black, Quinten, Ignacio, Flynn, Jude, Gaige and Finn. We are introduced to Archer’s bandmates Fletcher and Grady.
CROSSING BORDERS is a story of secrets and lies, denial and acceptance, friendships, understanding and love. The premise is captivating and engaging-we spend most of the time with our story line couple ; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are charismatic and dynamic.
Www.thereadingcafe.com
NOTE: CROSSING BORDERS is an LGBTQ story line focusing on a same $ex relationship between our leading couple.
Told from dual first person perspectives (Brooks and Archer) CROSSING BORDERS follows the building romance and relationship between security specialist Brooks Morgan, and embattled rock star Archer Bremen. Archer Bremen has been outed by the drummer for his band Lucid Unrest but Archer, fearing professional repercussions denies their relationship, destroying a friendship, and the band in the process.In an effort to clean up his image, Archer approaches Blackbridge Security, hiring one of their agents to act as his ‘pretend boyfriend’. Enter Brooks Morgan, and the man with whom Archer will fall in love. What ensues is the building but struggling relationship between Brooks and Archer, and the potential fall-out as Brooks struggles with coming out to his friends, and Archer battles between head and heart in the face of losing his band and the paparazzi hounding their every move.
Brooks Morgan never considered a same-$ex relationship, in fact, Brooks Morgan had never dated or thought about men but pretending to be in a same-$ex relationship with rock star Archer Bremen stirred something deep within our story line hero, something Brooks never knew was hiding just below the surface. Archer Bremen struggled with the world discovering he had an affair with his band mate and friend but Archer’s need to protect his career destroyed his friendship with the members of the band. Meeting Brooks Morgan gave Archer hopes for the future but Archer continues to struggle with his place in Brooks life, as Brooks life spirals out of control at work.The $ex scenes are intimate, erotic and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.
Most of the Blackbridge Security team returns as secondary and supporting characters including Kit and Jules, Wren, Deacon Black, Quinten, Ignacio, Flynn, Jude, Gaige and Finn. We are introduced to Archer’s bandmates Fletcher and Grady.
CROSSING BORDERS is a story of secrets and lies, denial and acceptance, friendships, understanding and love. The premise is captivating and engaging-we spend most of the time with our story line couple ; the romance is seductive and intense; the characters are charismatic and dynamic.
Www.thereadingcafe.com
November 15, 2022
Archer, a spoiled rockstar, had gotten himself into a world of trouble. When photos were released of him and the drummer of his band in a compromising position, he spun a false, and even worse, story just to avoid being outed as gay. After coming clean to the press, Archer wanted to repair his reputation, and decided to hire a security firm to help him.
Brooks was used to being the security guard to A-List celebrities and even would pose as a boyfriend to a few. When the job was over, his female clientele were willing to thank him in other ways for a job well done. But he’s never had to pretend to be dating a male rockstar. When Brooks starts to get to know the real Archer, he’s not so sure he’s pretending anymore.
While this book was overall enjoyable, which had a lot to do with the narrators, this story felt rushed in some parts and incomplete in others. The conflict was a bit contrived and made to seem like it was a huge deal, but suddenly felt too conveniently tied up at the end. It almost ruined what Brooks and Archer had for no reason whatsoever and that irritated us. If we’re being honest, Archer deserved a lot better than what Brooks put him through the last half of the book.
Brooks was used to being the security guard to A-List celebrities and even would pose as a boyfriend to a few. When the job was over, his female clientele were willing to thank him in other ways for a job well done. But he’s never had to pretend to be dating a male rockstar. When Brooks starts to get to know the real Archer, he’s not so sure he’s pretending anymore.
While this book was overall enjoyable, which had a lot to do with the narrators, this story felt rushed in some parts and incomplete in others. The conflict was a bit contrived and made to seem like it was a huge deal, but suddenly felt too conveniently tied up at the end. It almost ruined what Brooks and Archer had for no reason whatsoever and that irritated us. If we’re being honest, Archer deserved a lot better than what Brooks put him through the last half of the book.
June 9, 2022
Amazon / Audio
Brooks' next assignment just may be the end of him. Babysitting a spoiled, messed up rockstar isn't necessarily a first for the guy who pretends to date gorgeous women all over the world when he's actually protecting them. Sure, he beds them after a lot of the time, but in no way does he do relationships. But his latest gig has put him front and center in Archer's screwed up life. Archer, the rockstar who was outed but denied it by saying he was drunk and high when caught with his friend and bandmate, a GUY. Yes, a guy. But no big deal, Brooks will do what he always does - his job. Right?
Archer's not used to anyone, male or female, not falling all over themselves to be near him. So when his new bodyguard doesn't seem to care for him, even while naked and ahem, holding himself, he instantly wants him. But Brooks is straight as an arrow. Or is he? Can Brooks come to terms with his newly discovered desires? Will Archer figure out his own life and where he is in Brooks' life?
I knew Brooks would have a good story and damn did he. Pairing him with a guy was unexpected for me, but I loved it. His coming to terms with his identity was so good - some back and forth, some hurt feelings, some uncertainty, a lot of passion, and so much heart. I loved Archer and Brooks together, and I'm going to miss this crew.
ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
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June 9, 2022
Check out our full post for CROSSING BORDERS on Wicked Reads.
Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team
Mary – ☆☆☆☆☆
I couldn't wait for Brooks' story and I think it might be my favorite out of this whole series, and that is saying a lot because I love this series and hate to see it come to an end.
Brooks is the guy who has the hard assignments, he gets to date gorgeous women and has fun all while he is protecting them. But when Archer Bremen is his next assignment, it might be Brooks' heart that needs protecting. Brooks is drawn to Archer from their first meeting – and what a meeting it is. While Archer tries to get a rise out of Brooks, he doesn't let on that he is affected. Both men are attracted to each other, while Archer wants to explore more, Brooks isn't sure what to do.
I found that this story pulled me in from the very first page, I wanted to know what was happening and what was going to happen because these two men deserve it all. Although this story is filled with all the feels it takes to keep me invested in reading, I did miss one little character that always made me laugh.
So with that being said, you could read this one without reading the others, but why would you miss all of the wonderful stories in the rest of this awesome series? I will miss this group of characters from Blackbridge Security and will read them again and again.
Avid Reader – ☆☆☆
M/M Romance
So, this is Brooks' book. He's the guy who has to protect while pretending to be a significant other. When Brooks gets the assignment for Archer, neither realizes that their lives are about to change.
Archer is floundering from a big blow-up in his life. He wants to hide away, but with the damage control necessary, Archer hires Blackbridge Security to help guide his image to a less dangerous ground.
As Brooks and Archer wind their way through the relentless paps, Archer's bandmates, and Brooks' brothers at the security firm, they will either let their hearts guide them or their heads.
Unfortunately for me, this was one of the slower books. It took me until almost 70% of the book to truly become invested. It's slow moving and while there is some overlap from the previous book, it isn't until over half way through. You do not need to read the previous books to understand this one, but I did enjoy the previous books a lot more than this one. I almost gave up on Brooks, but I'm glad I stuck it out.
Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.
June 2, 2022
I can hardly wait for everyone else to discover how fantastic Brooks and Archer are together!! I loved their story and this book was the perfect culmination to the end of the Blackbridge series.
There have been hints, easter eggs, and small teasers for multiple books now on what could be happening in Brooks' professional and personal life, but nothing like the bombs dropped in the last book that actually confirmed what was coming down the pipeline. I don't know about anyone else, but I was ecstatic to have it all actually confirmed and even more so that their story was absolutely delicious and totally delightful!!
Brooks' job within the security company would appear to be one of the easier ones, but could also be one of the toughest depending on if you were a people person or not. He is assigned to high profile cases as, the best word I can think of, as an escort, but he's also a bodyguard. His boyfriend type of services are in the public eye while he provides security. When he's assigned to Archer Bremen, a rockstar, he's never been the boyfriend to a man, but it doesn't deter him from doing his job, nor doing it professionally. What Brooks isn't prepared for is the feelings Archer stirs up in him considering Brooks has only ever been with women and considered himself straight, but perhaps his outlook on his personal life just shifted. Brooks' bi-wakening was written so well, I loved taking the journey with him.
Archer needs the help of Blackbridge Security when he blows up his life in a big way. He's a famous rockstar that not only came out of the closet in a very public way, but blowing up his life has a lot more to do with the way he tried to shove himself back into it. Archer is a storm of a mess, but being around Brooks is when you see him calm and actually trying to be a better man. While he does push Brooks, a lot, he also is a sensitive soul, with a big heart and his vulnerability will break down just about anyone's walls. He's a bit manic, he is a soulful rockstar afterall, but his sweet soul really won me over and at the end of the day, these two together are just perfect.
This book travels down the timeline of multiple Blackbridge stories, while the tension and chemistry builds to a delicious level between Brooks and Archer. Dropping all of those teasers back into their appropriate spots made all the anticipation well worth the wait. I adored revisiting some of my favorite moments throughout the series while digging deeper into what all of those hints really were. This book is best enjoyed if the series has been read in order, but if you've missed a book or two, you could still jump into their love story and follow along with no problem.
There have been hints, easter eggs, and small teasers for multiple books now on what could be happening in Brooks' professional and personal life, but nothing like the bombs dropped in the last book that actually confirmed what was coming down the pipeline. I don't know about anyone else, but I was ecstatic to have it all actually confirmed and even more so that their story was absolutely delicious and totally delightful!!
Brooks' job within the security company would appear to be one of the easier ones, but could also be one of the toughest depending on if you were a people person or not. He is assigned to high profile cases as, the best word I can think of, as an escort, but he's also a bodyguard. His boyfriend type of services are in the public eye while he provides security. When he's assigned to Archer Bremen, a rockstar, he's never been the boyfriend to a man, but it doesn't deter him from doing his job, nor doing it professionally. What Brooks isn't prepared for is the feelings Archer stirs up in him considering Brooks has only ever been with women and considered himself straight, but perhaps his outlook on his personal life just shifted. Brooks' bi-wakening was written so well, I loved taking the journey with him.
Archer needs the help of Blackbridge Security when he blows up his life in a big way. He's a famous rockstar that not only came out of the closet in a very public way, but blowing up his life has a lot more to do with the way he tried to shove himself back into it. Archer is a storm of a mess, but being around Brooks is when you see him calm and actually trying to be a better man. While he does push Brooks, a lot, he also is a sensitive soul, with a big heart and his vulnerability will break down just about anyone's walls. He's a bit manic, he is a soulful rockstar afterall, but his sweet soul really won me over and at the end of the day, these two together are just perfect.
This book travels down the timeline of multiple Blackbridge stories, while the tension and chemistry builds to a delicious level between Brooks and Archer. Dropping all of those teasers back into their appropriate spots made all the anticipation well worth the wait. I adored revisiting some of my favorite moments throughout the series while digging deeper into what all of those hints really were. This book is best enjoyed if the series has been read in order, but if you've missed a book or two, you could still jump into their love story and follow along with no problem.
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