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Out in Austin #2
Shiloh's Secret
FROM EXCITING AUTHOR OF LGBTQIA ROMANCE KD ELLIS
Book two in the Out in Austin series
Shiloh Beckett has a trust fund, a stalker and a secret. He doesn't trust easily, but his new bodyguard might just break the cycle.
Shiloh Beckett might be the sole heir to Beckett Industries, one of the leading tech companies in the world, but the last thing he wants is to become another suit-and-tie. He's learned the hard way that money can't buy happiness, just a better brand of misery.
Gage Tucker lives by the motto Protect and Serve. Raised by a cop who failed his family, Gage chose to serve his country the only way he knew how—with boots on the ground and a gun in his hand. After a mission gone wrong, Gage came home with a broken body but the same drive to protect. Months of rehab later, he joined Eagle Security as a Personal Protection Officer and he's been a bodyguard ever since. Protecting a trust-fund brat from the paparazzi isn't what he signed up for.
Soon he learns that there's more than just the media after Shiloh, and the secrets the boy is hiding will change everything. If he can't convince Shiloh to trust him, how can he keep him safe?
Book two in the Out in Austin series
Shiloh Beckett has a trust fund, a stalker and a secret. He doesn't trust easily, but his new bodyguard might just break the cycle.
Shiloh Beckett might be the sole heir to Beckett Industries, one of the leading tech companies in the world, but the last thing he wants is to become another suit-and-tie. He's learned the hard way that money can't buy happiness, just a better brand of misery.
Gage Tucker lives by the motto Protect and Serve. Raised by a cop who failed his family, Gage chose to serve his country the only way he knew how—with boots on the ground and a gun in his hand. After a mission gone wrong, Gage came home with a broken body but the same drive to protect. Months of rehab later, he joined Eagle Security as a Personal Protection Officer and he's been a bodyguard ever since. Protecting a trust-fund brat from the paparazzi isn't what he signed up for.
Soon he learns that there's more than just the media after Shiloh, and the secrets the boy is hiding will change everything. If he can't convince Shiloh to trust him, how can he keep him safe?
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 16, 2021
5 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 75 reviews
October 5, 2021
My goodness. This book about did me in. I’m so glad there are trigger warnings with this one and you should definitely heed them.
Shiloh will gut you. His story is gut-wrenching and visceral. He just grabs your heart from the start and never lets go. The things he has been though are awful. Gage is this stalwart man who initially judges Shiloh by what he has seen in the tabloids. But as he peels back the layers that are like armor to Shiloh, he gets a whole new view.
I genuinely enjoyed Gage and Shiloh together. Once we got past Shiloh being an absolute BRAT and Gage being a little stuck-up, they melded together beautifully. I would definitely call this a slow-burn. No real romantic interaction until nearly 70% , but the story was so engaging that you didn’t really notice how slow the burn was. I will say this though, so much of the conflict between Gage and Shiloh could have been eradicated with a conversation or two. That was slightly frustrating.
Ellis addresses such sensitive topics here, and they are handled beautifully. Seeing all the ups and downs and outbursts that Shiloh had, made his trauma jump off the page. You couldn’t help feeling a reaction to hearing Shiloh’s story. This was a beautifully written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shiloh will gut you. His story is gut-wrenching and visceral. He just grabs your heart from the start and never lets go. The things he has been though are awful. Gage is this stalwart man who initially judges Shiloh by what he has seen in the tabloids. But as he peels back the layers that are like armor to Shiloh, he gets a whole new view.
I genuinely enjoyed Gage and Shiloh together. Once we got past Shiloh being an absolute BRAT and Gage being a little stuck-up, they melded together beautifully. I would definitely call this a slow-burn. No real romantic interaction until nearly 70% , but the story was so engaging that you didn’t really notice how slow the burn was. I will say this though, so much of the conflict between Gage and Shiloh could have been eradicated with a conversation or two. That was slightly frustrating.
Ellis addresses such sensitive topics here, and they are handled beautifully. Seeing all the ups and downs and outbursts that Shiloh had, made his trauma jump off the page. You couldn’t help feeling a reaction to hearing Shiloh’s story. This was a beautifully written book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 5, 2022
Thank you to GRR for a review copy of Shiloh's Secret in exchange for an honest review.
This was a really good story, and a first for me by this author. I love a good bodyguard/protectee romance and this was no exception. However, check your TWs here. There's a lot of hard hitting triggers such as rape, sexual assault, parental neglect, drug use, self-harm, kidnapping etc.
Beyond that, I found Shiloh and Gage balanced each other out so well. Shiloh needed someone who could keep up with him and take care of him without changing who he was. And Gage didn't want a passive doe; he liked who Shiloh was and he liked that Shiloh didn't look at him with pity, or that he couldn't do something just because he lost his leg. While Shiloh was a huge brat for the first half of this book, it makes sense based on what happened to him and what he's going through. But it was also so good to see the relationship grow organically between Gage and Shiloh.
I'm eager to read my ARC of the third book in this series. I didn't read the first book in the Out In Austin series, but each of them seems to standalone very well!
This was a really good story, and a first for me by this author. I love a good bodyguard/protectee romance and this was no exception. However, check your TWs here. There's a lot of hard hitting triggers such as rape, sexual assault, parental neglect, drug use, self-harm, kidnapping etc.
Beyond that, I found Shiloh and Gage balanced each other out so well. Shiloh needed someone who could keep up with him and take care of him without changing who he was. And Gage didn't want a passive doe; he liked who Shiloh was and he liked that Shiloh didn't look at him with pity, or that he couldn't do something just because he lost his leg. While Shiloh was a huge brat for the first half of this book, it makes sense based on what happened to him and what he's going through. But it was also so good to see the relationship grow organically between Gage and Shiloh.
I'm eager to read my ARC of the third book in this series. I didn't read the first book in the Out In Austin series, but each of them seems to standalone very well!
November 16, 2021
Shiloh is twenty-one, a party animal, and doesn’t want security. He succeeds to get rid of them every time, and succeeds to irritate his father.
Shiloh’s father is the CEO of Beckett Industries, a leading tech firm. His father wants Shiloh to have a bodyguard, he got a stalker who gets more and more aggressive.
Gage is the one who will protect him from now on. Easier said than done. The brat is inventive with escaping.
We can follow Gage and Shiloh getting closer, we get to know both their lives, there’s a lot to know and all interesting.
Shiloh has a secret, a painful, damaging secret. Yes, bit by bit we get to know what happened to Shiloh.
The story was hugely entertaining. The client slash bodyguard content was well done.
For me, there are a few points for improvement. I had a bit of trouble with the timeline.
The first 70 percent was quite easy-going with a slow pace, a lot of things happened, entertaining and enjoyable, but not with a lot of progress, more widely developed, not into depth. We can understand something going on or going to happen soon. In the last thirty percent, there are a lot of revelations and turns, for me, it was a bit too much and in a too-short time in comparison to the previous pace.
The relationship development was convincing, ditto with the security part and the parts where friends were involved. There was quite some drama, I would already be satisfied with less. Some important parts went way too fast or were left undeveloped.
By all means, it was quite an entertaining, mostly convincing, emotional story, full of excitement, action, and with a good plot. For me, not always balanced, but certainly worth reading.
Looking back at the whole picture, I found it entertaining and enjoyable.
There are some triggers to find, keep these in mind.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
Shiloh’s father is the CEO of Beckett Industries, a leading tech firm. His father wants Shiloh to have a bodyguard, he got a stalker who gets more and more aggressive.
Gage is the one who will protect him from now on. Easier said than done. The brat is inventive with escaping.
We can follow Gage and Shiloh getting closer, we get to know both their lives, there’s a lot to know and all interesting.
Shiloh has a secret, a painful, damaging secret. Yes, bit by bit we get to know what happened to Shiloh.
The story was hugely entertaining. The client slash bodyguard content was well done.
For me, there are a few points for improvement. I had a bit of trouble with the timeline.
The first 70 percent was quite easy-going with a slow pace, a lot of things happened, entertaining and enjoyable, but not with a lot of progress, more widely developed, not into depth. We can understand something going on or going to happen soon. In the last thirty percent, there are a lot of revelations and turns, for me, it was a bit too much and in a too-short time in comparison to the previous pace.
The relationship development was convincing, ditto with the security part and the parts where friends were involved. There was quite some drama, I would already be satisfied with less. Some important parts went way too fast or were left undeveloped.
By all means, it was quite an entertaining, mostly convincing, emotional story, full of excitement, action, and with a good plot. For me, not always balanced, but certainly worth reading.
Looking back at the whole picture, I found it entertaining and enjoyable.
There are some triggers to find, keep these in mind.
Read and reviewed for LoveBytes - LGBTQ bookreviews
November 22, 2021
Shiloh and Gage ❤️
This book was just ok for me... although I enjoyed Shiloh and Gage's relationship, this book was dark and it's not what I expected... Shilohs story gutted me and left me disturbed, I think that where the disconnect came from 😕 this was a tough one to read, it was so heavy. Ugh I wanted to love it but I just couldn't, this one made me sad.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
This book was just ok for me... although I enjoyed Shiloh and Gage's relationship, this book was dark and it's not what I expected... Shilohs story gutted me and left me disturbed, I think that where the disconnect came from 😕 this was a tough one to read, it was so heavy. Ugh I wanted to love it but I just couldn't, this one made me sad.
* I received an ARC from GRR, this is my open and honest review *
January 29, 2023
Tropes and Elements:
- Daddy/boy
- Hurt/comfort
- Hero MC
- Disability representation
2.5/5.
The book promises a high angst, powerful story between a bodyguard and his charge. Shiloh, the semi-famous child of a tech giant that everyone assumes is a spoiled party boy, and Gage, the Army Ranger veteran who likes bratty twinks but is also just regaining his footing being a retired veteran and civilian working in personal, private security. This book starts with learning a bit about Shiloh's background and clueing into the hurts he has experienced, and how Gage is not looking forward to having to deal with such a client.
Writing wise, I found that it was well edited. There was no issues with typos I saw, however I did struggle sometimes feeling really connected to the characters. There was a sense of internal dialogue, but the POVs seemed to switch without any markers to indicate it and a bit 'at random'. I feel I didn't get enough internally to be really connected, or maybe there was something else just not quite doing it for me. I liked Gage's 'POV' more than I did Shiloh's, honestly, which is a bit of a shame because in theory I would really like Shiloh's character.
Shiloh is the hurt one in his book that is hurt/comfort. Personality wise, we see the mask of the slightly-sassy, spoiled brat, but beneath that someone very vulnerable. Considering what he has gone through, it makes sense. Everyone seems to want to fuck him in this book, and I personally am not a fan of pointing out how attractive your character is multiple times. Gage is the calm one, a steady rock for Shiloh, but he also has a sense of humor and doesn't look down on Shiloh once he realizes there is more about him beyond the typical tabloid hugger. Funnily enough, I can't tell you much about what he looks like, I just remember it mentioned that he was Cuban. Yet the cover models, they both are white. Can I say this is an interracial romance? Hard to say.
However, the pacing of this book and the events within it were... wild. I'm not wanting to go into spoilers but seriously, when at 90% of the book there is still something dramatic happening, I feel like we never got tension breaks. There are three sex scenes in this book, one in the epilogue. This was a slow burn for the romance, not coming around until 65%, yet at 44% I was wondering how much more could even happen. The different plot twists and events didn't feel clever or surprising to me, it felt exhausting. That is why the rating is low for me. I felt there was too much angsty and dramatic events shafted into three, four weeks to the characters and it felt ridiculous when you put it all together. Not to mention, it wasn't until they had sex (70% in), that I even felt they had any chemistry. There was attempt at writing UST but I didn't feel it come through the pages. I felt like it was sudden when they admitted liking each other to friends, honestly. They barely had any real conversations on page in this book until after they get together. Sure, Gage saves Shiloh more than once, but this feels a case of transference more than it does genuine love. I enjoy insta-love, but the awkward middle area where it isn't instant but sudden with no chemistry, it definitely feels awkward to me.
Of all the bad things happening to Shiloh, I never felt a bit of release. The sweet moments were so few and far, and I did not feel heart-warmed by the ones at the very end before the epilogue. I just felt so sad. This is technically a romance but... I don't know. I didn't feel the romance. The epilogue was fine, though it has a sex scene, and while usually that doesn't bother me, it was sad because I just wanted to see something more soft and domestic between them.
As far as some other notes - the Daddy kink kicks in much later, the sex scenes themselves were very hot though! I did enjoy them. I would call this slow burn and medium-steam, despite how much sex is talked about in this book. I struggle with some scenes that, even it being Austin, TX, to be realistic. Such as the one at the shooting range. I did like the effort of showing how diverse an area it was, and highlights at the place Shiloh volunteers at. I enjoyed the side characters and want to read the story of some of them, for sure! If it isn't so 'all hurt, no comfort' as this one was, anyway.
It just didn't work for me. It's not that I don't like high angst - I enjoy quite a bit of it, the drama can be quite fun too, but I do really need more release from that tension and on-page couple time.
**I voluntarily received an ARC in return for my honest review!**
- Daddy/boy
- Hurt/comfort
- Hero MC
- Disability representation
2.5/5.
The book promises a high angst, powerful story between a bodyguard and his charge. Shiloh, the semi-famous child of a tech giant that everyone assumes is a spoiled party boy, and Gage, the Army Ranger veteran who likes bratty twinks but is also just regaining his footing being a retired veteran and civilian working in personal, private security. This book starts with learning a bit about Shiloh's background and clueing into the hurts he has experienced, and how Gage is not looking forward to having to deal with such a client.
Writing wise, I found that it was well edited. There was no issues with typos I saw, however I did struggle sometimes feeling really connected to the characters. There was a sense of internal dialogue, but the POVs seemed to switch without any markers to indicate it and a bit 'at random'. I feel I didn't get enough internally to be really connected, or maybe there was something else just not quite doing it for me. I liked Gage's 'POV' more than I did Shiloh's, honestly, which is a bit of a shame because in theory I would really like Shiloh's character.
Shiloh is the hurt one in his book that is hurt/comfort. Personality wise, we see the mask of the slightly-sassy, spoiled brat, but beneath that someone very vulnerable. Considering what he has gone through, it makes sense. Everyone seems to want to fuck him in this book, and I personally am not a fan of pointing out how attractive your character is multiple times. Gage is the calm one, a steady rock for Shiloh, but he also has a sense of humor and doesn't look down on Shiloh once he realizes there is more about him beyond the typical tabloid hugger. Funnily enough, I can't tell you much about what he looks like, I just remember it mentioned that he was Cuban. Yet the cover models, they both are white. Can I say this is an interracial romance? Hard to say.
However, the pacing of this book and the events within it were... wild. I'm not wanting to go into spoilers but seriously, when at 90% of the book there is still something dramatic happening, I feel like we never got tension breaks. There are three sex scenes in this book, one in the epilogue. This was a slow burn for the romance, not coming around until 65%, yet at 44% I was wondering how much more could even happen. The different plot twists and events didn't feel clever or surprising to me, it felt exhausting. That is why the rating is low for me. I felt there was too much angsty and dramatic events shafted into three, four weeks to the characters and it felt ridiculous when you put it all together. Not to mention, it wasn't until they had sex (70% in), that I even felt they had any chemistry. There was attempt at writing UST but I didn't feel it come through the pages. I felt like it was sudden when they admitted liking each other to friends, honestly. They barely had any real conversations on page in this book until after they get together. Sure, Gage saves Shiloh more than once, but this feels a case of transference more than it does genuine love. I enjoy insta-love, but the awkward middle area where it isn't instant but sudden with no chemistry, it definitely feels awkward to me.
Of all the bad things happening to Shiloh, I never felt a bit of release. The sweet moments were so few and far, and I did not feel heart-warmed by the ones at the very end before the epilogue. I just felt so sad. This is technically a romance but... I don't know. I didn't feel the romance. The epilogue was fine, though it has a sex scene, and while usually that doesn't bother me, it was sad because I just wanted to see something more soft and domestic between them.
As far as some other notes - the Daddy kink kicks in much later, the sex scenes themselves were very hot though! I did enjoy them. I would call this slow burn and medium-steam, despite how much sex is talked about in this book. I struggle with some scenes that, even it being Austin, TX, to be realistic. Such as the one at the shooting range. I did like the effort of showing how diverse an area it was, and highlights at the place Shiloh volunteers at. I enjoyed the side characters and want to read the story of some of them, for sure! If it isn't so 'all hurt, no comfort' as this one was, anyway.
It just didn't work for me. It's not that I don't like high angst - I enjoy quite a bit of it, the drama can be quite fun too, but I do really need more release from that tension and on-page couple time.
**I voluntarily received an ARC in return for my honest review!**
November 20, 2021
The blurb spoke directly to me, but what came was completely unexpected. Unexpectedly good. OMG, I love this book.
KD Ellis' writing style is easy-going and I got into the story quickly. Shiloh comes across at first as a spoiled boy who likes to have his way and doesn't think much of what his father tells him. However, there is so much more behind Shiloh's facade that he keeps up all the time. Until Gage comes into his life. Gage has been hired by his father as a bodyguard because there is a stalker after Shiloh and his father wants to protect him.
Gage is just sugar. I liked him immensely from the beginning. He's ex-military and because of his backstory, he's a very strong man with principles who has a soft heart and knows how to deal with Shiloh. Gage managed to get through to Shiloh and with each layer Shiloh drops, my heart bled more. His story is heartbreaking and I can well understand why he acts the way he does.
The story captivated me from the beginning and twists kept coming that I wasn't expecting at all. The author did a really good job with that. I was fascinated by the development of Shiloh and Gage's relationship. I felt for them as I read.
Shiloh's Secret is an entertaining, emotional, heartbreaking, but also exciting story that was incredibly fun to read. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
KD Ellis' writing style is easy-going and I got into the story quickly. Shiloh comes across at first as a spoiled boy who likes to have his way and doesn't think much of what his father tells him. However, there is so much more behind Shiloh's facade that he keeps up all the time. Until Gage comes into his life. Gage has been hired by his father as a bodyguard because there is a stalker after Shiloh and his father wants to protect him.
Gage is just sugar. I liked him immensely from the beginning. He's ex-military and because of his backstory, he's a very strong man with principles who has a soft heart and knows how to deal with Shiloh. Gage managed to get through to Shiloh and with each layer Shiloh drops, my heart bled more. His story is heartbreaking and I can well understand why he acts the way he does.
The story captivated me from the beginning and twists kept coming that I wasn't expecting at all. The author did a really good job with that. I was fascinated by the development of Shiloh and Gage's relationship. I felt for them as I read.
Shiloh's Secret is an entertaining, emotional, heartbreaking, but also exciting story that was incredibly fun to read. Highly recommended!
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2021
What an outstanding read
Shiloh Beckett is the son of a billionaire. He is also a kid out of control. He does everything opposite that his dad asked of him sneaking away from bodyguards is his favourite thing to do. He is a very unhappy man. He sleeps with men out of necessity rather than want. He comes across as a brat but he is so much more than that. Why does he act the way he does??
Gage Tucker had been a ranger but you due to his tank going over an IED he lost part of his leg and now has a prosthetic. But that doesn’t stop him from working for Eagle security. He’s not impressed when he gets the new file on Shiloh, could you really keep this kid safe. The other problem was he was just the kind of man that Gage goes for And this could be a major problem keeping him safe.
When Shiloh’s dad informs Gage That he doesn’t want his son to know about the threatening letters Gage is not impressed. How can I keep the kids safe when he doesn’t know he’s in danger?? But there’s something else going on here something that is driving Shiloh to play up what could it be??
Once I started this book I just could not put it down there was so much going on. from the beginning I knew something must’ve happened to Shiloh that made him act this way because he cared, he has a soft heart but he hides behind the wall so high that he build, that he finds it hard to let anybody in. Doesn’t know who we can trust. But when he met Gage something changed in Shiloh don’t get me wrong is still played up but there was a notable difference in him. I don’t wanna give anything away!!!!!
Right just read this book because You will not be disappointed. There’s so much drama. I went through every emotion reading this book it melted my heart in so many places that I wish I could re-read it right away. I cannot wait for another book by KDLS.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Shiloh Beckett is the son of a billionaire. He is also a kid out of control. He does everything opposite that his dad asked of him sneaking away from bodyguards is his favourite thing to do. He is a very unhappy man. He sleeps with men out of necessity rather than want. He comes across as a brat but he is so much more than that. Why does he act the way he does??
Gage Tucker had been a ranger but you due to his tank going over an IED he lost part of his leg and now has a prosthetic. But that doesn’t stop him from working for Eagle security. He’s not impressed when he gets the new file on Shiloh, could you really keep this kid safe. The other problem was he was just the kind of man that Gage goes for And this could be a major problem keeping him safe.
When Shiloh’s dad informs Gage That he doesn’t want his son to know about the threatening letters Gage is not impressed. How can I keep the kids safe when he doesn’t know he’s in danger?? But there’s something else going on here something that is driving Shiloh to play up what could it be??
Once I started this book I just could not put it down there was so much going on. from the beginning I knew something must’ve happened to Shiloh that made him act this way because he cared, he has a soft heart but he hides behind the wall so high that he build, that he finds it hard to let anybody in. Doesn’t know who we can trust. But when he met Gage something changed in Shiloh don’t get me wrong is still played up but there was a notable difference in him. I don’t wanna give anything away!!!!!
Right just read this book because You will not be disappointed. There’s so much drama. I went through every emotion reading this book it melted my heart in so many places that I wish I could re-read it right away. I cannot wait for another book by KDLS.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 18, 2021
I loved this book way more than I expected I would!
After being disappointed by the first book, I honestly had low expectations for this book, but I wanted to give it a try after a friend highly recommended it. Plus, the book covers some very, very heavy topics and it could have easily not been handled well. Thankfully, I ended up loving it.
My biggest problems with the first book were a) the first half of the book dragging on when it could have been more condensed and b) the relationship not feeling believable so it was hard to get into their connection and chemistry and understand why they would fight so hard to be together. I had zero of these issues with the second book.
Shiloh comes off as a carefree rich boy, but it's clearly all a facade and his life is spiraling out of control. Gage has had his fair share of trauma, and is still working through it, but he's in a much better place and is an absolute rock to Shiloh. While Gage is kind of a jerk at first, he quickly realizes that there's more than meets the eye when it comes to Shiloh. Gage is 100% a protector and is someone that Shiloh can both trust and depend on, something he's rarely had in his life. I just liked how the author took the time to have the guys get to know each other, form a kind of friendship, and then it developed into more. It's kind of a slow burn, and the journey of their relationship is super satisfying and helps build a deep bond between the two. I felt totally invested in them early on in the book. The overall story was also good and kept my attention the whole time. There are some really fun side characters introduced at one point and I'd love to get their stories.
I will say - there are a few miscommunications in this book that drove me crazy, but they were pretty short lived and the resolutions were satisfying. I almost gave this book 4.5 stars because of them, but I really did love the heck out of this book. I seriously couldn't put it down and almost read the entire thing in one night.
I highly recommend this one! If you didn't like the first book, do give this one a try because I thought it was way better. This book could be read as a standalone. There's one detail from the first book that's mentioned but not explained, but it's easy to fill in the blanks. (No spoilers, but basically there are two characters that had an argument in the first book, and that's all you really need to know; the details aren't important and you can guess at them anyway.)
After being disappointed by the first book, I honestly had low expectations for this book, but I wanted to give it a try after a friend highly recommended it. Plus, the book covers some very, very heavy topics and it could have easily not been handled well. Thankfully, I ended up loving it.
My biggest problems with the first book were a) the first half of the book dragging on when it could have been more condensed and b) the relationship not feeling believable so it was hard to get into their connection and chemistry and understand why they would fight so hard to be together. I had zero of these issues with the second book.
Shiloh comes off as a carefree rich boy, but it's clearly all a facade and his life is spiraling out of control. Gage has had his fair share of trauma, and is still working through it, but he's in a much better place and is an absolute rock to Shiloh. While Gage is kind of a jerk at first, he quickly realizes that there's more than meets the eye when it comes to Shiloh. Gage is 100% a protector and is someone that Shiloh can both trust and depend on, something he's rarely had in his life. I just liked how the author took the time to have the guys get to know each other, form a kind of friendship, and then it developed into more. It's kind of a slow burn, and the journey of their relationship is super satisfying and helps build a deep bond between the two. I felt totally invested in them early on in the book. The overall story was also good and kept my attention the whole time. There are some really fun side characters introduced at one point and I'd love to get their stories.
I will say - there are a few miscommunications in this book that drove me crazy, but they were pretty short lived and the resolutions were satisfying. I almost gave this book 4.5 stars because of them, but I really did love the heck out of this book. I seriously couldn't put it down and almost read the entire thing in one night.
I highly recommend this one! If you didn't like the first book, do give this one a try because I thought it was way better. This book could be read as a standalone. There's one detail from the first book that's mentioned but not explained, but it's easy to fill in the blanks. (No spoilers, but basically there are two characters that had an argument in the first book, and that's all you really need to know; the details aren't important and you can guess at them anyway.)
October 22, 2021
So I didn’t even bother reading the synopsis for this book, I just saw a free ARC and something about it caught my eye. I honestly didn’t have high hopes, I’ve had bad luck with ARC choices so far. I’m so glad I took a chance, as this is by far the best novel I’ve read this year.
It had literally everything: romance, mystery, intrigue, suspense, drama, dancing, emotions off the chart, hot sex, a sexy soldier… F’ing Pink Hair! I mean everything. I personally don’t like writing about the story in a review, if you’re here you obviously are interested in the general plot. And I’m honestly s**t at trying to convey story elements in a review. Do pay attention to the triggering content warning.
To me the only two things that matter on a review are whether or not the book kept me wanting to read to the end, and the way I feel when it’s over. I can tell you that this book was straight addicting, I finally had to force myself to sleep for a few hours because it was long(a good long) and my eyes were swimming, but I immediately picked it up and binge read the rest the next day. I got to the end and I was in shock it was over, the only thoughts I was capable of being “holy shit” and “I can’t believe it’s over”.
While I do always leave a review for ARC opportunities, I’m brutally honest in them. With other reading I only leave a review if it’s so bad I have to give it only 1 star, or so good it needed more than 5. It has to be worth my time. This was. Absolutely. 10/10.
It had literally everything: romance, mystery, intrigue, suspense, drama, dancing, emotions off the chart, hot sex, a sexy soldier… F’ing Pink Hair! I mean everything. I personally don’t like writing about the story in a review, if you’re here you obviously are interested in the general plot. And I’m honestly s**t at trying to convey story elements in a review. Do pay attention to the triggering content warning.
To me the only two things that matter on a review are whether or not the book kept me wanting to read to the end, and the way I feel when it’s over. I can tell you that this book was straight addicting, I finally had to force myself to sleep for a few hours because it was long(a good long) and my eyes were swimming, but I immediately picked it up and binge read the rest the next day. I got to the end and I was in shock it was over, the only thoughts I was capable of being “holy shit” and “I can’t believe it’s over”.
While I do always leave a review for ARC opportunities, I’m brutally honest in them. With other reading I only leave a review if it’s so bad I have to give it only 1 star, or so good it needed more than 5. It has to be worth my time. This was. Absolutely. 10/10.
June 14, 2022
4.5/5
This was such a beautiful and hard hitting read. The trauma Shiloh experiences is gut wrenching, but his strength is powerful and his relationship with Gage is so healing. Seeing the moment Shiloh finally lets himself be vulnerable and trust Gage brought tears to my eyes. I love their HEA but wish so badly that the author had given more pages to it. The story ended a little abruptly, and while it was a joyous ending, I still needed a little more. Nevertheless, this was wonderful. However, it was quite a heavy read, and I think I need something much lighter for my next one. I'm looking forward to more from this author though.
This was such a beautiful and hard hitting read. The trauma Shiloh experiences is gut wrenching, but his strength is powerful and his relationship with Gage is so healing. Seeing the moment Shiloh finally lets himself be vulnerable and trust Gage brought tears to my eyes. I love their HEA but wish so badly that the author had given more pages to it. The story ended a little abruptly, and while it was a joyous ending, I still needed a little more. Nevertheless, this was wonderful. However, it was quite a heavy read, and I think I need something much lighter for my next one. I'm looking forward to more from this author though.
November 16, 2021
Another angsty winner
This is the second book in the Out in Austin series. You don't have to have read the first one to know what is going on in this book but it is still an amazing read. Shiloh is self destructing and he knows it. He is being abused by a close friend and his father us oblivious. Shiloh's only way to manage it is by finding some way to control his life, while acting out against his father Gage is hired to protect him when threats are made, but are they even real? Can Gage get Shiloh to obey him? It turns out that Shiloh just wants someone to care about him, pay attention to him in the right way.
TW: on page assault and drug use
This is the second book in the Out in Austin series. You don't have to have read the first one to know what is going on in this book but it is still an amazing read. Shiloh is self destructing and he knows it. He is being abused by a close friend and his father us oblivious. Shiloh's only way to manage it is by finding some way to control his life, while acting out against his father Gage is hired to protect him when threats are made, but are they even real? Can Gage get Shiloh to obey him? It turns out that Shiloh just wants someone to care about him, pay attention to him in the right way.
TW: on page assault and drug use
November 23, 2021
Dark but oh so divine. Loved every word.
Trigger Warnings - so take note!
Trigger Warnings - so take note!
November 20, 2021
One of the best reads for 2021
I laughed
I cried - happy and sad tears
I hoped
I cringed
I wanted to wrap Shiloh in bubble wrap and ravage those who dare to hurt him
I wanted to hug Gage and thank him for believing
This tore at my heart something fierce
The way the world sees Shiloh... Sure it seems he gives them reason but it is only a facade. There were moments I wanted to jump in and stop him but at the same time I got why he was doing it
When Gage enters the story he redirects and engages Shiloh in a way that allows him to shine to break free from his prison
I can't sum this one up without feeling like I will spoil it
Trust me on this -
If you enjoy flirty bratty twinks who carry the weight of the world on their shoulders and have the strength of Hercules
Stoic (lol you'll see) ex-military types who know how to handle their charges then this is the book for you
Lots of angst, the sweetest of romances (OMG melt my heart), and plenty of moments that will have you crying out white-knuckling your book then this is for you
Don't worry there is a HEA
This has some content that might be a trigger for some.
The world can be both a beautiful place and an ugly one.
I laughed
I cried - happy and sad tears
I hoped
I cringed
I wanted to wrap Shiloh in bubble wrap and ravage those who dare to hurt him
I wanted to hug Gage and thank him for believing
This tore at my heart something fierce
The way the world sees Shiloh... Sure it seems he gives them reason but it is only a facade. There were moments I wanted to jump in and stop him but at the same time I got why he was doing it
When Gage enters the story he redirects and engages Shiloh in a way that allows him to shine to break free from his prison
I can't sum this one up without feeling like I will spoil it
Trust me on this -
If you enjoy flirty bratty twinks who carry the weight of the world on their shoulders and have the strength of Hercules
Stoic (lol you'll see) ex-military types who know how to handle their charges then this is the book for you
Lots of angst, the sweetest of romances (OMG melt my heart), and plenty of moments that will have you crying out white-knuckling your book then this is for you
Don't worry there is a HEA
This has some content that might be a trigger for some.
The world can be both a beautiful place and an ugly one.
Read
July 30, 2022Awww Shiloh! I honestly just want to snuggle this little cupcake he's so sweet and endured so much. It was clear things were bad for him from book one but exploring the depths of his nightmares... Heartbreaking.
There are, however, too many instances of the same name being used over and over for different people in this book/series. There's at least two Joey's(maybe three?), two Hugo's, two Delia's, a Tommy, a Thomas and an officer Thomas, etc... And I really really don't understand why Shiloh would want to get a fake ID with the name Sam, all things considering, when he could have picked absolute anything to use. All the name repeats are confusing at times.
But name confusion aside, this was really good and tugs at your heartstrings. Surely book 3 can't be as heart wrenching as 1 and 2...
There are, however, too many instances of the same name being used over and over for different people in this book/series. There's at least two Joey's(maybe three?), two Hugo's, two Delia's, a Tommy, a Thomas and an officer Thomas, etc... And I really really don't understand why Shiloh would want to get a fake ID with the name Sam, all things considering, when he could have picked absolute anything to use. All the name repeats are confusing at times.
But name confusion aside, this was really good and tugs at your heartstrings. Surely book 3 can't be as heart wrenching as 1 and 2...
November 18, 2021
Lovely Story By A Wonderful Storyteller
I really love bodyguard stories and this one did not disappoint. At first, I wasn't sure what to make of Shiloh, but quickly I learned what made him act out the way he did, made him who he was. I liked Gage right away, but I didn't see how the two of them would mesh together. Once they started interacting, watching how their relationship played out, I was fully on board. It's like these two were made for each other and their roads meant to cross. I loved the story line. KD Ellis is a wonderful storyteller and I always love her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I really love bodyguard stories and this one did not disappoint. At first, I wasn't sure what to make of Shiloh, but quickly I learned what made him act out the way he did, made him who he was. I liked Gage right away, but I didn't see how the two of them would mesh together. Once they started interacting, watching how their relationship played out, I was fully on board. It's like these two were made for each other and their roads meant to cross. I loved the story line. KD Ellis is a wonderful storyteller and I always love her books.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 8, 2021
3.5 stars!
I was surprised and delighted by this story. I was expecting something cliché and juicy – which is both what I got and what I wanted – but I wasn’t expecting the high quality writing or the well developed storyline. So, win!
This is without a doubt a cheesy story. There’s no way around that. But it’s a good kind of cheesy that manages to keep from tipping over to silly. And the major reason for that is the care with which Ellis constructed the plot, and the multiple twists of the story. Sure, the supporting characters might be stereotypes, but that doesn’t really take away from the enjoyment of the read. The build-up and gradual reveal of facts about Shiloh and his circumstances were perfectly executed. Yes, one may argue that Shiloh’s inability to disclose his “secret” and save himself is a bit far fetched. He is an adult after all, and should perhaps have been able to break free of the fears he felt as a young teen. But regardless, I enjoyed this book a whole lot.
Both Shiloh and Gage are pretty well rounded characters. But I found it much easier to connect to Shiloh, since he is the more emotional one of the two. Gage on the other hand is, not staid exactly, but definitely steady and stable. Shiloh’s saviour, literally and figuratively.
However, despite them complementing each other on paper, the chemistry was a bit lacking. Because descriptions of how hot they find the other isn’t enough to build actual sexual tension. Luckily, the plot development compensated for the missing sizzle, and I was utterly engaged in the story to the very end.
Recommend!
* A free copy of this book was kindly provided by Gay Romance Reviews *
https://reflectionsofaswedishgirl.blo...
I was surprised and delighted by this story. I was expecting something cliché and juicy – which is both what I got and what I wanted – but I wasn’t expecting the high quality writing or the well developed storyline. So, win!
This is without a doubt a cheesy story. There’s no way around that. But it’s a good kind of cheesy that manages to keep from tipping over to silly. And the major reason for that is the care with which Ellis constructed the plot, and the multiple twists of the story. Sure, the supporting characters might be stereotypes, but that doesn’t really take away from the enjoyment of the read. The build-up and gradual reveal of facts about Shiloh and his circumstances were perfectly executed. Yes, one may argue that Shiloh’s inability to disclose his “secret” and save himself is a bit far fetched. He is an adult after all, and should perhaps have been able to break free of the fears he felt as a young teen. But regardless, I enjoyed this book a whole lot.
Both Shiloh and Gage are pretty well rounded characters. But I found it much easier to connect to Shiloh, since he is the more emotional one of the two. Gage on the other hand is, not staid exactly, but definitely steady and stable. Shiloh’s saviour, literally and figuratively.
However, despite them complementing each other on paper, the chemistry was a bit lacking. Because descriptions of how hot they find the other isn’t enough to build actual sexual tension. Luckily, the plot development compensated for the missing sizzle, and I was utterly engaged in the story to the very end.
Recommend!
* A free copy of this book was kindly provided by Gay Romance Reviews *
https://reflectionsofaswedishgirl.blo...
December 28, 2021
The synopsis had me hooked and I had high expectations. And boy did the author deliver. There are so many elements to this story.
We have Shiloh, on the surface a spoilt rich brat and party animal. Some would say he is out of control of his life.
Then we Gage, a bodyguard, who thinks babysitting a rich kid is below his skills.
We have the strained relationship between Shiloh and his father. Their communication is so broken, that they have drifted apart.
Under the surface and away from the headlines, the real Shiloh, is not as out of control, as people may think. He is crying out for attention from his father. The only way he knows how, by rebelling and hitting the headlines with his playboy brat lifestyle.
I found Shiloh’s character very interesting, right from the start I felt his actions were covering up something very dark from his past. The author was very clever in the way we found out in snippets of information / reactions, that he is very damages and needs someone who cares enough to listen.
I liked the slow progression of their relationship from bodyguard /client to lovers, how each fought their feelings until they could not fight a moment longer.
There are many tears, but there are some funny moments, especially when Gage thinks he is one step a head of Shiloh, only to find out he has been given the slip.
There is a feeling of real danger, and you might find yourself yelling at Shiloh for the situations he puts himself in.
The author has done a great job not only creating fully dimensional characters, but by the way their emotions are portrayed. I really did feel the hurt, betrayal, hopelessness and eventually the relief and hope.
I thought the book was pretty well paced, though some of the unravelling of Shiloh’s past maybes could have been spaced a little more. But all in all a great entertaining read.
We have Shiloh, on the surface a spoilt rich brat and party animal. Some would say he is out of control of his life.
Then we Gage, a bodyguard, who thinks babysitting a rich kid is below his skills.
We have the strained relationship between Shiloh and his father. Their communication is so broken, that they have drifted apart.
Under the surface and away from the headlines, the real Shiloh, is not as out of control, as people may think. He is crying out for attention from his father. The only way he knows how, by rebelling and hitting the headlines with his playboy brat lifestyle.
I found Shiloh’s character very interesting, right from the start I felt his actions were covering up something very dark from his past. The author was very clever in the way we found out in snippets of information / reactions, that he is very damages and needs someone who cares enough to listen.
I liked the slow progression of their relationship from bodyguard /client to lovers, how each fought their feelings until they could not fight a moment longer.
There are many tears, but there are some funny moments, especially when Gage thinks he is one step a head of Shiloh, only to find out he has been given the slip.
There is a feeling of real danger, and you might find yourself yelling at Shiloh for the situations he puts himself in.
The author has done a great job not only creating fully dimensional characters, but by the way their emotions are portrayed. I really did feel the hurt, betrayal, hopelessness and eventually the relief and hope.
I thought the book was pretty well paced, though some of the unravelling of Shiloh’s past maybes could have been spaced a little more. But all in all a great entertaining read.
November 22, 2021
I devoured this book in one day! No lie, it was sensational.
Now as a warning to whoever may want to read this book, it contains triggers that are listed by the author and those triggers are there throughout the book.
The story itself revolves are Shiloh - he has been tagged by the media as out of control party boy yet the media image is totally different to the person (once you get to know him). We go on a journey with Shiloh finding a small details of his past which bleed into his present self; his past is dark, heart wrenching and you just want to gather him up to hug and never let him go. As the story progresses we find out there is so much more to Shiloh and very quickly it becomes evident that the story is about Shiloh and Shiloh only. Throughout the story, we do find out bits about Gage; the author didn't really go into deep detail with Gage, we learn about his past, his injury but I didn't really mind because this story is about Shiloh; of course, Gage plays a fundamental part in the sexual tension between himself and Shiloh and further along, he does become an anchor for Shiloh was the secrets are eventually spilt and come to light.
This book from me is getting a solid 5 stars; it kept me totally captivated throughout and I couldn't put it down; it is dark, it is heavy and steps into territory which it is important to note the triggers and also be aware; that the triggers are there throughout the book. There is a book before Shiloh's as a character is mentioned; you can read it as a standalone but if you want to fill in the blanks about Shiloh and Teddy, you may have to read Teddy's book.
Now as a warning to whoever may want to read this book, it contains triggers that are listed by the author and those triggers are there throughout the book.
The story itself revolves are Shiloh - he has been tagged by the media as out of control party boy yet the media image is totally different to the person (once you get to know him). We go on a journey with Shiloh finding a small details of his past which bleed into his present self; his past is dark, heart wrenching and you just want to gather him up to hug and never let him go. As the story progresses we find out there is so much more to Shiloh and very quickly it becomes evident that the story is about Shiloh and Shiloh only. Throughout the story, we do find out bits about Gage; the author didn't really go into deep detail with Gage, we learn about his past, his injury but I didn't really mind because this story is about Shiloh; of course, Gage plays a fundamental part in the sexual tension between himself and Shiloh and further along, he does become an anchor for Shiloh was the secrets are eventually spilt and come to light.
This book from me is getting a solid 5 stars; it kept me totally captivated throughout and I couldn't put it down; it is dark, it is heavy and steps into territory which it is important to note the triggers and also be aware; that the triggers are there throughout the book. There is a book before Shiloh's as a character is mentioned; you can read it as a standalone but if you want to fill in the blanks about Shiloh and Teddy, you may have to read Teddy's book.
November 22, 2021
Angsty, steamy M/M bodyguard romance with Daddy/little trope and a mystery
I read TEDDY’S TRUTH about Shiloh’s friend Theodora who became Teddy. This is what I said at the beginning of that review: “There are warnings to be mentioned. There is forcibly taken non-consent as well as beatings and other dangerous ‘activity’ perpetrated on Teddy and his gay friend Shiloh. Cruelty is not over-stated. If you can handle these events, please read this book.” Fortunately in SHILOH, most of the force occurs off-page but its description can be graphic. Having said that, I truly enjoyed learning about Shiloh after reading TEDDY.
Shiloh is a 21yo trust fund brat who acts out; later we find out because of a traumatic experience. Currently he has a stalker so his absentee (not physically but emotionally) father has called in bodyguards to assist. Shiloh makes a game of how long it takes to get rid of his bodyguards until he meets 28yo Gage who’s not having it! Only problem is that Shiloh is just the kind of submissive twink that Gage likes. Takes a while until the trust and submission gets there but so worth the wait.
I’m not all that fond of Daddy/little stories but this one is not that explicit. There are a few scenes but nothing too outrageous. The writing and editing were well done and the story kept me enthralled. Toward the end it became a page-turner. There were some really good secondary characters which made this book even better. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and I give it 4.5 stars.
I read TEDDY’S TRUTH about Shiloh’s friend Theodora who became Teddy. This is what I said at the beginning of that review: “There are warnings to be mentioned. There is forcibly taken non-consent as well as beatings and other dangerous ‘activity’ perpetrated on Teddy and his gay friend Shiloh. Cruelty is not over-stated. If you can handle these events, please read this book.” Fortunately in SHILOH, most of the force occurs off-page but its description can be graphic. Having said that, I truly enjoyed learning about Shiloh after reading TEDDY.
Shiloh is a 21yo trust fund brat who acts out; later we find out because of a traumatic experience. Currently he has a stalker so his absentee (not physically but emotionally) father has called in bodyguards to assist. Shiloh makes a game of how long it takes to get rid of his bodyguards until he meets 28yo Gage who’s not having it! Only problem is that Shiloh is just the kind of submissive twink that Gage likes. Takes a while until the trust and submission gets there but so worth the wait.
I’m not all that fond of Daddy/little stories but this one is not that explicit. There are a few scenes but nothing too outrageous. The writing and editing were well done and the story kept me enthralled. Toward the end it became a page-turner. There were some really good secondary characters which made this book even better. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through Gay Romance Reviews and I give it 4.5 stars.
October 18, 2021
4.5 stars. Shiloh’s Secret is a dark and gritty bodyguard/client romance with a bit of daddy kink. Shiloh’s tech industry leader father has hired ex-military Gage to keep his son out of trouble, out of the tabloids, and out of harm’s way, but Gage takes his job protecting Shiloh very seriously and soon realizes Shiloh isn’t the spoiled party boy the tabloids make him out to be, but a lonely, traumatized young man trying to get out of a desperate situation.
Even though the attraction is instant, the romance is a bit slow burn, but there’s so much going on that you don’t miss it. There’s a ton of sexual tension, flirting, and snarky banter with Shiloh being bratty and Gage being stern but somehow also good-natured. The daddy kink element isn't a huge part of the story, it's more just a natural progression of their relationship dynamic, but I felt the daddy/boy dynamic worked for the characters and the story. This book is plot heavy, dramatic, and angsty, but it’s also so engaging and gripping I didn’t want to put it down! I loved Shiloh and Gage and was rooting for them to be safe and happy. There were also some side characters that I’m interested in and kind of wanting their stories too. Mason and Ryder are definitely a book waiting to happen and possibly Shiloh’s dad? I’m thinking he could use a redemption story.
TW: Self harm, suicidal ideation, past child abuse/ongoing sexual assault (off page, but is remembered/recounted/described)
Even though the attraction is instant, the romance is a bit slow burn, but there’s so much going on that you don’t miss it. There’s a ton of sexual tension, flirting, and snarky banter with Shiloh being bratty and Gage being stern but somehow also good-natured. The daddy kink element isn't a huge part of the story, it's more just a natural progression of their relationship dynamic, but I felt the daddy/boy dynamic worked for the characters and the story. This book is plot heavy, dramatic, and angsty, but it’s also so engaging and gripping I didn’t want to put it down! I loved Shiloh and Gage and was rooting for them to be safe and happy. There were also some side characters that I’m interested in and kind of wanting their stories too. Mason and Ryder are definitely a book waiting to happen and possibly Shiloh’s dad? I’m thinking he could use a redemption story.
TW: Self harm, suicidal ideation, past child abuse/ongoing sexual assault (off page, but is remembered/recounted/described)
November 16, 2021
Classic rich bad boy with an overbearing father who hires a bodyguard for his kid. Sort of.
Shiloh seems super shallow. Partying, sneaking out, skipping classes, etc. But he is also a go go dancer at a club and turns tricks? Ultimately I got it, but for a lot of the book Shiloh was just all over the place.
His newest bodyguard, Gage, is determined to keep Shiloh safe from a potential stalker who sends threatening letters. Shiloh's father expects Gage to be a babysitter, but that isn't his job.
The beginning of the book- ok, maybe the first half- was kind of all over the place. Gage is a former Ranger who gets the slip for this guy twice in as many days? And not to be ableist, but having a prosthetic leg seems to be a hindrance when you're basically a 24/7 bodyguard. And Shiloh is a local celebrity stalked by paparazzi, but he isn't recognized when he is a go go dancer? Or when he is tricking? His father treats him like an 8 year old as well.
But then the story started to tighten up. Almost like when Shiloh started really trusting Gage is when things started making sense. Then I started caring about the characters. I wanted a lot more of the second half and a lot less of the first half.
And, I'm sorry, but the epilogue? Never would happen. Sorry, I know too much about that world to know that there is zero chance.
Shiloh seems super shallow. Partying, sneaking out, skipping classes, etc. But he is also a go go dancer at a club and turns tricks? Ultimately I got it, but for a lot of the book Shiloh was just all over the place.
His newest bodyguard, Gage, is determined to keep Shiloh safe from a potential stalker who sends threatening letters. Shiloh's father expects Gage to be a babysitter, but that isn't his job.
The beginning of the book- ok, maybe the first half- was kind of all over the place. Gage is a former Ranger who gets the slip for this guy twice in as many days? And not to be ableist, but having a prosthetic leg seems to be a hindrance when you're basically a 24/7 bodyguard. And Shiloh is a local celebrity stalked by paparazzi, but he isn't recognized when he is a go go dancer? Or when he is tricking? His father treats him like an 8 year old as well.
But then the story started to tighten up. Almost like when Shiloh started really trusting Gage is when things started making sense. Then I started caring about the characters. I wanted a lot more of the second half and a lot less of the first half.
And, I'm sorry, but the epilogue? Never would happen. Sorry, I know too much about that world to know that there is zero chance.
November 9, 2021
Shiloh’s Secret is incredibly dark and heavy, but it’s also a really beautiful love story. There’s a lot happening in this book, but the pacing works really well and there’s tension until the very end. Shiloh seems like a rich spoiled party boy, dancing at strip clubs and prostituting himself for extra cash. Gage is hired as his bodyguard after his family receives threatening letters from a stalker. They fight a lot at the beginning, and Shiloh constantly tries to give Gage the slip and baits him at every opportunity. However, as the story progresses, we learn why Shiloh behaves the way that he does. Shiloh is such a complex character, a man who hides behind false bravado to mask his pain and vulnerability. He’s been through a lot, and my heart broke for him over and over. He wants so badly to be loved and understood, and Gage is the first person to really see him for who he is. Gage believes in Shiloh, teaches him to trust, and gives him hope that his life can be better. There are some really graphic and disturbing parts to the story, so readers should definitely heed any trigger warnings.
November 17, 2021
Shiloh and Gage . . .
This is a very intense book, not for the casual reader. Shiloh Beckett’s father hired ex-military Gage Tucker from Eagle Security to protect his son, heir to Beckett Industries, and keep him out of trouble while not letting Shiloh know the full extent of the danger, i.e. the threats. Gage recognizes quickly that Shiloh is not what he expected, not a trust fund brat, and not what the press says he is. And he doesn’t trust easily, with good reason.
When he discovers that it’s not simply the media chasing after Shiloh, the job of protecting him ramps up higher. And he must get Shiloh to trust him or he will not be able to keep him safe.
There is so much more to this book but, as mentioned, it is intense and emotional and is best experienced rather than just discussed. The story line is amazing, not always easy to read, but well-written. The slow burn love story will also have the reader’s full attention. The characters are both complex and survivors, and it is easy to respect them both for the things they have gone through. The story here is memorable, probably unforgettable, but worth reading.
This is a very intense book, not for the casual reader. Shiloh Beckett’s father hired ex-military Gage Tucker from Eagle Security to protect his son, heir to Beckett Industries, and keep him out of trouble while not letting Shiloh know the full extent of the danger, i.e. the threats. Gage recognizes quickly that Shiloh is not what he expected, not a trust fund brat, and not what the press says he is. And he doesn’t trust easily, with good reason.
When he discovers that it’s not simply the media chasing after Shiloh, the job of protecting him ramps up higher. And he must get Shiloh to trust him or he will not be able to keep him safe.
There is so much more to this book but, as mentioned, it is intense and emotional and is best experienced rather than just discussed. The story line is amazing, not always easy to read, but well-written. The slow burn love story will also have the reader’s full attention. The characters are both complex and survivors, and it is easy to respect them both for the things they have gone through. The story here is memorable, probably unforgettable, but worth reading.
November 17, 2021
This is the second book in the series and while it can be read as a stand-alone, it does answer some questions raised in the first book. It does cover some heavy themes so I recommend reading the trigger warnings first.
Having read Teddy’s Truth I should have been prepared for how emotional this one was going to be but it still took me by surprise. Shiloh is the heir to a tech company who is constantly protected by bodyguards as he has a stalker. Gage is the newest bodyguard to be appointed as Shiloh has given all of his previous guards the slip.
This was such a good book but it was quite a heavy read as there are a lot of dark themes covered. I loved that we got answers to the questions raised in the first book and that we also got to revisit some of the previous characters and places. I also loved the way the relationship developed between Shiloh and Gage and how Gage was protective without being overbearing. As long as you are good with the triggers I would recommend this one as it was a really gripping story.
Having read Teddy’s Truth I should have been prepared for how emotional this one was going to be but it still took me by surprise. Shiloh is the heir to a tech company who is constantly protected by bodyguards as he has a stalker. Gage is the newest bodyguard to be appointed as Shiloh has given all of his previous guards the slip.
This was such a good book but it was quite a heavy read as there are a lot of dark themes covered. I loved that we got answers to the questions raised in the first book and that we also got to revisit some of the previous characters and places. I also loved the way the relationship developed between Shiloh and Gage and how Gage was protective without being overbearing. As long as you are good with the triggers I would recommend this one as it was a really gripping story.
November 17, 2021
Nothing is as it seems. Shiloh, is an heir to tech industry riches. He is a bit money averse, realizing that money does not buy happiness. Gage, is a disabled Vet, working in the security services. He has a highly developed protect and serve work ethic. He is challenged by the new job of protecting what he presumed was a spoiled rich kid. Gage and Shiloh both experienced traumatic childhoods which shaped the men they are today. They both dragged heavy baggage. Shiloh, acted out against his father in many unhealthy ways. Did anyone ever ask, why? Is Gage able to protect Shiloh from the bad guys? Is Gage able to bring the bad guys to justice? Does Shiloh find his balance, his peace? Good story, not light, pulls at your heart strings. The reader may put the story down pulling a bit of baggage. This is one story, the reader really feels. Nicely done. I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review.
July 11, 2022
Trigger warnings: please be aware and read them - seriously
I have had this book on my tbr for a while and stopped and started several times on it.
It was a hard book to read due to all that happened in it to one of the mc and the consequental habits and behaviou. And the other mc, the bodyguard, has had his share of troubles.
I found it at times difficult to connect with the characters, but I guess that is the strength of the writing. I loved to have seen more of the relationshipdevelopment between the mcs after the baddy had been 'caught'. For me I was fearing ,early on, one of the side characters was the real bad guy and that turned out to be true.
I find it hard to rate this book, because it does not really feel like a daddy/ boy book to me as expected, but I want to applaud the author for the daring chooses. So probably a 4-.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I have had this book on my tbr for a while and stopped and started several times on it.
It was a hard book to read due to all that happened in it to one of the mc and the consequental habits and behaviou. And the other mc, the bodyguard, has had his share of troubles.
I found it at times difficult to connect with the characters, but I guess that is the strength of the writing. I loved to have seen more of the relationshipdevelopment between the mcs after the baddy had been 'caught'. For me I was fearing ,early on, one of the side characters was the real bad guy and that turned out to be true.
I find it hard to rate this book, because it does not really feel like a daddy/ boy book to me as expected, but I want to applaud the author for the daring chooses. So probably a 4-.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 30, 2021
To the world, Shiloh Beckett is a spoiled rosy kid, heir to his father’s tech empire. He’s irresponsible, selfish, and lives dangerously. But no one knows that Shiloh has secrets, and there’s so much more to his reckless behavior than anyone knows. When his father hires ex-Army bodyguard Gage Tucker to protect Shiloh, at first he thinks this is just another person who sees him as a commodity. But he’s wrong about that, because Gage is quite serious about his commitment to keeping Shiloh safe.
Shiloh has so many layers, and is completely different on the inside than his public face. And Gage is more than just a steel-faced bodyguard. This book has so much going on and the plot never stops, it’s an absolute roller coaster of emotions, fear, crimes, and building of trust. Literally couldn’t put it down!
Shiloh has so many layers, and is completely different on the inside than his public face. And Gage is more than just a steel-faced bodyguard. This book has so much going on and the plot never stops, it’s an absolute roller coaster of emotions, fear, crimes, and building of trust. Literally couldn’t put it down!
November 7, 2021
Off the back of Teddy’s book I wanted to learn about Shiloh’s story. Although this can be read as a standalone.
It’s not an easy story to read but the writing kept me turning the page. My heart breaks for Shiloh and Gage wasn’t without his own story. Together they were the light at the end of the tunnel.
It’s full of drama and quite a bit of suspense. There were moments where my heart stopped beating in fear for the characters. It’s a really good bodyguard protector story, but not light and fluffy.
It does come with some triggers warnings but it’s well worth reading through the pain. There is a HEA.
I received an arc of this book via GRR but I am leaving my review voluntarily.
It’s not an easy story to read but the writing kept me turning the page. My heart breaks for Shiloh and Gage wasn’t without his own story. Together they were the light at the end of the tunnel.
It’s full of drama and quite a bit of suspense. There were moments where my heart stopped beating in fear for the characters. It’s a really good bodyguard protector story, but not light and fluffy.
It does come with some triggers warnings but it’s well worth reading through the pain. There is a HEA.
I received an arc of this book via GRR but I am leaving my review voluntarily.
November 14, 2021
This story was definitely a page turner for me. So much to learn about all of the characters and all of the trauma that they have been through and continue to experience. Gage definitely didn't start off liking Shiloh right away but he quickly learns that there is so much more under the surface. Shiloh doesn't trust easily but he learns that Gage is someone who he can truly count on to take care of him. These characters are so damaged and your heart really breaks for them. There is plenty of intrigue as these two work to survive and find Shiloh's stalker and just maybe make a future together. I did receive a copy of this book from Gay Romance Reviews and this is my honest review.
November 16, 2021
Gage is Shiloh’s bodyguard and as the title says Shiloh has a secret. He actually has quite a few secrets but the big one isn’t hard to guess even though everyone around him is oblivious. I found this book to be a well written solid story that delves into some rather disturbing things, most of the worst of which take place off screen but please take the trigger warnings seriously. There is nothing unique about this tale but it’s still a great read that I would recommend to anyone who likes their daddy books with a darker edge to them.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
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