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Chain Reaction #1
Catalyst
Detective Quinn Hughes doesn’t have many regrets in life, but Sebastian Devlin is the biggest. As a cop and a defence lawyer, the deck was stacked against them to start with, but Quinn was the one who left a burning inferno behind him. Missing his chance with ex-Special Forces Commando Peyton Sinclair is a close second on his regrets list, but Quinn isn’t going to ruin the happiness Peyton has found with fellow police officer Will McMahon for anything—not even a chance at his own happiness.
Best friends Will McMahon and Peyton Sinclair have been hooking up for years, content with their arrangement and the comfort they get from it. When Sebastian—the hot lawyer they picked up at the club the night before—stumbles over a dead body in their kitchen on his way out, calling Quinn is instinctive for them. Years of unacknowledged tension between Peyton and Quinn is a sore point, but Peyton trusts that Quinn will figure out the mess they’ve landed in.
While Quinn tries to find answers, Peyton and Will quickly find themselves tangled in the tension between Quinn and Sebastian. They’re hoping Quinn can move fast—before one of them becomes the next dead body—but the situation becomes even more complicated when another explosive night proves that Peyton and Will aren’t done with either Quinn or Sebastian, just as much as the two aren’t done with each other.
Between the mind-blowing night Sebastian spent with Peyton and Will, and the fact that every time he turns around it’s either Quinn or the barrel of a gun waiting for him, Sebastian has never had more regrets. If he can survive long enough to get some answers, maybe the four of them together are going to be the catalyst for a future that’s more wildly different than anything they’d ever imagined.
Catalyst is a 90,000-word MMMM romance that ends in a HFN. It is Book 1 in an ongoing series following the same four men and their relationship. It contains adult situations, gun use, references to murder and drug usage, suspense themes and a character with PTSD
Best friends Will McMahon and Peyton Sinclair have been hooking up for years, content with their arrangement and the comfort they get from it. When Sebastian—the hot lawyer they picked up at the club the night before—stumbles over a dead body in their kitchen on his way out, calling Quinn is instinctive for them. Years of unacknowledged tension between Peyton and Quinn is a sore point, but Peyton trusts that Quinn will figure out the mess they’ve landed in.
While Quinn tries to find answers, Peyton and Will quickly find themselves tangled in the tension between Quinn and Sebastian. They’re hoping Quinn can move fast—before one of them becomes the next dead body—but the situation becomes even more complicated when another explosive night proves that Peyton and Will aren’t done with either Quinn or Sebastian, just as much as the two aren’t done with each other.
Between the mind-blowing night Sebastian spent with Peyton and Will, and the fact that every time he turns around it’s either Quinn or the barrel of a gun waiting for him, Sebastian has never had more regrets. If he can survive long enough to get some answers, maybe the four of them together are going to be the catalyst for a future that’s more wildly different than anything they’d ever imagined.
Catalyst is a 90,000-word MMMM romance that ends in a HFN. It is Book 1 in an ongoing series following the same four men and their relationship. It contains adult situations, gun use, references to murder and drug usage, suspense themes and a character with PTSD
317 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 17, 2022
222 people are currently reading
682 people want to read
About the author
Aurora Crane
15 books133 followersAurora Crane is an Australian author who loves to write romance with a healthy serving of banter, snark and all the swoon.
Her books are a mix of MM and MM+. She loves to write men in suits, sprawling universes with a plethora of side characters, and an abundance of steamy situations.
You can find all her links here: https://linktr.ee/auroracrane
Her books are a mix of MM and MM+. She loves to write men in suits, sprawling universes with a plethora of side characters, and an abundance of steamy situations.
You can find all her links here: https://linktr.ee/auroracrane
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
July 7, 2025
re-read on audio June 2025
Look. I looooove listening to JF Harding. And he was honestly the only reason I went for the audio instead of a re-read. And not that I minded one bit but it’s still weird that the author chose an American narrator for Australian men. *lol
Anyhow. Finally jumping into the second book. On audio, of course.
4**** stars
This was quite the ride! And with so many main characters involved you get quite the list of enticing tropes here: hookup with a stranger, a bit of second chance 💀, a bit of best friends to lovers, a crush + year-long pining to lovers, a bit of forced proximity and a murder-mystery.
With that said, let’s meet the four protagonists:
⇢ Will: (28) leader tactical team on the police force, best friends and roommate with Peyton, having also been exclusive f*buddies for years
⇢ Peyton: (25) ex-special ops soldier, sniper, has a heavy crush on Quinn, his big brother’s friend and colleague
⇢ Sebastian: (30) Defense lawyer, lands in bed with Will & Peyton after meeting as strangers at a bar
⇢ Quinn: (32) Detective, partnered with Grady, rejected Peyton’s advances for years for (at first) unknown reasons, Sebastian’s ex
When Seb wants to leave Will’s and Peyton’s apartment after a night of hot sex, they discover a dead body that was placed there (either while they were sleeping or fucking). And Peyton calls the Detective he knows. Quinn. His crush. And unknowingly so, also Sebastian’s ex-boyfriend. Hahaha, that was one hell of a scene.
I had to suspend my disbelief a bit here as these four men suddenly had the hots for each other (like everyone for everyone) in equal measure but I just rolled with it and it was fine. I honestly loved that it was so straight forward. *thumbs up
Though, so far there was no real depth to neither the characters nor the plot imo, it was all pretty shallow, really. But I didn’t mind much. The mystery was nice to read but I mostly had the feeling that the purpose of all the action was to further pave the way for the guys to get closer and add more thrill to the story. Again, pretty straight forward.
Overall I enjoyed this read very much and the spice was good and plenty in various constellations. The book ends with a delicate HFN, they still have a long way to go and I hope we’ll get more on the background of the guys and see their bond strengthen.
And as for THE CATALYST, well… the author added another M to the already four M’s of this book in the next one. Like it isn’t messy enough already. *lmfao But before that… Grady.
my advice: take a notepad and write down every character’s name you pass and make a note about their connection to other characters. It’s A LOT to keep up with. 🤣
*************
Chain Reaction Series
Book 1 - Catalyst - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Reactant - 3.0 stars
Book 3 - Cohesion
connected in the same universe ⇢ “Third Time Lucky” - tbr
Grady (Quinn’s partner) is such a dick, it was so hard to like him in here but I’m damn curious about his book!
Look. I looooove listening to JF Harding. And he was honestly the only reason I went for the audio instead of a re-read. And not that I minded one bit but it’s still weird that the author chose an American narrator for Australian men. *lol
Anyhow. Finally jumping into the second book. On audio, of course.
4**** stars
This was quite the ride! And with so many main characters involved you get quite the list of enticing tropes here: hookup with a stranger, a bit of second chance 💀, a bit of best friends to lovers, a crush + year-long pining to lovers, a bit of forced proximity and a murder-mystery.
With that said, let’s meet the four protagonists:
⇢ Will: (28) leader tactical team on the police force, best friends and roommate with Peyton, having also been exclusive f*buddies for years
⇢ Peyton: (25) ex-special ops soldier, sniper, has a heavy crush on Quinn, his big brother’s friend and colleague
⇢ Sebastian: (30) Defense lawyer, lands in bed with Will & Peyton after meeting as strangers at a bar
⇢ Quinn: (32) Detective, partnered with Grady, rejected Peyton’s advances for years for (at first) unknown reasons, Sebastian’s ex
When Seb wants to leave Will’s and Peyton’s apartment after a night of hot sex, they discover a dead body that was placed there (either while they were sleeping or fucking). And Peyton calls the Detective he knows. Quinn. His crush. And unknowingly so, also Sebastian’s ex-boyfriend. Hahaha, that was one hell of a scene.
I had to suspend my disbelief a bit here as these four men suddenly had the hots for each other (like everyone for everyone) in equal measure but I just rolled with it and it was fine. I honestly loved that it was so straight forward. *thumbs up
They’d all been waiting for each other.
Waiting for this.
Though, so far there was no real depth to neither the characters nor the plot imo, it was all pretty shallow, really. But I didn’t mind much. The mystery was nice to read but I mostly had the feeling that the purpose of all the action was to further pave the way for the guys to get closer and add more thrill to the story. Again, pretty straight forward.
Overall I enjoyed this read very much and the spice was good and plenty in various constellations. The book ends with a delicate HFN, they still have a long way to go and I hope we’ll get more on the background of the guys and see their bond strengthen.
And as for THE CATALYST, well… the author added another M to the already four M’s of this book in the next one. Like it isn’t messy enough already. *lmfao But before that… Grady.
my advice: take a notepad and write down every character’s name you pass and make a note about their connection to other characters. It’s A LOT to keep up with. 🤣
*************
Chain Reaction Series
Book 1 - Catalyst - 4.0 stars
Book 2 - Reactant - 3.0 stars
Book 3 - Cohesion
connected in the same universe ⇢ “Third Time Lucky” - tbr
Grady (Quinn’s partner) is such a dick, it was so hard to like him in here but I’m damn curious about his book!
November 26, 2022
How anyone can give a positive review is beyond me. Way too many characters and far too many moving parts. The plot was muddled and winding. The ending was just as bad. I'm definitely getting a refund.
If anyone wants to write a polyamory relationship - they should look at Willa Okati's Big Enough for Five. There are five distinct men with their own voices and personalities which made it very easy to keep track of who's who. There are only two supporting characters who provided just the right support without overwhelming the story. And there wasn't any complicated, convoluted, and elaborate plot to deal with. It was a hot and romantic story about five men coming together.
If anyone wants to write a polyamory relationship - they should look at Willa Okati's Big Enough for Five. There are five distinct men with their own voices and personalities which made it very easy to keep track of who's who. There are only two supporting characters who provided just the right support without overwhelming the story. And there wasn't any complicated, convoluted, and elaborate plot to deal with. It was a hot and romantic story about five men coming together.
April 25, 2024
4/24
Reread because book 3 is out and I needed a refresher. Still SO good!
October ‘23
I haven’t been loving most of the books I’ve read lately but this one, so good. Once I got through the first few chapters and got to know the FOUR mc’s, I didn’t want to stop reading. Looking forward to book 2!
Reread because book 3 is out and I needed a refresher. Still SO good!
October ‘23
I haven’t been loving most of the books I’ve read lately but this one, so good. Once I got through the first few chapters and got to know the FOUR mc’s, I didn’t want to stop reading. Looking forward to book 2!
November 26, 2022
A Joyfully Jay review.
4 stars
Catalyst is the first book in in Aurora Crane’s Chain Reaction series featuring this unique foursome. Crane is a relatively new-to-me author and I picked this one up after really enjoying her book Day of Judgment, co-written with Briar Kearney. The books have a very similar feel with the suspense, the law enforcement elements, and the multi-partner romance, so I found a lot to really enjoy about this one as well.
It did take me a little while to get settled into things here, as we meet a lot of characters early on who are all interconnected and keeping track of everyone and their relationships was a little overwhelming. In addition to our four main characters, there are a handful of other prominent side characters and we are introduced to pretty much all of them at once. The men are all tied together in a massive six degrees of separation situation (though it is more like two degrees).
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
4 stars
Catalyst is the first book in in Aurora Crane’s Chain Reaction series featuring this unique foursome. Crane is a relatively new-to-me author and I picked this one up after really enjoying her book Day of Judgment, co-written with Briar Kearney. The books have a very similar feel with the suspense, the law enforcement elements, and the multi-partner romance, so I found a lot to really enjoy about this one as well.
It did take me a little while to get settled into things here, as we meet a lot of characters early on who are all interconnected and keeping track of everyone and their relationships was a little overwhelming. In addition to our four main characters, there are a handful of other prominent side characters and we are introduced to pretty much all of them at once. The men are all tied together in a massive six degrees of separation situation (though it is more like two degrees).
Read Jay’s review in its entirety here.
November 16, 2022
Wow, wow, wow!! Holy hotness! I've been reading Aurora when she used other pen names, and I was a huge fan of the Thicker than Blood series. This is not a remake of that series, yes the character names are familiar, but the characters aren't, they are new people with different lives. I loved that Will and Peyton were together, but weren't together, but clearly love each other.....men! I also loved the history between Quinn and Seb and Peyton and Quinn and how Will wasn't afraid to be vulnerable and voice his thoughts. Just excellent all round, I simply must have more....now please.
I received an ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
I received an ARC for an honest and voluntary review.
April 23, 2023
2 Stars
Everyone wants to f*ck everyone and for no good reason. Didn't like the characters and the ending was bad.
Everyone wants to f*ck everyone and for no good reason. Didn't like the characters and the ending was bad.
April 26, 2024
Loved this! The writing is so vibrant - so you have the 4 MCs, all with their own voices, and then a ton of excellent side characters (partners, siblings, co-workers) and the interactions are fabulous. So the murder plot is 'whatever', but I really enjoyed the writing and banter (and Sebastian's coffee addiction. Really, I just loved Sebastian.) Much like life, you don't get the full story about everyone all at once (or even at all) and not all the loose ends are neatly tied off. It was fluffy and great and believable if you squint. Fair amount of sex as relationship builder, but again, I was just here for the coffee, Quinn counting to 5 before strangling someone, and Quinn's cop partner being an ass.
So Quinn (the detective) and Sebastian (the defense lawyer) were deeply in love many years ago, broke up hard, and both have some serious unspoken regrets. (Pining, lots of pining) Meanwhile Quinn eventually fell hard for a 'youngster" Peyton (ex-sniper) just before deployment and then seemingly lost Peyton's affection for Will, who have been sex buddies for several years now.
One fateful night has all of them together facing their pasts and attractions. So the only reason the insta love works is because several of the men have long-standing attraction already between them. And Quinn and Sebastian really carry the load and I just love their 2nd chance romance.
So
Sebastian + Quinn; Quinn + Peyton; Peyton + Will = one big happy family eventually.
"Hmm. Ex-boyfriend and current hook-ups all in one room. I bet that was fun," Hunter said.
"Don't forget the dead body," Caleb said unhelpfully
Sebastian squeezed his eyes shut. Kill count? Why was this happening to him? He'd just wanted to get laid.
We're just waiting for you.
Quinn wasn't sure he'd ever heard a more perfect sentence. Five words that summed them up in a way he could never hoped to describe. They'd all be waiting for each other.
Waiting for this.
“I'm sorry that I didn't trust you back then,” Quinn said softly. “ I'm sorry I didn't believe you, Seb. You hadn't given me any reason to doubt you. I would take it back, but I can't.” His fingers trailed down Sebastian's neck, and Sebastian wished that it didn't feel so good, wished that he didn't crave it so much. “I'm sorry that you were alone so long, and that I wasn't there to show you that you had someone to lean on.”
“I have people to lean on,” Sebastian said stiffly.
Quinn's smile was sad, and Sebastian refused to feel guilty. “
Then I'm sorry that I'm not one of them.
So Quinn (the detective) and Sebastian (the defense lawyer) were deeply in love many years ago, broke up hard, and both have some serious unspoken regrets. (Pining, lots of pining) Meanwhile Quinn eventually fell hard for a 'youngster" Peyton (ex-sniper) just before deployment and then seemingly lost Peyton's affection for Will, who have been sex buddies for several years now.
One fateful night has all of them together facing their pasts and attractions. So the only reason the insta love works is because several of the men have long-standing attraction already between them. And Quinn and Sebastian really carry the load and I just love their 2nd chance romance.
So
Sebastian + Quinn; Quinn + Peyton; Peyton + Will = one big happy family eventually.
"Hmm. Ex-boyfriend and current hook-ups all in one room. I bet that was fun," Hunter said.
"Don't forget the dead body," Caleb said unhelpfully
Sebastian squeezed his eyes shut. Kill count? Why was this happening to him? He'd just wanted to get laid.
We're just waiting for you.
Quinn wasn't sure he'd ever heard a more perfect sentence. Five words that summed them up in a way he could never hoped to describe. They'd all be waiting for each other.
Waiting for this.
“I'm sorry that I didn't trust you back then,” Quinn said softly. “ I'm sorry I didn't believe you, Seb. You hadn't given me any reason to doubt you. I would take it back, but I can't.” His fingers trailed down Sebastian's neck, and Sebastian wished that it didn't feel so good, wished that he didn't crave it so much. “I'm sorry that you were alone so long, and that I wasn't there to show you that you had someone to lean on.”
“I have people to lean on,” Sebastian said stiffly.
Quinn's smile was sad, and Sebastian refused to feel guilty. “
Then I'm sorry that I'm not one of them.
October 4, 2023
An Unexpected (and pleasant) Surprise
This went way better than I expected. These 4 actually had a connection. Usually these poly books totally focus on the sexy times and neglect every other thing but I think the author did a good job of bridging that gap.
Sure, the Sexy times were quite solid but you can tell the emotional connections were building up nicely as well.. Will is currently my favourite but the others are great as well.
This ends a bit abruptly like the blurb says so make sure you have Book 2 on hand…
On to the next!
This went way better than I expected. These 4 actually had a connection. Usually these poly books totally focus on the sexy times and neglect every other thing but I think the author did a good job of bridging that gap.
Sure, the Sexy times were quite solid but you can tell the emotional connections were building up nicely as well.. Will is currently my favourite but the others are great as well.
This ends a bit abruptly like the blurb says so make sure you have Book 2 on hand…
On to the next!
November 13, 2022
Holy hotness. Loved loved loved this. Peyton and Will went out one night and met Sebastian. What Peyton and Will didn’t know was that Quinn and Sebastian were together many years before. This is a hot, steamy read, with some action as they try to see who is targeting Sebastien. I am soooooo looking forward to reading book 2. I highly recommend - you will not be disappointed.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
I received a copy of this book for my review.
November 30, 2022
Over all I liked the story and relationship development. All four men stood strong in their own right. There was some tension from past relationship history which I thought gave some depth counteracting the amount of sex scenes. I don’t mind sex in books. But it sort of felt a little too much like a porn show to begin with. But as the men became closer. There were more feelings involved.
The mystery was interesting and Hunter … it seems he might have a pivotal role in one of the main characters life and decisions that maybe not all will be on board with.
The side characters were allso well thought out and added strength to the story line.
I’m interested to see how these men will work through their differences and grow stronger together emotionally.
The mystery was interesting and Hunter … it seems he might have a pivotal role in one of the main characters life and decisions that maybe not all will be on board with.
The side characters were allso well thought out and added strength to the story line.
I’m interested to see how these men will work through their differences and grow stronger together emotionally.
February 19, 2025
Love it when I discover a new good series involving detective/crime romance!! And this time MMMM? I was so excited and the book did not disappoint! Was it at certain points a bit quick plot wise? Maybe but the developments were imo well thought out and I loved the characters! I can’t wait to read the next instalment and other books in this universe. Once comment I have tho is…. THAT ENDING?? Way too abrupt it’s not even a cliffhanger AHAHA just as if the author thought “ok we covered all the important stuff let’s stop here” 😂 but fineeee I’ll just start in book 2 right away (so maybe it was a tactic, ending like that 🤣🤣)
July 27, 2023
Fun action paced story
This story just grabs you from the start and doesn't stop until you are done and asking for more. The lives are so intertwined its amazing the gates didn't break before the events of this book. The core foursome has their issues from the past that is making it somewhat hard for something real to start but once it does the passion is intense! The book is not just about the fun times but their is a great storyline inclided as well. Great read looking forward to book 2.
This story just grabs you from the start and doesn't stop until you are done and asking for more. The lives are so intertwined its amazing the gates didn't break before the events of this book. The core foursome has their issues from the past that is making it somewhat hard for something real to start but once it does the passion is intense! The book is not just about the fun times but their is a great storyline inclided as well. Great read looking forward to book 2.
November 25, 2022
Catalyst was an excellent MMMM romance, I’m excited to see where this series is going. Will and Peyton are best friends with benefits. Everyone thinks they’re together; they even live together. They pick up Sebastian at a club. They take him home, hot, hot, hot! A dead body is then discovered, and Quinn is called in and he has a past with Seb! The chemistry between these four was explosive, hot and steamy, spicy! The story hooked me from the first page and didn’t let me go. Overall, a fantastic read! Well written with pacing that leaves me wanting more!
November 16, 2022
Will, a cop, living with and hooking up with Peyton. They had been together for years then Sebastian a defense lawyer enters their lives. Peyton and Will allowed Sebastian to be the only other person either had slept with. Quinn, detective, sexiest man Peyton had ever known. A misunderstanding keeping them apart for years. Sebastian and Quinn have a history. Quinn greatly enjoys marking Peyton over the marks that Sebastian left. Quinn, Peyton, and Will, yes, that happened too. Confused? Me too. All the different pairings, threesomes, and the foursome was jaw dropping. I definitely liked them in all and any form.
Suspense, mystery, and sufficient hotness to curl this readers hair. Characters with enough backstory to keep them intriguing, entertaining and yet left a few questions for future stories.
Well written and thoroughly enjoyable.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Suspense, mystery, and sufficient hotness to curl this readers hair. Characters with enough backstory to keep them intriguing, entertaining and yet left a few questions for future stories.
Well written and thoroughly enjoyable.
Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
November 29, 2022
Ahhhhh, I loved this so much! The mystery/crime aspect and all the tangled/overlapping relationships and all the side characters (can't wait til they all get their own stories).
This ends in a HFN because even though the crime is sorta solved in the end, their relationship still needed a lot of growing and expanding on, even though the four of them seem to settle quite well for now. Seems they are all still living separately, so I can't wait for book 2 to expand on how Will, Peyton, Quinn, and Sebastian will navigate this new poly relationship they're all in.
I loved that they had past chemistry and still lingering feelings towards each other within the 4 of them. This was felt really well through the writing, and the sex scenes were scorchinggggg and very much plenty. I loved that it was balanced really well with the plot and crime/mystery in the background and there were wholesome moments with family and with the dog too, ughhh just perfect.
I loved that we saw cameos of some characters from Aurora's old series "Thicker than Blood" and I can't wait to reread their newly developed stories later. So excited for everything in this series, it was perfect!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by the author.
This ends in a HFN because even though the crime is sorta solved in the end, their relationship still needed a lot of growing and expanding on, even though the four of them seem to settle quite well for now. Seems they are all still living separately, so I can't wait for book 2 to expand on how Will, Peyton, Quinn, and Sebastian will navigate this new poly relationship they're all in.
I loved that they had past chemistry and still lingering feelings towards each other within the 4 of them. This was felt really well through the writing, and the sex scenes were scorchinggggg and very much plenty. I loved that it was balanced really well with the plot and crime/mystery in the background and there were wholesome moments with family and with the dog too, ughhh just perfect.
I loved that we saw cameos of some characters from Aurora's old series "Thicker than Blood" and I can't wait to reread their newly developed stories later. So excited for everything in this series, it was perfect!
I received an ARC of this book and this is my honest review. All opinions are my own and not influenced by the author.
November 18, 2022
All aspects of this book work seamlessly together and I was hooked from the beginning. We have one established couple and two other characters who know them and each other. They start to come together as a threesome first, but a dead body brings them all together and they work through the complications of that, their careers and how they fit together and becoming a quad as the story progresses. There are dangerous characters, shady characters working for bad guys and mysterious groups and it's clear that these four are never going to have a calm, peaceful life but they'll have each other.
November 15, 2022
There are not enough words to describe how much I loved this book. From the blurb alone I was like a moth to a flame and that carried through to the last page of the book. The chemistry between the characters is off the charts. The story is awesome. It is the perfect balance of mystery, suspense, and steam....neither part takes something away from the other. All of that makes this book not only a 5 star read but also a 5 flame read as well. I cannot wait for book 2. Is it 2023 yet?
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
I received an advance copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving my review.
Read
September 8, 2025I’m grateful to my Mum for nurturing this gift of reading books in me, in the mental and emotional state I’m in, I don’t know how else I’d cope if I couldn’t get lost in these worlds.
Who did we meet or who was explicitly mentioned for me to note:
Will’s team
Will McMahon - with Peyton, 28 Tactical Units Operations Officer, 6ft6 - MC
Roy - sniper
Diego
Cain - medic
Jeremy - Jelly
Hamish- Peanut Butter
Seb’s people
Sebastian Devlin - Defence lawyer, friends with Caleb, dark blue eyes - MC
Caleb - friend, workmate
Monica - PA
The Sinclair
Peyton Sinclair - who wants Quinn, twin Parker, brother Riley
Sinclair brothers- Danny, Kellan and Lucas, father is Superintendent Simon Sinclair
Quinn’s people
Detective Quinn Lewis Hughes - 32
Grady - partner
Gideon
Ange
Greer
Henry
Ethel - grandmother
I actually didn’t expect this to be as steamy as it was, and for the first I truly understood what writing in 3rd person is and why some readers don’t like to read it.
There are many unknowns especially from the past and it’s giving me an itch but I am intrigued and will continue on. No typos
Who did we meet or who was explicitly mentioned for me to note:
Will’s team
Will McMahon - with Peyton, 28 Tactical Units Operations Officer, 6ft6 - MC
Roy - sniper
Diego
Cain - medic
Jeremy - Jelly
Hamish- Peanut Butter
Seb’s people
Sebastian Devlin - Defence lawyer, friends with Caleb, dark blue eyes - MC
Caleb - friend, workmate
Monica - PA
The Sinclair
Peyton Sinclair - who wants Quinn, twin Parker, brother Riley
Sinclair brothers- Danny, Kellan and Lucas, father is Superintendent Simon Sinclair
Quinn’s people
Detective Quinn Lewis Hughes - 32
Grady - partner
Gideon
Ange
Greer
Henry
Ethel - grandmother
I actually didn’t expect this to be as steamy as it was, and for the first I truly understood what writing in 3rd person is and why some readers don’t like to read it.
There are many unknowns especially from the past and it’s giving me an itch but I am intrigued and will continue on. No typos
November 23, 2022
This is how you write poly romance.
What a glorious read. This whole... thing, just worked for me and it felt so much fun after the more mediocre/"nice enough" reads I had lately. There's romance, enough life outside of the romance stuff to keep the story fresh and dynamic and just a well-made connections between the main characters (too many books just slip into a sort of lust or fated thing to make such a relationship "real" or possible). And I just adored the characters.
A series worth watching. Well, reading. Recommend to all fans of a solidly built romance that is both intriguing and romantically satisfying.
What a glorious read. This whole... thing, just worked for me and it felt so much fun after the more mediocre/"nice enough" reads I had lately. There's romance, enough life outside of the romance stuff to keep the story fresh and dynamic and just a well-made connections between the main characters (too many books just slip into a sort of lust or fated thing to make such a relationship "real" or possible). And I just adored the characters.
A series worth watching. Well, reading. Recommend to all fans of a solidly built romance that is both intriguing and romantically satisfying.
March 9, 2025
4.25 stars!
As a hockey enjoyer, reading something with a Quinn Hughes in it is so weird and appalling but kinda hilarious. It isn't that uncommon I guess but of all names? I can't just not laugh 😭
But anyways, I liked it. Will has my fav personality out of all of them. I can't write anything properly rn but it was a good read.
As a hockey enjoyer, reading something with a Quinn Hughes in it is so weird and appalling but kinda hilarious. It isn't that uncommon I guess but of all names? I can't just not laugh 😭
But anyways, I liked it. Will has my fav personality out of all of them. I can't write anything properly rn but it was a good read.
August 20, 2024
3.75 stars. This book felt refreshing to me, not only in regards to the polyamory, but also the roles each of the main characters has. If anything, I'd wished I had more descriptions of each of them sooner in the book. Overall, I actually think that this book could have benefited from more writing. It felt that so much got condensed but the characters are all fascinating enough and the plot interesting that I wanted to be able to spend more time with each of them and really dig down deep. Especially when it came to each of the characters families, I really appreciated that we got a chance to see them with their extended circle of friends and family. I really didn't feel like this was a story of only four people, but that they were part of a larger world, which makes them all incredibly important. It's found family romance at it's finest! Overall, this was an enjoyable read and I'll likely read the next book at some point too.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Sure!
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Each of the MMCs is distinct, which I do absolutely love. The fact that all of them have hyper-protective jobs: cop, ex spec-ops, defense lawyer, and tactical operations unit, was really fun! They all have a range of ages as well, and I truly enjoyed that you definitely got a sense about what made each of them tick. It's not hard to have a favorite, but impossible for that favorite to not constantly be changing. I instantly enjoyed all of them and honestly, I loved how the first trio met up. The idea of sh*t happening because they were all thinking with their tiny heads is so classic.
PLOT: A murder mystery at it's finest. Why are dead bodies appearing where they are? Who is the target? Why? What exactly is going on? The irony as well that all of them somehow seem to have less than six degrees of separation so that even though they're in Sydney, everyone knows everyone else in their line of work makes for some almost slapstick comedy that I thoroughly enjoyed. The only thing I do wish is that they were all given a little more vulnerability, especially at the very end. Sure, they have a lot of protective talents, but the stakes won't seem as high if everyone is easily able to escape basically unscathed.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
2/5: low-medium. I think it could go either way. I was emotionally invested in the characters, but again, I felt so much was being packed into so little time that I wasn't given the chance to dive as deeply into the world as I wanted to. But it is still an enjoyable, sexy read.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
75%. My usual main qualm. I wish the climactic event had had a more... lasting impact. And that we got a chance to really sit in that moment. The characters weren't given a chance to truly grow because the finale seemed too easy in light of the build up. But everything was wrapped up well enough for the next book and I wasn't left frustrated. So that's good.
Knowing what I know now about this book, would I still read it if I went back in time?
Sure!
See below for the four criteria I use to decide whether and when to read a book
CHARACTERS: Each of the MMCs is distinct, which I do absolutely love. The fact that all of them have hyper-protective jobs: cop, ex spec-ops, defense lawyer, and tactical operations unit, was really fun! They all have a range of ages as well, and I truly enjoyed that you definitely got a sense about what made each of them tick. It's not hard to have a favorite, but impossible for that favorite to not constantly be changing. I instantly enjoyed all of them and honestly, I loved how the first trio met up. The idea of sh*t happening because they were all thinking with their tiny heads is so classic.
PLOT: A murder mystery at it's finest. Why are dead bodies appearing where they are? Who is the target? Why? What exactly is going on? The irony as well that all of them somehow seem to have less than six degrees of separation so that even though they're in Sydney, everyone knows everyone else in their line of work makes for some almost slapstick comedy that I thoroughly enjoyed. The only thing I do wish is that they were all given a little more vulnerability, especially at the very end. Sure, they have a lot of protective talents, but the stakes won't seem as high if everyone is easily able to escape basically unscathed.
EMOTIONAL INTENSITY: There is no good/bad here. Sometimes I just want a low-investment entertainment read whereas other times a high-stakes 'I need a therapist to recover' is what I need.
2/5: low-medium. I think it could go either way. I was emotionally invested in the characters, but again, I felt so much was being packed into so little time that I wasn't given the chance to dive as deeply into the world as I wanted to. But it is still an enjoyable, sexy read.
CATHARTIC FULFILLMENT: Is the emotional journey worth it? Do I finish this book feeling that I've crested the wave of the climactic moment and everything has been settled, leaving me settled and fulfilled?
75%. My usual main qualm. I wish the climactic event had had a more... lasting impact. And that we got a chance to really sit in that moment. The characters weren't given a chance to truly grow because the finale seemed too easy in light of the build up. But everything was wrapped up well enough for the next book and I wasn't left frustrated. So that's good.
July 20, 2023
I have had my eye on this story for quite some time but was unable to purchase it, thankfully someone sent it to me! And I am so very happy I was able to read this incredible story, I was surprised by how much I fell in love with these adorable, amusing, and slightly infuriating characters.
Will and Peyton are best friends, and they have had a friends with benefits situation going on between them for years. But all Peyton wants, or what he thinks he wants, is for Quinn to want him back. Little does he know that his feelings are very much reciprocated, but due to an assumption he's not going to act on them. Then Sebastian enters the picture as a one night stand, that turns into more than just a hookup. But while all the men are trying to figure out what they mean to each other, and how they're going to work together, there's someone out there who's trying to harm Sebastian. As the threats escalate will these men be alive long enough to figure out what they feel for one another?
I.. almost have no words, which isn't really conducive when it comes to writing a review. But I'm sure I'll find some words to describe this impeccable book!
Firstly the plot! *Chef's kiss* The plot line was done so well, the mystery kept building and kept getting more interesting instead of feeling out of place, or rushed. The more things that happened to these men the more it made you try to guess what was going to occur next, but Aurora wrote it in a way that leaves you guessing and eager for more.
Now.. the characters!! Fantastic! That about sums it up, these characters were truly incredible. Each one has their own personality, and each one adds something different to the overall story. Quinn is the level-headed one, Sebastian is the serious and aloof one, Peyton is the tactical and playful one, and Will is the loveable goofball. These men at first glance, or rather, first introduction, might not all work together, but they do! Even with these men getting thrust into a case they weren't prepared for, they still try to make their new fledgling relationship work. Will was definitely my favorite character, when he gets drunk had me laughing out loud.
I'm so excited for the next book, and I'm really happy to be able to get more of these characters stories.
Will and Peyton are best friends, and they have had a friends with benefits situation going on between them for years. But all Peyton wants, or what he thinks he wants, is for Quinn to want him back. Little does he know that his feelings are very much reciprocated, but due to an assumption he's not going to act on them. Then Sebastian enters the picture as a one night stand, that turns into more than just a hookup. But while all the men are trying to figure out what they mean to each other, and how they're going to work together, there's someone out there who's trying to harm Sebastian. As the threats escalate will these men be alive long enough to figure out what they feel for one another?
I.. almost have no words, which isn't really conducive when it comes to writing a review. But I'm sure I'll find some words to describe this impeccable book!
Firstly the plot! *Chef's kiss* The plot line was done so well, the mystery kept building and kept getting more interesting instead of feeling out of place, or rushed. The more things that happened to these men the more it made you try to guess what was going to occur next, but Aurora wrote it in a way that leaves you guessing and eager for more.
Now.. the characters!! Fantastic! That about sums it up, these characters were truly incredible. Each one has their own personality, and each one adds something different to the overall story. Quinn is the level-headed one, Sebastian is the serious and aloof one, Peyton is the tactical and playful one, and Will is the loveable goofball. These men at first glance, or rather, first introduction, might not all work together, but they do! Even with these men getting thrust into a case they weren't prepared for, they still try to make their new fledgling relationship work. Will was definitely my favorite character, when he gets drunk had me laughing out loud.
I'm so excited for the next book, and I'm really happy to be able to get more of these characters stories.
September 9, 2024
I must admit I'm not a fan of poly romances, but I loved Aurora's book "Third time lucky" so much, (it's actually one of my favourite books of all times), so I decided to give this series a try. Well, let me tell you that I really enjoyed and loved it.
The plot is entertaining and it hooked me from the beginning. The book starts off in a very enticing way and once all the MCs got involved in the mystery and met each other I just couldn't stop reading. There is a murder and best friends, hot policemen, an attractive lawyer and an endearing soldier. When they all get together not only lead to sexy times but to a beautiful romance too.
There were so many feelings in this story and some wonderful tropes, so I think it's a book that anyone can enjoy, even if you are not into poly romances (like me, although that seems to be something left in the past now). The MCs were perfectly outlined and their personalities made them easy to relate to as they were so different to each other.
I loved them all, but I must say that I got a weak spot for Will. He is this huge, sweet guy that is just happy to be around the people he cares about. I also liked Quinn, as he was the older and the one to keep the rest in line.
Like I said, I truly enjoyed this book and will read the other two of the series. Aurora has a way to create characters that touch the reader's heart in a way that makes you want to read whatever she writes. I can't wait to start the second book of this series and find out who the fifth guy in this poly relationship will be.
The plot is entertaining and it hooked me from the beginning. The book starts off in a very enticing way and once all the MCs got involved in the mystery and met each other I just couldn't stop reading. There is a murder and best friends, hot policemen, an attractive lawyer and an endearing soldier. When they all get together not only lead to sexy times but to a beautiful romance too.
There were so many feelings in this story and some wonderful tropes, so I think it's a book that anyone can enjoy, even if you are not into poly romances (like me, although that seems to be something left in the past now). The MCs were perfectly outlined and their personalities made them easy to relate to as they were so different to each other.
I loved them all, but I must say that I got a weak spot for Will. He is this huge, sweet guy that is just happy to be around the people he cares about. I also liked Quinn, as he was the older and the one to keep the rest in line.
Like I said, I truly enjoyed this book and will read the other two of the series. Aurora has a way to create characters that touch the reader's heart in a way that makes you want to read whatever she writes. I can't wait to start the second book of this series and find out who the fifth guy in this poly relationship will be.
November 23, 2022
I loved this book so much! There's so much packed into it.
Will and Peyton are best friends who have been sleeping together for years. They also live together, making it seem to everyone around them that they're a couple. They're not, at least not in their minds. They are the definition of idiots in love. Cue Sebastian.
Seb is a defense lawyer whom Will and Peyton pick up in a club one night. What happens next is a night of hot passion and the kick-off to the main plot when a dead body turns up in the kitchen.
Quinn is called in to discover what happened and to the surprise of Will and Peyton, he and Seb have a past. Not only that, but the UNST between Quinn and Peyton is real as well.
With the four of them on page together things are combustible. All four men are very different from one another and shouldn't work, but they do. There's a balance to these four men. They all bring something different out of each other. Which is what you want, especially when you're writing polyamory. Each relationship gives and takes something different and you see that on page. It's not an easy thing to do, especially in one book, but this author managed it and I cannot wait to see where they go from here because it promises to be fun. Are things perfect? No, but they don't need to be. They're just figuring things out and there's a lot they have to work through, especially Quinn and Seb who have a history neither is ready to divulge yet, but they're building something together, all of them, that promises to be amazing.
The suspense elements of this book was a nice backdrop to the new relationship. Trying to build something with danger around every corner makes things stressful and it was handled wonderfully as they tried to figure out where they stood while trying not to get unalived.
This author is extremely talented and I am loving what she's started with the four of these characters. She's showing she just *gets* polyamory and I cannot wait to see how they evolve when they have more time together in the next books.
Will and Peyton are best friends who have been sleeping together for years. They also live together, making it seem to everyone around them that they're a couple. They're not, at least not in their minds. They are the definition of idiots in love. Cue Sebastian.
Seb is a defense lawyer whom Will and Peyton pick up in a club one night. What happens next is a night of hot passion and the kick-off to the main plot when a dead body turns up in the kitchen.
Quinn is called in to discover what happened and to the surprise of Will and Peyton, he and Seb have a past. Not only that, but the UNST between Quinn and Peyton is real as well.
With the four of them on page together things are combustible. All four men are very different from one another and shouldn't work, but they do. There's a balance to these four men. They all bring something different out of each other. Which is what you want, especially when you're writing polyamory. Each relationship gives and takes something different and you see that on page. It's not an easy thing to do, especially in one book, but this author managed it and I cannot wait to see where they go from here because it promises to be fun. Are things perfect? No, but they don't need to be. They're just figuring things out and there's a lot they have to work through, especially Quinn and Seb who have a history neither is ready to divulge yet, but they're building something together, all of them, that promises to be amazing.
The suspense elements of this book was a nice backdrop to the new relationship. Trying to build something with danger around every corner makes things stressful and it was handled wonderfully as they tried to figure out where they stood while trying not to get unalived.
This author is extremely talented and I am loving what she's started with the four of these characters. She's showing she just *gets* polyamory and I cannot wait to see how they evolve when they have more time together in the next books.
October 15, 2024
I wanted to read a good poly mxm book for quite some time now. And I have to say, i really liked it. In my opinion, it was well written, even the poly scenes. Yes, there were a lot of characters and it could have been overwhelming but I think, the author did a really good job while writing the scenes including multiple characters. I didn't lose track of the characters or who did what to whom.
The story in general wasn't that heavy in plot but quite entertaining. And that was all I asked for, honestly.
Another thing I'd like to point out, is the way of writing the struggles of the characters within the relationship. It was interesting to read more deeply about how the characters feel about the individual love interests and what their worries towards each other were about.
In addition, I liked the characters very much. They're quite a bunch. And it's just wholesome to read about them and their interactions.
The story in general wasn't that heavy in plot but quite entertaining. And that was all I asked for, honestly.
Another thing I'd like to point out, is the way of writing the struggles of the characters within the relationship. It was interesting to read more deeply about how the characters feel about the individual love interests and what their worries towards each other were about.
In addition, I liked the characters very much. They're quite a bunch. And it's just wholesome to read about them and their interactions.
July 23, 2023
So my worry with reading poly books is that all the MCs involved are not equally represented or it's the same personality but with different names. But Aurora Crane wrote this poly romance so beautifully perfect. Will, Sebastian, Peyton, and Quinn are all represented equally, fully developed, and have different quirks/personalities, adding so much to the story. Loved that not only did we get to see them all interacting together but also separately; allowing the reader to know/see all of the different dynamics of the relationship. Also, getting to know and love each MC individually. And love them I did, they were hilarious but also intense in the best way and super sexy. But it wasn't all steam (cause it sure was hot🔥🥵), there was communication (no unnecessary drama), dealing with insecurities, and learning to navigate a new relationship. There was also mystery, action, and suspense keeping me at the edge of my seat.
It does end in a HFN with the subplot being resolved; the relationship is still young with the foundation being built and solidifying. I can't wait to read the next book, Reactant, and see this relationship continue to grow and strengthen ♥️♥️
It does end in a HFN with the subplot being resolved; the relationship is still young with the foundation being built and solidifying. I can't wait to read the next book, Reactant, and see this relationship continue to grow and strengthen ♥️♥️
April 28, 2025
I’ll admit, I was a little hesitant to start Catalyst because it features a four-person relationship — but now I wish I had read it sooner! Aurora Crane did a fantastic job making each character stand out while also showing how their relationships naturally grew and intertwined.
Will, Quinn, Sebastian, and Peyton are all such great characters, each bringing something unique to their partnership. Some of the connections existed before and some developed during the story, which made it feel real and layered instead of overwhelming. I loved how they all worked to be open, honest, and supportive as they navigated the challenges of a relationship that's a little outside the norm.
On top of that, there’s some intense backstory — including complicated histories between Quinn and Seb, and Quinn and Peyton — and someone actively trying to kill Seb! It’s a beautiful, messy, emotional ride, and I enjoyed every second. Will especially adds such a great sense of humor and lightness when things get heavy.
This was a complicated but wonderful story about love, trust, and finding your own path, and now I can’t wait to dive into more books from this author!
Will, Quinn, Sebastian, and Peyton are all such great characters, each bringing something unique to their partnership. Some of the connections existed before and some developed during the story, which made it feel real and layered instead of overwhelming. I loved how they all worked to be open, honest, and supportive as they navigated the challenges of a relationship that's a little outside the norm.
On top of that, there’s some intense backstory — including complicated histories between Quinn and Seb, and Quinn and Peyton — and someone actively trying to kill Seb! It’s a beautiful, messy, emotional ride, and I enjoyed every second. Will especially adds such a great sense of humor and lightness when things get heavy.
This was a complicated but wonderful story about love, trust, and finding your own path, and now I can’t wait to dive into more books from this author!
February 6, 2024
Wow, this book was just wow 🤩
I was pleasantly surprised by how amazing the boom really was.
It starts with a a threesome situation between Peyton, Will & Sebastian. That in itself was super hot & great start of the book 🌶️ & that’s when the plot kicks in. A dead body, & so it begins.
When Quinn comes into the picture, the explosion happens💥 The amount of sexual tension all of the characters have with each other is amazing 🤌🏼
Firstly, Quinn & Sebastian, the estranged the lovers, the one that got away. Quinn & Peyton, instant love but never being able to find each other, Will & Peyton, friends to lovers trope. These are the already established love & then when they find each other, it was just wow 🤩
Poly romances are tricky but the way this book was written was so good, each character have amazing chemistry with each other & the way they navigate is just chef’s kiss.
I highly enjoyed their book & the plot as well, it is definitely interesting to know what will come next & apparently we have one more person joining 😼
I was pleasantly surprised by how amazing the boom really was.
It starts with a a threesome situation between Peyton, Will & Sebastian. That in itself was super hot & great start of the book 🌶️ & that’s when the plot kicks in. A dead body, & so it begins.
When Quinn comes into the picture, the explosion happens💥 The amount of sexual tension all of the characters have with each other is amazing 🤌🏼
Firstly, Quinn & Sebastian, the estranged the lovers, the one that got away. Quinn & Peyton, instant love but never being able to find each other, Will & Peyton, friends to lovers trope. These are the already established love & then when they find each other, it was just wow 🤩
Poly romances are tricky but the way this book was written was so good, each character have amazing chemistry with each other & the way they navigate is just chef’s kiss.
I highly enjoyed their book & the plot as well, it is definitely interesting to know what will come next & apparently we have one more person joining 😼
May 12, 2025
This is a story about the complicated relationships between Quinn, Peyton, Will, and Sebastian. Detective Quinn regrets his past relationship with defense lawyer Sebastian and missing a chance with Peyton, who is now in a comfortable hookup arrangement with fellow police officer Will. Their lives become intertwined when Sebastian finds a dead body in Peyton and Will's kitchen, leading them to call Quinn for help. As Quinn investigates, unresolved tension between him and Peyton resurfaces, while Peyton and Will find themselves drawn to both Quinn and Sebastian. Sebastian, facing danger and unexpected intimacy with Peyton and Will, starts to question his own choices. The summary hints at a potential future involving all four of them.
I enjoyed this story with the mystery of the dead body and various shootings. Add into that the four men and the dynamics between them as well as around them and it was pretty addictive. All the mature content scenes were pretty hot too. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MMMM story with mature content.
I enjoyed this story with the mystery of the dead body and various shootings. Add into that the four men and the dynamics between them as well as around them and it was pretty addictive. All the mature content scenes were pretty hot too. Easy to feel and understand. This was an MMMM story with mature content.
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