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St. Nacho's #4
The Book Of Daniel
He has a choice between doing the right thing or making a fortune. Will a hot firefighter and his growing love of the small town way of life help him decide?Daniel Livingston is finally free. He's come clean about his passionless marriage and moved to St. Nacho's where he can spend time with his brother. Now he's ready to explore the endless sexual buffet being hot and rich and single has to offer.The problem is a firefighter named Cameron Rooney who haunts his every waking thought and half his dreams. No doubt about it. Cam is going to require a level of honesty Dan has never before considered, and in order to achieve that, he will have to turn his life inside out.Will forging a new path could cost him everything or net him the most important score of his life?If you love hot firefighters, cool businessmen, family drama, and watching men find love that will last a lifetime, buy The Book of Daniel today!Editor's This is a rerelease of The Book Of Daniel with no significant changes to the story.
264 pages, Paperback
First published August 30, 2011
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583 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 183 reviews
October 9, 2019
Not the best effort by this author, but a decent read. Wealthy divorced guy has a romance with fireman who rescued him from car crash. Apparently opposites attract!
Some of the things that didn't quite click for me: Hard for me, as the reader, to understand the allure St Nachos has for many of the characters in the book. They are very loyal and protective of their town, like it is a Utopia. The author doesn't really help me get there...just sprinkles the story with a handful of artsy, psychic, odd characters.
I also think they demonized Daniel too much. He had divorced, come out as gay, and been in a really bad car crash. I don't think much of what he did would earn the scorn of the entire cast of characters in the book. For example, his reaction to his brother's wedding announcement was blown way out of proportion, in my opinion.
Also, his whole disappearance for months, and relocation, was a bit over-the-top.
Some of the things that didn't quite click for me: Hard for me, as the reader, to understand the allure St Nachos has for many of the characters in the book. They are very loyal and protective of their town, like it is a Utopia. The author doesn't really help me get there...just sprinkles the story with a handful of artsy, psychic, odd characters.
I also think they demonized Daniel too much. He had divorced, come out as gay, and been in a really bad car crash. I don't think much of what he did would earn the scorn of the entire cast of characters in the book. For example, his reaction to his brother's wedding announcement was blown way out of proportion, in my opinion.
Also, his whole disappearance for months, and relocation, was a bit over-the-top.
September 26, 2011
This review was originally written for The Romance Reviews and can also be found there.
Most people, when they see the name of the author of this book won't think twice before buying it. They expect great writing, wonderful characters, emotional situations and funny anecdotes, and being a fan, I can say that in my opinion that is usually what people get. More so with Z.A. Maxfield's older work, but the style is still there and certainly our expectations are as well.
St. Nacho's is a very popular series with some wonderful characters and almost palpable magic to it. It has won over many and is gaining fans daily, so it comes as no surprise that I jumped in at the opportunity to read THE BOOK OF DANIEL.
Fourth book in the series is about Daniel, Jake's brother, who we got to see in the previous book. He is a man with a past who has made many sacrifices and thinking it was finally his time to live, he simply let loose. As a consequence to an accident, his hand was badly injured and while physically it is somewhat healing, emotional scars are very deep, and something Dan just doesn't want to face. A bad marriage behind him and optimistic future ahead make it easy to stay awhile in St. Nacho with his brother while taking some time to heal.
His match in this book is Cam, a firefighter who is also known as a player and doesn't shy from male company. The two of them don't hide the mutual dislike until one tragic event changes the way they see each other.
I enjoyed the first maybe half of the book. It had that dose of familiarity and I liked reading about the characters from previous books. But at some point I had to wonder when Dan and Cam would come into their own. The original vibe I got from Dan was that he was somewhat malicious, taught by the harshness of his life and all the things he had to give up so that other people would be happy. But despite that, it was obvious that he was trying. He was giving himself another chance at life while trying to live up to the expectations of others.
It didn't take me long to love him, but it took me even less to hate just about everyone else. A town that I found very accepting and charming in all previous books, turned into something belonging to an alternate reality movie with twisted personalities and upside down vibes. Everyone was so set against Daniel it was painful to read and to make it even more tragic, all that animosity was completely uncalled for. Every little infraction from his part was met with extremely harsh words and instant distance, something he really didn't deserve. For me, it was so harsh that by the time I reached the end, I wanted a happier place for him than St Nacho's.
The romance part of this story was extremely unsatisfying. The sudden connection between Cam and Dan wasn't really explained let alone felt, and that basically set the tone for the rest of the book. They danced around each other without any shown dedication, especially from Cam's part. Every time Dan would bare his soul in truly remarkable and affectionate words, Cam would pull back or hurt him terribly. Everything seemed more important than Dan's feelings and for me this book almost felt like confessions of a victim who didn't even realize he was abused. Consistent with their relationship, the bit of sex they had was almost clinical with just a whisper of hot.
With the last third of the book, I just got angry. All the interesting and, in my opinion, important parts got glazed over or completely skipped. It's never fun when you are led into a conflict or a resolution of a big issue only to get barely a few sentences to satisfy you. In addition to that, a lot of Dan's actions didn't sit well with me, because they were either uncharacteristic for him or they simply didn't make sense.
All of that said, I would still suggest the fans to read this book. It is a continuation to a wonderful series and even if you don't end up liking it, you will probably feel as if you've missed out by skipping it. With this last line, I can't really say anything other than – tastes are different – what bothered me might make this book the best one for you in the St. Nacho's series.
Most people, when they see the name of the author of this book won't think twice before buying it. They expect great writing, wonderful characters, emotional situations and funny anecdotes, and being a fan, I can say that in my opinion that is usually what people get. More so with Z.A. Maxfield's older work, but the style is still there and certainly our expectations are as well.
St. Nacho's is a very popular series with some wonderful characters and almost palpable magic to it. It has won over many and is gaining fans daily, so it comes as no surprise that I jumped in at the opportunity to read THE BOOK OF DANIEL.
Fourth book in the series is about Daniel, Jake's brother, who we got to see in the previous book. He is a man with a past who has made many sacrifices and thinking it was finally his time to live, he simply let loose. As a consequence to an accident, his hand was badly injured and while physically it is somewhat healing, emotional scars are very deep, and something Dan just doesn't want to face. A bad marriage behind him and optimistic future ahead make it easy to stay awhile in St. Nacho with his brother while taking some time to heal.
His match in this book is Cam, a firefighter who is also known as a player and doesn't shy from male company. The two of them don't hide the mutual dislike until one tragic event changes the way they see each other.
I enjoyed the first maybe half of the book. It had that dose of familiarity and I liked reading about the characters from previous books. But at some point I had to wonder when Dan and Cam would come into their own. The original vibe I got from Dan was that he was somewhat malicious, taught by the harshness of his life and all the things he had to give up so that other people would be happy. But despite that, it was obvious that he was trying. He was giving himself another chance at life while trying to live up to the expectations of others.
It didn't take me long to love him, but it took me even less to hate just about everyone else. A town that I found very accepting and charming in all previous books, turned into something belonging to an alternate reality movie with twisted personalities and upside down vibes. Everyone was so set against Daniel it was painful to read and to make it even more tragic, all that animosity was completely uncalled for. Every little infraction from his part was met with extremely harsh words and instant distance, something he really didn't deserve. For me, it was so harsh that by the time I reached the end, I wanted a happier place for him than St Nacho's.
The romance part of this story was extremely unsatisfying. The sudden connection between Cam and Dan wasn't really explained let alone felt, and that basically set the tone for the rest of the book. They danced around each other without any shown dedication, especially from Cam's part. Every time Dan would bare his soul in truly remarkable and affectionate words, Cam would pull back or hurt him terribly. Everything seemed more important than Dan's feelings and for me this book almost felt like confessions of a victim who didn't even realize he was abused. Consistent with their relationship, the bit of sex they had was almost clinical with just a whisper of hot.
With the last third of the book, I just got angry. All the interesting and, in my opinion, important parts got glazed over or completely skipped. It's never fun when you are led into a conflict or a resolution of a big issue only to get barely a few sentences to satisfy you. In addition to that, a lot of Dan's actions didn't sit well with me, because they were either uncharacteristic for him or they simply didn't make sense.
All of that said, I would still suggest the fans to read this book. It is a continuation to a wonderful series and even if you don't end up liking it, you will probably feel as if you've missed out by skipping it. With this last line, I can't really say anything other than – tastes are different – what bothered me might make this book the best one for you in the St. Nacho's series.
November 1, 2011
While I like the St. Nacho’s series a lot, I’m not really happy with the turn it’s taken. Of course that could just be me but this book felt disjointed, rush, and totally scattered. There wasn’t one consistent theme running throughout the book and the characters seemed to change randomly with whatever emotion they needed to express. I quite liked Daniel and Cam from the previous book but I couldn’t stand either one of them in Book of Daniel. They’re selfish, cruel, totally unforgiving, and would change at the drop of a hat. The book feels like it didn’t know exactly what direction to go but threw a few themes and concepts to see what sticks.
This time around is Jake’s brother Daniel, who was in a horrific car accident at the end of the last book. Now he and firefighter Cam are circling around each other, but not really. Daniel starts the book by making some snarky comments to Cam while trying to hide his attraction. Cam for his part calls Daniel a bunch of names and basically says he’s the scum of the earth. But that tension doesn’t really go anywhere as soon enough Daniel and Cam get together sexually. Cam waivers back and forth several times, never giving Daniel a break and assuming the worst about him each time. Daniel for his part accepts and even admits he’s a horrible person each and every time. Throw in some random side plots about Dan’s ex-wife and his father with a super rushed, everything tied up ending and that’s it.
Of course that’s a huge simplification but that’s how disjointed and random this offering feels. First the various subplots don’t meld together in any meaningful way. There is Jake and JT’s wedding that Dan is sketchy about but he comes around instantly, after he’s thoroughly lashed by everyone. There is the ex-wife subplot, which I truly hated on every level. She’s portrayed as a huge bitch in the beginning then comes around entirely to save Dan and be a figure of almost angelic niceness. It makes no sense except it helps create a temporary tension point that I didn’t understand and leave a nice ending for Dan. The father issues again were perplexing. They had some great potential to get into a real issue and something Dan could use to grow and change but it felt too quick, too wrapped up and only there to provide yet another time when Cam could call Dan names, run away and then come right back after Dan grovels.
This leads me to the problem with characterization. It isn’t consistent nor does it make much sense. Cam alternates between complacent acceptance of Dan to assuming the worst and running away. Yet I guess the sex is too good because Cam always comes back. It kind of makes no sense that Cam would be so disconnected and willing to think the worst of Dan. Dan practically and verbally lays his heart out constantly to Cam, yet that seems to have no affect. I think the story was trying to show that since Dan lies so easily it’s his actions not his words that matter but no one, not even his brother Jake, gives him any credit for anything. He can’t even do something nice without people jumping on him, which got old pretty quickly.
Jake and Dan seem to alternate as well since Dan constantly talks himself down but all of his horrible behavior must have happened in his life prior to the book. In this story, Dan is a near saint always working hard to prove himself and any small misstep is leapt upon and crucified. I like the idea of Dan being a not good person who is reformed and now worthy of love but I never got the impression he was a horrible person, only that he and everyone else thought so. Additionally Jake comes across as judgmental, cruel, and often annoying. This is a change from his character in the first book and I couldn’t understand his actions towards Dan. They didn’t seem like those of a loving brother at all.
The writing is decent and Maxfield knows how to bring St. Nacho’s to life. I really liked that someone didn’t fit there for once and made it work. There are a few editing mistakes of switched names but otherwise mostly clean. Unfortunately while the writing is good, the story jumps around without enough explanations to really work. Dan’s four months away make no sense nor does his sudden return. The back and forth and leaps in time seem arbitrary and so the story never settled into a grove that makes you want to read, at least for me. Having said that I’ll still buy and read whatever Maxfield writes so this one will likely just be the one miss in a solid series.
This time around is Jake’s brother Daniel, who was in a horrific car accident at the end of the last book. Now he and firefighter Cam are circling around each other, but not really. Daniel starts the book by making some snarky comments to Cam while trying to hide his attraction. Cam for his part calls Daniel a bunch of names and basically says he’s the scum of the earth. But that tension doesn’t really go anywhere as soon enough Daniel and Cam get together sexually. Cam waivers back and forth several times, never giving Daniel a break and assuming the worst about him each time. Daniel for his part accepts and even admits he’s a horrible person each and every time. Throw in some random side plots about Dan’s ex-wife and his father with a super rushed, everything tied up ending and that’s it.
Of course that’s a huge simplification but that’s how disjointed and random this offering feels. First the various subplots don’t meld together in any meaningful way. There is Jake and JT’s wedding that Dan is sketchy about but he comes around instantly, after he’s thoroughly lashed by everyone. There is the ex-wife subplot, which I truly hated on every level. She’s portrayed as a huge bitch in the beginning then comes around entirely to save Dan and be a figure of almost angelic niceness. It makes no sense except it helps create a temporary tension point that I didn’t understand and leave a nice ending for Dan. The father issues again were perplexing. They had some great potential to get into a real issue and something Dan could use to grow and change but it felt too quick, too wrapped up and only there to provide yet another time when Cam could call Dan names, run away and then come right back after Dan grovels.
This leads me to the problem with characterization. It isn’t consistent nor does it make much sense. Cam alternates between complacent acceptance of Dan to assuming the worst and running away. Yet I guess the sex is too good because Cam always comes back. It kind of makes no sense that Cam would be so disconnected and willing to think the worst of Dan. Dan practically and verbally lays his heart out constantly to Cam, yet that seems to have no affect. I think the story was trying to show that since Dan lies so easily it’s his actions not his words that matter but no one, not even his brother Jake, gives him any credit for anything. He can’t even do something nice without people jumping on him, which got old pretty quickly.
Jake and Dan seem to alternate as well since Dan constantly talks himself down but all of his horrible behavior must have happened in his life prior to the book. In this story, Dan is a near saint always working hard to prove himself and any small misstep is leapt upon and crucified. I like the idea of Dan being a not good person who is reformed and now worthy of love but I never got the impression he was a horrible person, only that he and everyone else thought so. Additionally Jake comes across as judgmental, cruel, and often annoying. This is a change from his character in the first book and I couldn’t understand his actions towards Dan. They didn’t seem like those of a loving brother at all.
The writing is decent and Maxfield knows how to bring St. Nacho’s to life. I really liked that someone didn’t fit there for once and made it work. There are a few editing mistakes of switched names but otherwise mostly clean. Unfortunately while the writing is good, the story jumps around without enough explanations to really work. Dan’s four months away make no sense nor does his sudden return. The back and forth and leaps in time seem arbitrary and so the story never settled into a grove that makes you want to read, at least for me. Having said that I’ll still buy and read whatever Maxfield writes so this one will likely just be the one miss in a solid series.
November 29, 2011
^^SOMETIMES DANIEL NEEDS TO KEEP HIS BOOK CLOSED!^^
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
3.5
This was one of my least favourite ZAM book ever, and it’s a part of one my fave series. This book had two of my favourite characters from the previous book, like two complete idiots. They were indecisive, contradictory, and spoiled children. I could not wrap my mind around it, and when they both acted like douches to each other, with a few words all would go back to normal.
If you have no clue about the St Nachos series, I absolutely recommend that you get to know this little town. The characters are quirky, and the food sounds awesmazing (I was constantly hungry reading this book). This series is the epitome of what ZAM does best. Though I did have my issues with this story in particular, the series is not to be missed. Cam and Daniel had me a drooling from the previous book, and I was impatiently waiting for their story. I knew it was gonna be hot, and about a man healing and finding love. We got all that, but we also got shallow Cam and Daniel with their multiple personalities.
Daniel the product of a bad home life has built his way up to owning his own company and having money. He lives to protect his little brother, but over the years, he has forgotten about others in order to make a disastrous marriage work. The marriage is over and Daniel has decided to be true to himself and come out to the world. Now he’s man whoring himself around town, and he’s hardly a good person. He lies, and is unable to find happiness in anything. A car wreck has left him without the use of one of his hands, and his pity party is strong. In comes Cam the hot fire fighter with the heart of gold, who can do and say no wrong (gimme a break). Their relationship was never the best, but a friendly relationship begins that leads to more.
The inconsistencies in this book is strong, I just do not understand what happened to my Cam and Daniel. At times, I really liked them, and at most, I wanted to slap them in the head. Daniel facing his issues was a good thing, but everyone around him kept making him the bad person, as if he was this horrible guy. Honestly, I have yet to see this horrible person, sketchy and unsure yes, but horrible? Not even, close. His life has shaped him and he has every right to be wary. He is not a perfect person, and I sorta hated how they expected so much from him.
The sex between Daniel and Cam is desert storm hot, but the relationship part is a great big pot of 'you have got to be fecking kidding me'. They both have no idea what they want. One minute its not working but the next love is blooming like roses in a freaking garden. I yelled a few times 'just make up your mind already', and just when you think all is well, either Cam or Dan pulls a douche bag move. I had high hopes for them, though not completely disappointed I am also less then impressed.
Overall, I really enjoyed going back to St.Nacho’s and hearing about everyone from previous books. I liked many elements of the story (laughed my ass off a few times), but disappointed in the characters. Even though I got my HEA, I am still waiting for Daniel to bolt. In the upside, this might be the dirtiest ZA book ever; I was like “WHAT”, some very unexpected hotness. My final thoughts are that this series is not to be missed, and though it seems as if I am just hating, I honestly liked the book just wondering what the hell happened to the characters.
More of my reviews and ramblings at PANTS OFF REVIEWS
3.5
This was one of my least favourite ZAM book ever, and it’s a part of one my fave series. This book had two of my favourite characters from the previous book, like two complete idiots. They were indecisive, contradictory, and spoiled children. I could not wrap my mind around it, and when they both acted like douches to each other, with a few words all would go back to normal.
If you have no clue about the St Nachos series, I absolutely recommend that you get to know this little town. The characters are quirky, and the food sounds awesmazing (I was constantly hungry reading this book). This series is the epitome of what ZAM does best. Though I did have my issues with this story in particular, the series is not to be missed. Cam and Daniel had me a drooling from the previous book, and I was impatiently waiting for their story. I knew it was gonna be hot, and about a man healing and finding love. We got all that, but we also got shallow Cam and Daniel with their multiple personalities.
Daniel the product of a bad home life has built his way up to owning his own company and having money. He lives to protect his little brother, but over the years, he has forgotten about others in order to make a disastrous marriage work. The marriage is over and Daniel has decided to be true to himself and come out to the world. Now he’s man whoring himself around town, and he’s hardly a good person. He lies, and is unable to find happiness in anything. A car wreck has left him without the use of one of his hands, and his pity party is strong. In comes Cam the hot fire fighter with the heart of gold, who can do and say no wrong (gimme a break). Their relationship was never the best, but a friendly relationship begins that leads to more.
The inconsistencies in this book is strong, I just do not understand what happened to my Cam and Daniel. At times, I really liked them, and at most, I wanted to slap them in the head. Daniel facing his issues was a good thing, but everyone around him kept making him the bad person, as if he was this horrible guy. Honestly, I have yet to see this horrible person, sketchy and unsure yes, but horrible? Not even, close. His life has shaped him and he has every right to be wary. He is not a perfect person, and I sorta hated how they expected so much from him.
The sex between Daniel and Cam is desert storm hot, but the relationship part is a great big pot of 'you have got to be fecking kidding me'. They both have no idea what they want. One minute its not working but the next love is blooming like roses in a freaking garden. I yelled a few times 'just make up your mind already', and just when you think all is well, either Cam or Dan pulls a douche bag move. I had high hopes for them, though not completely disappointed I am also less then impressed.
Overall, I really enjoyed going back to St.Nacho’s and hearing about everyone from previous books. I liked many elements of the story (laughed my ass off a few times), but disappointed in the characters. Even though I got my HEA, I am still waiting for Daniel to bolt. In the upside, this might be the dirtiest ZA book ever; I was like “WHAT”, some very unexpected hotness. My final thoughts are that this series is not to be missed, and though it seems as if I am just hating, I honestly liked the book just wondering what the hell happened to the characters.
February 6, 2012
I like the series but this one didn't work for me. The big picture seems too large and complicated to crammed with romance. Everyone acted like bastards, Jake a whiny brother who's very demanding while never gave anything back to his brother (which I think it out-of-character considered the previous book), while Dan a middle-aged looser who just let his life along the wrong-current. No spark-fire btw Dan and Cam. Worse was when others left Dan fought for them alone for 4 months, felt ridiculous that no one couldn't thought where and what he disappeared for. Only scene I can breath in relief is when Bree gave the business back to Dan, though I think it's not like her too.
May 6, 2024
When I read this series for the first time this book was my absolute favourite. So glad when old favourites still works cause I loved it this time too. This book is about Daniel who recently came out. He struggles with his relationships to his younger brother, his bitter ex wife and his new attraction to fireman Cam. Perfect ending.
December 5, 2017
~ 4.5 stars ~
My favorite in this series!
My favorite in this series!
April 15, 2012
4.5 stars. I was really glad to see this book was about Daniel, Jacob's brother from Jacob's Ladder. He was such an interesting character, with such conflict and potential. This was another wonderful look at the man, and many of his complexities were laid clear. Again here was a MC with real flaws who none the less is very sympathetic and will capture your heart. Two things made me down-grade this book slightly from its prequel. One is that the romantic MC's are not together as much as I would have liked for much of the book, so I felt a little short-changed of emotional moments between them. But the bigger one is that there is a time-skip near the end of the book that covers what should have been the most intensely emotional time period for Daniel, the POV character, and for all the characters who cared about him. Only seeing it reflected in the aftermath was much less satisfying. So I liked this book a whole lot, but came away with a little regret for the bits that weren't there.
August 30, 2011
What can I say? I loved Dan and Cam so much. This book represented everything I love about the St. Nacho's series- the feeling of the town, the character's, the journey of finding yourself. Dan's revelations and process self-discovery was one of my favorite parts of the book. I felt like I was in his head and could understand every emotion he was feeling. This book was masterfully written- wringing emotion after emotion out of me- angst, melancholy, sadness, happiness, anger, etc. I felt like I had been through the wringer by the time I finished this book but what a great journey it was!!!
September 15, 2011
3.5 stars. Good m/m romance about Jake's brother, Daniel, who was seriously injured in the previous book. He's still in St. Nacho's going to physical therapy, waiting for his divorce to go through, admiring a handsome firefighter from afar, and getting grief from people about substituting money for emotion. I would have liked this better if it hadn't made several time jumps near the end, which I thought made the story seem disjointed and somewhat rushed.
April 28, 2015
Im a fan of this series but this is my least favorite of the four books. I love the first half, second half felt rushed and that ending was just disappointing. Physical Therapy is the best in this series for me.
October 26, 2021
Honestly, this is my favorite of the series. The level of angst is just a little less painful, and the possibility for a happily ever after is always in reach.
November 17, 2021
3.5 stars.
October 13, 2011
This is the fourth installment in Ms. Maxfield's St. Nacho's series, and I while I am hard pressed to name a favorite, I really liked this one.
Daniel is a real estate investor, going through a divorce after 12 years of marriage, stopping over in St. Nacho's after being injured in a car accident that badly injured his hand. His brother, Jake, has settled in town and is putting down roots with his soon to be husband and making a name for himself with his new bakery/cafe. Exploring his freedom with any man handy, Daniel is determined to change his ways, tell the truth, and be a better man.
Cam is a fireman, one of the two biggest players in town, and one hot man. He is also the compassionate, caring and gentle man who helped rescue Daniel from the crash that injured him so badly. He has a past of his own that brought him to the small town of St. Nacho's, which has helped soothe his damaged soul.
These two men spar with each other, and distrust each other mightily. That only serves to hide a growing attraction, but can the two men let go of their pasts long enough to make something worthwhile happen.
Ms. Maxfield has created two of her most memorable characters (and that is saying a lot!) in Daniel and Cam. These two men are both damaged by their families in ways that most men would find it hard to recover from. I found Daniel's ability to adapt remarkable, and his commitment to being an admirable man worthy of being loved so touching. Cam is a good man, but finds it hard to put his trust in one man, especially one who has been living a lie for so many years. Yet, both look deep inside and find the strength to risk and take a chance.
This series really does keep getting better and better, like fine wine. I hope Ms. Maxwell continues to build on this wonderful series of characters. I have been really impressed and enchanted (too gay? certainly not!) by her story telling, and am a fan for life. Her stories about family and acceptance rival those of Amy Lane with er "Promise Rock" series, and I cannot wait for more!
Enthusiastic thumbs up!!!
Daniel is a real estate investor, going through a divorce after 12 years of marriage, stopping over in St. Nacho's after being injured in a car accident that badly injured his hand. His brother, Jake, has settled in town and is putting down roots with his soon to be husband and making a name for himself with his new bakery/cafe. Exploring his freedom with any man handy, Daniel is determined to change his ways, tell the truth, and be a better man.
Cam is a fireman, one of the two biggest players in town, and one hot man. He is also the compassionate, caring and gentle man who helped rescue Daniel from the crash that injured him so badly. He has a past of his own that brought him to the small town of St. Nacho's, which has helped soothe his damaged soul.
These two men spar with each other, and distrust each other mightily. That only serves to hide a growing attraction, but can the two men let go of their pasts long enough to make something worthwhile happen.
Ms. Maxfield has created two of her most memorable characters (and that is saying a lot!) in Daniel and Cam. These two men are both damaged by their families in ways that most men would find it hard to recover from. I found Daniel's ability to adapt remarkable, and his commitment to being an admirable man worthy of being loved so touching. Cam is a good man, but finds it hard to put his trust in one man, especially one who has been living a lie for so many years. Yet, both look deep inside and find the strength to risk and take a chance.
This series really does keep getting better and better, like fine wine. I hope Ms. Maxwell continues to build on this wonderful series of characters. I have been really impressed and enchanted (too gay? certainly not!) by her story telling, and am a fan for life. Her stories about family and acceptance rival those of Amy Lane with er "Promise Rock" series, and I cannot wait for more!
Enthusiastic thumbs up!!!
December 5, 2011
I am not really sure how to review this one because i loved it and i didn' t at the same time. First off, the parts i loved, i really loved but what i didn't like, i hated. Tough call. So what did i like? I totally loved Cam...big yummy fireman who happens to be sweet and honest and loving and adorable and sexy as sin. I like Daniel too but think he got the raw deal from everyone. I liked revisiting Jake and Jt and was glad that they were able to make a life together.
What I didn't like...i didn't like the way everyone treated Daniel, i didn't think it was anyones business why his marriage to Bree failed or that he knew he was gay but married her anyway. It was almost as if be had to live up to everyones high standards but no matter what be did he couldn't please anyone. I wouldn't want to live on St. Nachos either if i was him. I also think the book was more of a revisit and extension of Jakes story...very little time was spent with just Cam and Daniel...plus the four month time jump at the end was wierd. I didn't like how Lonnie and Joyce were all of a sudden a big part of the wedding when we only met them once and never heard from again.
I really like this series but for some reason this story jumped around too much for me. So even thoigh it shows four stars , it's more like 3.5. But, i will read the next one if there is another...go figure.
What I didn't like...i didn't like the way everyone treated Daniel, i didn't think it was anyones business why his marriage to Bree failed or that he knew he was gay but married her anyway. It was almost as if be had to live up to everyones high standards but no matter what be did he couldn't please anyone. I wouldn't want to live on St. Nachos either if i was him. I also think the book was more of a revisit and extension of Jakes story...very little time was spent with just Cam and Daniel...plus the four month time jump at the end was wierd. I didn't like how Lonnie and Joyce were all of a sudden a big part of the wedding when we only met them once and never heard from again.
I really like this series but for some reason this story jumped around too much for me. So even thoigh it shows four stars , it's more like 3.5. But, i will read the next one if there is another...go figure.
November 26, 2016
re-read
Dan isn't that sympathetic a character, he's letting his life spiral out of control and leaving little to connect to. Everyone around him seems to be busy judging and resenting him, even when he's giving support he's in the wrong. Cam apparently has an amazing aura, but honestly I can't say I liked anyone in this story unreservedly.
A lot of complications to fit into one story, there's a time leap towards the end that threw me and to my mind everyone acted out of character. Would Bree really behave like that? I don't think so. Could a friendship really survive that? Again no chance.
Remember liking this series originally, but this book isn't a winner for me.
Dan isn't that sympathetic a character, he's letting his life spiral out of control and leaving little to connect to. Everyone around him seems to be busy judging and resenting him, even when he's giving support he's in the wrong. Cam apparently has an amazing aura, but honestly I can't say I liked anyone in this story unreservedly.
A lot of complications to fit into one story, there's a time leap towards the end that threw me and to my mind everyone acted out of character. Would Bree really behave like that? I don't think so. Could a friendship really survive that? Again no chance.
Remember liking this series originally, but this book isn't a winner for me.
October 15, 2011
Finished finally. Out of the four books so far I liked this one the most. I actually felt a conection between Cam and Dan and was rooting for them. There was more of a story line, for me, which helped make this a more interesting read. But overall they were just an OK read with nothing to get excited about. Maybe its me and I just wasn't in the right mood for these books.
December 30, 2012
Another great story set in St Nachos. The emotional story of Daniel and Cam. Great characters and lots of soul searching but also humour.
"You're a cowboy and a fireman?" "Yes, Daniel," Cam said drily. "It's almost as if I am half of the Village People, all rolled into one."<\b>
"You're a cowboy and a fireman?" "Yes, Daniel," Cam said drily. "It's almost as if I am half of the Village People, all rolled into one."<\b>
October 5, 2014
I loved this story and i especially loved Daniel and Cam. I am so grateful to Macky for pushing me to read it. Now the end was a little wonky and it felt quite uneven. They did get their HEA, but it could have been better.
I would most definitely recommend this series.
I would most definitely recommend this series.
August 4, 2014
I had a tough time with a rating on this one. Daniel as a character was 5 stars, but the storytelling was a bit uneven and I found some missed opportunities that I would have liked to see.
Have I mentioned that I loved Daniel. From his introduction in the last book, I found him to be one of the more compelling characters in this series. His life is in complete upheaval and he is not always sympathetic, but he is a good person. He is still in St. Nacho's, living with his brother Jake, while he is recovering from the car accident and trying to decide where to settle. He is not enamored with St. Nacho's as everyone else who passes through seems to be and frankly, he is treated rather poorly by the people who have suddenly become judgmental and rude. None of this was helped by his brother Jake's apparent inability to keep Daniel's personal issues to himself. The fact that Daniel really didn't like living under the St. Nacho's microscope made me like him even more.
There is the romance with slutty firefighter Cam, but to me that was secondary to Daniel trying to reset the course of his life and decide what is really important to him. As Daniel begins to challenge his business partner's ideas and finalize his divorce with his bitchy ex-wife, his and Jake's abusive father returns to the picture to add more tension Jake and Daniel's relationship.
Where the storyline lost me was the time jump at the end. What should have been a climactic and emotional part of the story that could have really shed some new light on Daniel and his relationships with everyone in the book was completely skipped over and we were told a little bit about what happened. That really did not sit well with me and left me a bit confused. Other than that misstep at the end I did enjoy the story.
Have I mentioned that I loved Daniel. From his introduction in the last book, I found him to be one of the more compelling characters in this series. His life is in complete upheaval and he is not always sympathetic, but he is a good person. He is still in St. Nacho's, living with his brother Jake, while he is recovering from the car accident and trying to decide where to settle. He is not enamored with St. Nacho's as everyone else who passes through seems to be and frankly, he is treated rather poorly by the people who have suddenly become judgmental and rude. None of this was helped by his brother Jake's apparent inability to keep Daniel's personal issues to himself. The fact that Daniel really didn't like living under the St. Nacho's microscope made me like him even more.
There is the romance with slutty firefighter Cam, but to me that was secondary to Daniel trying to reset the course of his life and decide what is really important to him. As Daniel begins to challenge his business partner's ideas and finalize his divorce with his bitchy ex-wife, his and Jake's abusive father returns to the picture to add more tension Jake and Daniel's relationship.
Where the storyline lost me was the time jump at the end. What should have been a climactic and emotional part of the story that could have really shed some new light on Daniel and his relationships with everyone in the book was completely skipped over and we were told a little bit about what happened. That really did not sit well with me and left me a bit confused. Other than that misstep at the end I did enjoy the story.
January 2, 2013
4.0 Stars
Daniel Livingston has left his cheating wife, come out about being gay, and moved to St. Nacho’s to spend time with his brother, Yasha. Freedom is sweet relief and Daniel is living it up by exploring the endless sexual buffet being hot, rich, and single has to offer. Firefighter Cameron Rooney, however, gets under Dan's skin. Despite his newfound freedom, Dan finds himself wanting a life with Cameron more. But Cam is going to require a level of honesty Dan has never before sustained. In order to achieve it, Dan will have to turn his life inside out: coming clean to his ex-wife will cost him money, doing right by St. Nacho’s will anger his business partner, and exploring a painful family secret will hurt the one person Dan has sworn to protect. Once again, the magic of St. Nacho takes care of its own as Dan and Cam fight and win their HEA.
I really liked this book. I loved both MCs, especially Cam. Although Dan's shady ways were frustrating at times, I enjoyed seeing him transform as the story progressed. His lack of communication with Cam infuriated me to no end but their HEA made everything worth it. I was seeing red when Dan's decision to come clean with Bree nearly cost him (and the residents of St. Nacho) everything. But she came around (surprisingly) in the end. As before, the extended cast of characters were entertaining. I especially liked the three witches!
Bottom line: a wonderful addition to the St. Nacho's series. Recommend!
Daniel Livingston has left his cheating wife, come out about being gay, and moved to St. Nacho’s to spend time with his brother, Yasha. Freedom is sweet relief and Daniel is living it up by exploring the endless sexual buffet being hot, rich, and single has to offer. Firefighter Cameron Rooney, however, gets under Dan's skin. Despite his newfound freedom, Dan finds himself wanting a life with Cameron more. But Cam is going to require a level of honesty Dan has never before sustained. In order to achieve it, Dan will have to turn his life inside out: coming clean to his ex-wife will cost him money, doing right by St. Nacho’s will anger his business partner, and exploring a painful family secret will hurt the one person Dan has sworn to protect. Once again, the magic of St. Nacho takes care of its own as Dan and Cam fight and win their HEA.
I really liked this book. I loved both MCs, especially Cam. Although Dan's shady ways were frustrating at times, I enjoyed seeing him transform as the story progressed. His lack of communication with Cam infuriated me to no end but their HEA made everything worth it. I was seeing red when Dan's decision to come clean with Bree nearly cost him (and the residents of St. Nacho) everything. But she came around (surprisingly) in the end. As before, the extended cast of characters were entertaining. I especially liked the three witches!
Bottom line: a wonderful addition to the St. Nacho's series. Recommend!
July 19, 2014
Cam got fucked over big time in this story!
Daniel so did not deserve Cam. I wished this story was told from Cam's POV. I didn't like Daniel and didn't find him interesting enough for his own story. This was such a disappointment from the previous book.
I found Minerva and Muse hiding behind trees painting runes on Daniel's driveway and trees to be pretty childish. BreeAnna was such an over-the-top character. 12 years they stayed married???? I didn't buy her repentance or Daniel's for that matter. I wanted to learn more about Cam's family. I wanted him to have reached out to his siblings.
I read every word in Jacob's Ladder but I started skimming pretty heavily in this one after the guys hooked up, which was too soon in my opinion. I didn't care about Daniel and Jake's dad.
Of the couples, I liked Jordan and Ken the best. I think they'll have the surest future. Second comes Jacob and JT, then Cooper and Shawn. Daniel and Cam? Forgetaboutit!
Least favorite book in the series.
Daniel so did not deserve Cam. I wished this story was told from Cam's POV. I didn't like Daniel and didn't find him interesting enough for his own story. This was such a disappointment from the previous book.
I found Minerva and Muse hiding behind trees painting runes on Daniel's driveway and trees to be pretty childish. BreeAnna was such an over-the-top character. 12 years they stayed married???? I didn't buy her repentance or Daniel's for that matter. I wanted to learn more about Cam's family. I wanted him to have reached out to his siblings.
I read every word in Jacob's Ladder but I started skimming pretty heavily in this one after the guys hooked up, which was too soon in my opinion. I didn't care about Daniel and Jake's dad.
Of the couples, I liked Jordan and Ken the best. I think they'll have the surest future. Second comes Jacob and JT, then Cooper and Shawn. Daniel and Cam? Forgetaboutit!
Least favorite book in the series.
September 6, 2011
I'm feeling conflicted on what to rate this. If this were anyone other than ZAM I would say this is an above average book, but since this is ZAM I know what an excellent writer she is. On top of that, I'm disappointed by the last two chapters. It was jarring to not only skip four months ahead, but to find out so much had happened in the interim (and not go through that with Dan). Then have the next chapter skip ahead to where Dan had rebuilt everything (and yet again not go through that with him).
I thoroughly enjoyed the book up until the last two chapters. But what's the point of enjoying a large part of a book then be disconnected and distracted for the rest of the book?
I think I'll give it three stars. The characters were well written, but not going through those four months with Dan made the last chapters feel like a short outline of what happened instead of a fully fleshed out novel.
I thoroughly enjoyed the book up until the last two chapters. But what's the point of enjoying a large part of a book then be disconnected and distracted for the rest of the book?
I think I'll give it three stars. The characters were well written, but not going through those four months with Dan made the last chapters feel like a short outline of what happened instead of a fully fleshed out novel.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 8, 2011
This book started off great. I liked Daniel and Cam from the previous book, but unfortunately the minute they stopped their bickering they became boring.
Way too many storylines and problems for Danny. I wish they would have either focused completely on the family drama, the drama with his ex-wife or the drama with his business. Just too many issues to focus on.
I also think the characters in this book were a bit overdramatic. They become offended or heartbroken by everything. Their dialogue is also very very melodramatic and on the nose. If anyone was that forceful with verbalizing their passions you would probably run.
Also, why are men in these books always crying?! I have lived in close quarters with men, are best friends with them and I am really close to my brothers. Never have I seen or heard of them crying this much. When something tragic happens yes, but not because their feelings are hurt, etc. Authors lets toughen our men up please.
Way too many storylines and problems for Danny. I wish they would have either focused completely on the family drama, the drama with his ex-wife or the drama with his business. Just too many issues to focus on.
I also think the characters in this book were a bit overdramatic. They become offended or heartbroken by everything. Their dialogue is also very very melodramatic and on the nose. If anyone was that forceful with verbalizing their passions you would probably run.
Also, why are men in these books always crying?! I have lived in close quarters with men, are best friends with them and I am really close to my brothers. Never have I seen or heard of them crying this much. When something tragic happens yes, but not because their feelings are hurt, etc. Authors lets toughen our men up please.
October 10, 2015
I have one little gripe. Why does one need rubber surgical gloves when participating in the act of sex with your partner and yet you're ok to get your tongue in there??? [Sorry if this is TMI :)] I get the whole bodily fluids thing, but this is a book and if you're reading this you probably already know all about "safe sex". Is that the job of an author these days?
If the characters were into rubber fetish, were players or even rent boys, I'd understand but, when Daniel whips out the rubber glove it kind of made me go "WTF!" and it tended to detract from the whole romance and sexiness of the scene.
Look, this is truly such a teeny tiny gripe and overall I liked the main characters Daniel & Cam and there was also a nice supporting cast. The book is a good read/listen and an enjoyable series.
3.5 stars
If the characters were into rubber fetish, were players or even rent boys, I'd understand but, when Daniel whips out the rubber glove it kind of made me go "WTF!" and it tended to detract from the whole romance and sexiness of the scene.
Look, this is truly such a teeny tiny gripe and overall I liked the main characters Daniel & Cam and there was also a nice supporting cast. The book is a good read/listen and an enjoyable series.
3.5 stars
June 20, 2013
3.5 stars!
*sigh*
Another series is all wrapped up.
Daniel..hmmm. I'm not really sure how I feel about him. Sometimes I like him and understand his thinking other times I want to throttle him! Cam..I loved him since the last book and I waited patiently for him to mention a ride on the 'camshaft'!!
The first part of the story pulled me right in and we got to be involved in just about every part. Then there was a certain point where we weren't 'involved' anymore and we only got to read the tidbits and events in passing. I would have like to been all in from beginning to end.
Overall this series was fabulous with my favorite being Physical Therapy. I would definitely recommend this series to others!
*sigh*
Another series is all wrapped up.
Daniel..hmmm. I'm not really sure how I feel about him. Sometimes I like him and understand his thinking other times I want to throttle him! Cam..I loved him since the last book and I waited patiently for him to mention a ride on the 'camshaft'!!
The first part of the story pulled me right in and we got to be involved in just about every part. Then there was a certain point where we weren't 'involved' anymore and we only got to read the tidbits and events in passing. I would have like to been all in from beginning to end.
Overall this series was fabulous with my favorite being Physical Therapy. I would definitely recommend this series to others!
January 16, 2016
This was a really satisfactory conclusion to this series. I actually really enjoyed how internally twisted up Daniel was inside. He's lived so long for other people he really doesn't know how to exist as himself anymore and it takes him awhile to figure it out, to figure out what he really wants for himself. Cam of course is just a doll and so simple and earnest in his own desires. He's very sure of himself and his place in the world, but his feelings for Daniel throw him for a bit of a loop as trusting Daniel isn't easy.
This story was really lovely in that it completed a lot of the arcs of our past characters and tied up the world of St. Nachos very sweetly. The ending was very charming and left me all warm in fuzzy in the best possible way. Solid 4.5 stars
October 7, 2016
Reviewed for Prism Book Alliance
4.5Stars
I think part of the reason for my brain's reluctance to recognize the point of view shift between the two books is that there are similar themes in both books. Also, there is a lot more character overlap between Jacob and Daniel than there was between the first three books. Finally, as Daniel and Jacob are brothers, there is a lot of similarity in their characters. I think I had a similar issue with the paradigm shift when reading these books in eBook format so many moons ago.
For Complete review see Prism Book Alliance: http://www.prismbookalliance.com/?pos...
January 17, 2019
I love this book the first time I read it and still love it the fourth. I just had love and sometimes hated relationship with Daniel's journey to getting real. The only reason this book was never a five star read for me because people of St.Nacho were so damn quick to judge Daniel. I admit I have never read book 3 and I don't plan too. Something just never gel right with me and Jake (Yasha). I have to say that Z.A Maxfield knows how to bring the umph. I'm still holding out hope that this isn't the end of St.Nacho.
December 22, 2014
I loved Cam & his quixotic cat but I really disliked the character of Dan ... add in a little WTF-ery with the plot not making sense & I'd have to say this is my least favourite book in the series.
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