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Lover – A Survivor storyLife has not always been kind to Shannon Dupree. On the outside he’s carefree and fun loving, but when it comes to his past he’s evasive and secretive. Running away from emotionally bereft parents at just fifteen, Shannon escapes life with them but steps into the waiting arms of the devil. Rory Landers is a rising star at the Bureau. His personal life, however, is nothing to write home about. He hopes to take his limited relationship with Frank Moore to the next level when they finally solve the Langford murder case, but that doesn’t turn out as planned. On the plus side, he meets free-spirited college senior Shannon Dupree.Rand Davis finds himself fortysomething and single when his partner of more than a decade is unfaithful. Taking over the Cold Case Squad frees up some of his time, and Rand welcomes newfound friendships within the Langford-Moore family circle. He thinks relationships are not in the cards for him until he meets an agent with an attitude and a vivacious blond that make him want so much more. Past, present, pain, and suffering collide, ushering in the possibility of a life and love worth fighting for. Although their personalities couldn't be more different, their three hearts beat the same. Shannon, Rory, and Rand learn the definition of love, commitment, and strength and if they allow themselves, the trio will find all that and more—in each This is the sequel to Survivor, the stories should be read in order

218 pages, Paperback

First published April 19, 2018

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141 people want to read

About the author

T.M. Smith

28 books316 followers
TM Smith
Author bio and links:

A military brat born and raised at Ft. Benning Georgia; Smith is an avid reader that just happens to write sweet & sexy gay romance. A Texas transplant, she now calls DFW her home. Most days she can be found curled up with a good book, or ticking away on her next novel.

Smith is a single mom of three disturbingly outspoken and decidedly different kids, one of which is Autistic. Besides her writing, she is passionate about Autism advocacy and LGBT rights. Because, seriously people, Love is Love!

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
Profile Image for Trio.
3,615 reviews207 followers
April 19, 2020
I'm so glad I got back into this series. I loved Survivor and if you haven't listened to that one, you'll be okay doing this as a standalone. Though I do recommend it, that's a wonderful story.

TM Smith writes a great menage story in Lover. It's a very compelling romance, with a heart-breaking hurt/comfort tale and a very happy ending.

Nick J. Russo gives one of his best performances ever in this series - I highly recommend doing this one in audio!

I received an audiobook copy of Lover for the purpose of my honest review
Profile Image for Carra.
1,733 reviews31 followers
April 23, 2018
So first things first…Lover is the second book in this series, and I would strongly recommend you read the first book, Survivor before starting this one. While Survivor does focus on Taylor and Frank’s story, the events that occur and the characters that are introduced in that book directly shape Lover and you may find yourself lost at some points during the story if you haven’t read Survivor beforehand.

Lover centers on three of the men we met in Survivor: Shannon, Rory, and Rand. Shannon’s past was beyond rough, and the way he fought back from his darkest point shows just how strong and determined this young man is. I love how he and Taylor went from hookup in book one to best friends with an unbreakable bond here in book two. Shannon is the definition of a survivor, and he is by far my favorite character in this story.

When we met Rory in Survivor, he was undercover watching Frank…though much more closely than what the FBI intended. I felt bad for him in that story, and I was glad he would be getting his story told here in Lover. He and Shannon are a natural, easy fit from the start, and are crazy hot together as their relationship develops. At first, Rand feels like the odd man out…but the more time he interacts with both Shannon and Rory, the more you can see the chemistry developing between him and each of the other two men.

What eventually develops between the three men comes slowly, and it isn’t until very late in the story that they finally come together as a threesome (and even then don’t expect hot and steamy from them together right away). There’s a lot of buildup before then, and much of the focus of the story is on the case Rory and Rand are working that winds up encompassing Shannon’s past as well.

Lover is filled with drama and emotion, and while I actually preferred this author’s other threesome stories more (from the All Cocks series), this story was still a very solid 4-star read for me, and fits very well in this series. This story also plants the seed for the next book, and I can’t wait to read more about Blair (another FBI agent) and Mannie (someone from the case Rory and Rand worked in this book). Lover is meant for readers 18+ for adult language, descriptions of assault, and sexual content.
Profile Image for Joyfully Jay.
9,076 reviews517 followers
June 5, 2018
A Joyfully Jay review.

4.25 stars


Okay, quickly let me start by saying that this book includes talk of child abuse and domestic violence. While neither is particularly graphic, there is enough detail that it could be triggering to some people. I won’t be going into detail here, but I will say that I thought the author handled it well. Now that everyone is aware, onto the review.

This is the sequel to Survivor and while all these characters and some of their history together were introduced in that first book, I think technically it can stand on it’s own. The author does a good job filling in the gaps. That being said, however, I think it has more of an impact if the series is read in order.

I really liked Survivor, so I was eager to pick this book up and see what Smith had in store for these three men. While I definitely had a few small issues with the book, I have to say that it worked really well. Like the first book, and the series name implies, one of the characters has survived something horrific in their past. In this case, it’s Shannon. The book starts with his escape, and it’s a heart pounding moment. I could feel his fear and desperation. It really drew me into the book and set the tone for the story.

Read Kris’ review in its entirety here.

Profile Image for Lorenzo Adduci.
313 reviews8 followers
April 3, 2024
Voto 4,5 💖
“Amanti”, secondo volume della serie “Survivor” di T.M. Smith, si pone in continuità con il primo libro e ci narra le vicende di altri tre uomini, Shannon, Rory e Rand, che intrecciano le loro vite in un sentimento unico che conforta e lenisce le ferite. La storia risulta ancor più complessa della precedente, in quanto l’autrice ricostruisce, pezzo dopo pezzo nel corso degli anni, le dinamiche di tre differenti esistenze che finiscono per incrociarsi lungo il cammino e non poter più fare a meno l’una delle altre. Questi tre protagonisti sono delineati con grande precisione ed efficacia, con un ruolo importante all’interno della grande famiglia allargata che avevamo iniziato ad amare con Taylor e Frank e che prescinde dai legami di sangue.
Shannon Dupree è un ragazzo dolce, vivace, passionale, di grande temperamento e amante della danza. Eppure, dietro la sua spensieratezza e allegria si cela un profondo dolore, causato prima dalla totale indifferenza dei suoi genitori e poi da anni di abusi perpetrati da un uomo molto più grande, che lo aveva adescato ancora minorenne professandogli amore e dedizione, per poi rinchiuderlo con la violenza in una prigione dorata. A diciotto anni Shannon era riuscito a fuggire ed aveva ricominciato a vivere frequentando il college e stringendo una profonda amicizia con Taylor Langford, che lo aveva spronato a realizzare i suoi sogni e a lasciarsi il passato alle spalle. Stabilitosi a Dallas, avrà la possibilità di incontrare i due amori della sua vita, ma dovrà prima fare i conti con tutti i suoi incubi.
Rory Landers è un ottimo agente dell’FBI che sta percorrendo una luminosa carriera all’interno del Bureau. Rory è un ragazzo sicuro delle proprie capacità, che non si lascia facilmente dominare e mettere i piedi in testa e a volte reagisce con strafottenza. Tuttavia, come avevamo già visto nel precedente libro, la sua vita sentimentale aveva subito una profonda incrinatura, dopo che il poliziotto Frank Moore, con cui aveva avuto una relazione saltuaria per anni mentre era sotto copertura, si era infuriato dopo aver scoperto la sua vera identità, facendogli, oltretutto, capire di essere innamorato di Taylor. Nonostante ciò, il suo legame con la famiglia di Taylor e Frank continua a persistere e rappresenta un’occasione per conoscere Shannon e innamorarsi di lui. Nel frattempo, il prosieguo delle indagini sull’assassinio dei genitori di Taylor e sulle misteriose scomparse di alcuni giovani lo porta in continuo contatto con il sergente Davis, verso cui inizia a provare una profonda attrazione.
Rand Davis è un quarantenne, in apparenza inflessibile e dal carattere dominante, ma di buon cuore e assai protettivo verso le persone che ama. Dopo una carriera decennale nell’esercito, ha iniziato in modo soddisfacente e brillante la sua attività nel Dipartimento di Polizia di Dallas a capo della Sezione Crimini Irrisolti. La sua unica famiglia è sua sorella Claire, l’unica persona che continua a rimanergli accanto dopo la morte dei genitori in un incidente e il tradimento del compagno. Ma un bellissimo ragazzo biondo e un sexy e irriverente agente dai capelli corvini potrebbero essere la sua occasione per ricominciare ad amare.
L’autrice, con la sua scrittura precisa e incisiva, ha dato vita a una narrazione coinvolgente, ricca di sentimento e passionalità, con l’aggiunta di una componente ben strutturata, fatta di mistero e indagini. Con abilità ha incastrato tutti i pezzi che compongono il complicato mosaico dei destini di Rory, Shannon e Rand, riuscendo in modo credibile a descrivere una relazione fra tre persone. Ho amato la semplicità con cui Rory e Shannon si ritrovano a intessere il primo pezzo della loro storia d’amore, convinti di essere fatti l’uno per l’altro. I due uomini hanno nel loro bagaglio una buona dose di ferite, delusioni e sofferenze, ma si buttano con entusiasmo in questa nuova relazione, consapevoli di non voler più sprecare tempo e di voler vivere fino in fondo i propri sentimenti. Non sono ancora consapevoli di aver bisogno di un’altra persona per essere davvero completi, ma non riescono a fare a meno di gravitare intorno al bellissimo e imponente sergente Davis, che li attira provocando in loro turbamenti. A sua volta, Rand è incerto, desidera entrambi, ma non vuole intromettersi in una relazione già avviata. Il destino farà in modo di metterli di fronte al fatto compiuto, facendo loro comprendere che i loro cuori viaggiano alla stessa velocità.
“Amanti” è una bella prova di maturità di un’autrice che riesce sempre a parlare di sentimenti in modo semplice, ma convincente, catturando l’attenzione dei lettori con le sue amabili storie incentrate su grandi famiglie unite semplicemente da affetto e solidarietà.
Profile Image for Dalia.
829 reviews6 followers
October 3, 2019
T.M. Smith è ritornata e con lei questa bella serie che parla di sopravvissuti, quelli veri, quelli che lottano con le unghie e con i denti per tirarsi fuori da una vita che ha preteso fin troppo da loro. Consiglio di leggere Amanti solo dopo aver letto “Sopravvissuto” primo libro della serie, perché tutti i protagonisti di questa storia hanno avuto ruoli importanti nel libro precedente. Amanti è un libro molto più complesso rispetto al primo e non solo perché i protagonisti sono tre, ma anche per l’intreccio poliziesco molto ben strutturato. Avendo già conosciuto i protagonisti nel libro precedente devo dare merito all’autrice di avermi fatto un grande favore nel farmeli vedere sotto una nuova luce e facendomi sbirciare in varie fasi della loro vita per comprendere a fondo quello che ognuno di loro ha affrontato per riuscire ad afferrare la felicità. I tre protagonisti, Shannon, Rory e Rand. Sono diversi come il giorno e la notte ma, grazie a quello che ognuno di loro ha vissuto, potranno mettere le basi per trovare il giusto connubio per una relazione d’amore che li coinvolge tutti.

Tutta la storia ruota, ancora una volta intorno alla famiglia Langford-More, e a un’indagine di polizia che vede coinvolti Rory Landers un agente del Bureau, Rand Davies dell’FBI e Shannon Dupree il più giovane del trio.

Quando facciamo la conoscenza di Shannon è un giovane uomo in pericolo. Circuito da un uomo molto più grande di lui, quando aveva poco più di quindici anni, vive l’inferno sulla terra fino a quando non riesce a sfuggirgli. Deciso a riprendere in mano la sua vita condurrà per qualche anno una vita all’insegna del sesso e della spensieratezza, ma poi l’incontro con Taylor gli darà una base solida da cui poter dare un nuovo senso alla sua vita. Allegro, spensierato e dolce si rivela essere la persona giusta per un tipo come Rory Landers, che apprezza la bellezza e la genuinità del giovane, soprattutto dopo aver dovuto dire addio a Frank More e al suo desiderio di andare oltre nella loro relazione. Incontro dopo incontro, tra i due l’iniziale attrazione si trasforma presto in amore e devozione e i due diventano una coppia affiatata e unita. A turbare quello che ognuno prova per l’altro, arriverà sulla scena Rand Davies, un poliziotto quarantenne che è stato tradito dal suo compagno dopo dieci anni di convivenza e che, pur essendo attratto da entrambi gli uomini, proprio a causa del torto subito, farà di tutto per tenersi alla larga da entrambi e far finta di nulla. Solo che raramente il passato non torna a bussare alle porte delle persone e quando quello di Shannon si presenta alla sua porta facendo fare un grande salto in avanti alle indagini che Rand e Rory conducono da anni, i tre uomini dovranno scendere a patti con quello che ognuno di loro prova per gli altri due e capire dove questi sentimenti potranno portarli.

Ecco, a mio parere, questa è una delle threesome meglio riuscite tra quelle lette fin’ora. L’autrice ha saputo caratterizzare in modo perfetto i tre protagonisti, che hanno mantenuto fede a quello che sono fino alla fine. Shannon, l’elemento più fragile dei tre, è sicuramente il personaggio intorno al quale ruota tutto. La voglia di proteggerlo, di amarlo e supportarlo nelle sue scelte sarà il baricentro intorno a cui girerà Rand con la sua possessività e il suo essere autoritario nei confronti di entrambi e Rory che con la sua calma e pacatezza saprà dare stabilità a entrambi. Mi è piaciuto il modo in cui l’autrice ha reso possibile questa relazione a tre, facendoli avvicinare lentamente, dando modo a tutti loro di capire a fondo cosa provassero e non facendoli buttare uno addosso all’altro solo in nome della forte attrazione che provavano. Quindi sì, da questo punto di vista, onore e merito all’autrice, che non è scaduta nella banalità e non è stata volgare nelle scene hot che in verità non sono nemmeno tantissime. Mi sarebbe piaciuto che Rand e Rory, dopo tanti anni passati a indagare sull’assassino, avessero avuto più soddisfazione venendo a conoscenza di un paio di cose che il lettore scopre e loro no, ma sicuramente l’autrice se ne servirà per il prossimo libro che si prospetta ancora più interessante, soprattutto perché i protagonisti sono davvero grandiosi.

Come sempre, anche se non lo dico spesso, un grande merito va dato a chi traduce e alla CE che fa sempre un lavoro accuratissimo permettendo al lettore di assaporare a pieno la storia senza doversi perdere dietro errori e orrori grammaticali.
Profile Image for Hemmel M..
803 reviews54 followers
March 15, 2020
A very economically written novel, with every thought and feeling that could be missed, skipped. When the plot thickens even the spoken sentences exclude every word that's not needed to tell the story.
Fastly getting from point a to b, results ins a lot of coincidences and plot holes.
This is made worse by the narration. The chosen voices are ok, but quickly and lightly the narrator glosses over a lot of necessary pauses and emotions.
Profile Image for SoCalBookReviews.
602 reviews20 followers
September 23, 2018
~ 5 Stars Book & Narration ~

I really enjoy reading the stories that T.M Smith puts out, no matter how many main characters we get, whether it’s MM or MMM. They are all just fabulous, well rounded, thought out stories. With this one, I really do believe you need to read book one Survivor first or you will be a little lost and confused as to who the characters are and how they came to be at this point in the story and series. But, this book is a great addition and second installment to this full storyline. There are a few parts that had me a little confused at times and a few twists that I didn’t fully understand until the storyline was laid out completely. But this book was really interesting and it will definitely keep you guessing as to what will happen next. I think this author did a great job with the suspense and mystery aspect of this book, and was happy that it wasn’t just a sappy romance with no substance. This book had a really solid premise and plot especially with it being an MMM book and giving us three main characters instead of just two.

Shannon, you can’t help but completely fall in love with him. His background and what he had to deal with after he came out to his parents was horrible and will make you feel all kinds of emotions while reading it. Even though he still has fears to conquer and deal with daily, surviving that ordeal just made him so much stronger as a person. Shannon is someone you just want to hug and keep safe and close to you. He is totally adorable and I love that Rory and Rand totally dote on him, they all have a great connection and chemistry with each other.

Rory, I loved that Rory fell in love with Shannon first. He gave his all in their relationship right from the start, even knowing that Shannon had parts of his past he was holding closed off from everyone, he made sure not to push, knowing that Shannon would tell him when the time was right. Rory is the one who brings these men together and I thinks he’s the glue that will keep them together long term. I was really impressed with how his character was written. He’s sweet towards Shannon, but still has a rougher, snarky edge when it comes to his time with Rand.

Rand, his character was fun to watch. He feels an instant connection to both men, but being the standup honorable guy he is, he is very hesitant to act on any of his desires with either of the other men. I really liked seeing how all three guys fell in lust and love with each other, being so different but loving each other in their own ways. I really liked that even though Rand has a more dominant and strong type personality, he didn't push any of that onto Shannon and just became really sweet and a teddy bear when it came to him.

Audio – Nick J Russo, Another outstanding narration. I really enjoyed his voices for the first installment of this series and was really looking forward to seeing what he would give us with this one. He really made Shannon and Rory and Rand come to life. I really think he did a great job keeping all their voices different and making sure that they were on point with each characters personality and traits. He did a really solid job with his vocal performance on this book, and would highly recommend Lover, as well as book one Survivor in audio format.
Profile Image for Barb ~rede-2-read~.
3,752 reviews113 followers
May 29, 2018
ARC provided by the publisher through Scattered Thoughts and Rogue Words in exchange for an impartial review.

Shannon Dupree is a survivor. He managed to escape from a brutal relationship with an older man who first treated him like a special bauble and then beat him up every time Shannon did something he didn’t like. As the story opens in 2010, Shannon has just managed a successful escape and has made his way to Texas while hiding in fear of his life from his abuser.

The early chapters of the story move rather quickly through the years as the characters are introduced to readers and then get introduced to each other. Next to be introduced, in 2011, is Rory, an FBI agent who has been undercover for five years while trying to work on the Langford murder case. (Survivor) In 2013, the author establishes that Shannon and Taylor Langford have become friends and in fact later that year Taylor invests in Shannon’s new dance and yoga studio in Texas.

And then we meet Rand Davis, new to Dallas PD, and assigned to cold case files. In 2015, Shannon and Rory meet at a party and become friends and later lovers. And it’s not long after that when Rand and Rory meet and are assigned to cover a case together. To be honest, I’m not positive I have all the facts correct. There was a lot of backfill and there were two concurrent police issues: the first was the undercover coverage of the Langford family in the Texas area and the second was the discovery of a lead in the case of a judge’s missing grandson that leads Rory, and then Rand, to believe that there’s a serial killer loose in the Seattle area.

Fast forward to 2016 and the serial killer case is about to break. Apparently, not only are the victims blond and blue-eyed like Rory’s boyfriend, Shannon, but when Shannon spots a photo and finally tells Rory about his past abuse, the information he reveals may show a link between his case and the missing men. This causes the story action to escalate from that point until the final drama where all the storylines and characters merge and explosive action takes place. No spoilers here but I can say there’s definitely lots of excitement and I definitely didn’t want to put the book down.

However, after that action, the final chapters dragged by. These chapters told the story of the three men becoming more involved with one another and making a commitment to be a threesome. There were some brief but sketchy sex scenes, but I didn’t feel the love. And then, each time I turned what I thought would be the final page, I’d come to a new chapter in a different POV. To be honest, this last segment of the book could easily have been condensed since it didn’t add much substance to the story.

I liked all three men. Shannon was bright and cheerful most of the time, definitely the most effeminate of the three. Rory was sharp and dedicated, slender, tough, and thoughtful. Rand was older, bigger, sexy, and smart. Together they complemented each other in many ways and I was rooting for them to all get together so when it finally started to happen, after the other action drama ended, I was disappointed in the way their romance was told. Perhaps if there was more dialogue and less telling, or if the sex scenes were more explicit, it would have been more interesting. Sadly, most of the threesome’s sex scenes were done as two together with one observing, which I didn’t care for. To me, if one is going to have a “throuple” in love, one should have sex scenes that depict all three men having sex together.

I wouldn’t advise anyone to read this as a standalone. There is a lot of carryover from the first book—not just characters, but situations as well, so readers may miss an important connection if they start with this story.
Profile Image for DB Kimmers.
225 reviews42 followers
April 27, 2018
Lover is a thrilling journey you don’t want to take if you haven’t yet read the first book in T.M. Smith’s A Survivor Story series. Which by the way is fantastic! For those who have read Survivor, you’re gonna love the secrets this book reveals about Taylor Langford’s parents deaths, the behind-the-scenes, as well as the build-up of more thrills that bring Detective Davis, Agent Landers and the loveable Shannon Dupree together.

Within a three year time span during the Langford investigation, Smith introduces readers to the three main characters of Lover: Shannon Dupree, running from abuse at the tender age of eighteen. Rory Landers, undercover agent on a five year cold case who has fallen for a man he’s meant to protect. And Rand Davis, newly appointed Senior Detective who is beginning a new life after his long-time boyfriend cheated on him. Each looking for “that guy” to complete him.

Smith truly knows how to weave a tale and capture an audience. Little by little these men become part of each other’s lives and you can feel the tension build as to where the murder mystery is going to lead.

From here, as with the previous installment in the series, Smith walks us through seven years as these three men meet by fate, face desires, mount obstacles, grow, change and realize what they may be looking for may be nothing of what they imagined.

Five years after fleeing, Shannon is getting ready to make a new life with the support of his friend Taylor Langford and no longer fears an unexpected arrival from his ex. For Rory and his partner, Connie, their unsolved missing person case is heating up into a serial killer investigation; as a result Smith expertly brings Rand into the mix when he and Rory must partner together to try and solve it.

Smith truly knows how to weave a tale and capture an audience. Little by little these men become part of each other’s lives and you can feel the tension build as to where the murder mystery is going to lead.

Smith builds up Lover to be a thrilling suspense read and at its culmination a romance is born.

Upon first meeting the “killer” I could almost predict the twist… but oh how delightful it is. And speaking of twists, for those who’ve read Survivor – you’re in for a real treat with the true web of deceit in Taylor’s case. And I’m willing to bet there’s more where this came from.

Smith builds up Lover to be a thrilling suspense read and at its culmination a romance is born. Overall it’s a story about three men’s path to love, not about the sex. A little heavy on the end Smith does spice it up with some passion, a little joining and a happily-ever-after.

What I enjoy most about her A Survivor Story series is T.M. Smith’s knack for being able to weave together the storyline, setting a stage for the characters interaction and the plot. Lover is no exception as she introduces “Mannie” to readers… and Blair. Their attraction and emotions bleeding off the pages. Oh pleeeeease bring us their fantastic journey Ms. Smith!
Profile Image for Kendra T.
3,073 reviews39 followers
May 14, 2018
Wow. Every time I start to read a T.M. Smith book, I remember why I love her writing so much. I find myself completely captivated by the writing and the characters, and I get anxiety when I see things about to cause them trouble. I wasn't really invested in Trevor/Rory as a character in Survivor, but I definitely felt bad for him as we got to learn more about him and his true feelings for Frank as he fell in love with Taylor. We only briefly met Shannon and Rand in Survivor, but they ended up becoming great characters as well.

Rory and Rand had been working together on the Langford case, and now they (along with Rory's partner) are working on a possible serial killer/missing persons case. Shannon and Rory ended up getting together near the end of Survivor, though we don't know until Lover that they were together. The crossover of information of all the characters and how it fell into the timeline with Survivor was very well organized and written. Rand is completely infatuated with Rory and Shannon, but never considers interfering because they are together. Eventually, the three of them come to the realization that they should be together, and it was wonderful.

The only downsides for me to this book was that there weren't enough scenes with all three of them truly together, and that it took so long for them to finally get together. I was hoping to see them develop a lot of connection as a threesome, but it was mostly Rory and Shannon throughout the book. I can see why to a degree: the plot twist that threw them together finally was a really good one and the timing felt right. Additionally, there was so much mystery and backstory that we needed to have that it made sense it was later. I just wish, perhaps, that I could have more sexy times between the three.

Overall, FABULOUS story, amazing characters, and incredible writing that kept my emotions soaring between anxiety, excitement, and love. Looking forward to the next book!!! I hope we get a full, true resolution for all of the mystery story lines.

I am voluntarily reviewing an ARC received from the author
Profile Image for Rachel Emily.
4,466 reviews378 followers
April 16, 2018
This story takes place both before, during, and after the events of the first story, so I would definitely recommend having read Survivor before this one to familiarize yourself with the overall story and the characters, since we meet them in that story.

Lover revolves around 3 men - Shannon, who escaped from a horribly abusive relationship; Rory, an FBI agent who was working undercover in the last story; and Rand, a police officer now working on the case, too. Shannon and Rory are in a relationship and love each other - but when they start working and interacting with Rand, they each find that they are having feels towards him. Along with the romance there is a lot of plot and conflict, as they investigate a serial killer who has ties to Shannon.

The actual throuple part is a slow build - I don't think the three of them engage in anything together until around the 80% part of the story, but the emotion and conflict over Shannon and Rory wanting Rand, and then Rand being on the outside and unable to act on his growing emotions, is there from early on.

I thought that this story did a great job with the beginnings of a threesome relationship - they worry early on how they will act around each other, what rules or boundaries they should have, and stress the need to communicate. I do think that since they don't get together until towards the end of the story, I would have liked to have seen more of them in a committed throuple type of relationship - however, I bet that we will see more of these three in the final book of the series.

There was also some parts of the story that I felt like were telling and summarizing things that were happening, rather than letting us read about them. That'd probably be my only thing that kept me from giving this a 5 star rating. I'm really looking forward to the final book in the trilogy!

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Tina J.
1,338 reviews172 followers
April 13, 2018
> > Judging a Book by it's Cover < <
Collage style, with broad stroke painting effect.
Menage. Synopsis sounds like it will be every bit as good as Survivor was, if not better!

> > Looking Deeper < <
POV ~> Third-person

It amazes me, the improvements and differences that can be made between edits... normally I do not include a review of a BETA read-through but I wanted to provide others with a glimpse of how much this author takes notes into consideration to create a much-improved rendition to release to the masses. It's an amazingly complex procedure and I am humbled to have been able to read both editions prior to its release.

(FIRST PASS)
-------------- B*E*T*A - C*O*P*Y --------------
Read through and critiqued AS-IS, not final copy and subject to change, therefore I will not leave a review with details about the plot at this time.
~*~
BETA version's score: 4.075 / Rating: R
~*~
Likable characters, main and secondary.
The relationships build very slowly.
Dialogue is smart and strong.
The story flows well and pages were turning swiftly.
This series has a common theme with its climactic conflict and how it plays out. So expect a few similarities to SURVIVOR when reading LOVER. Book 3 will continue this theme.
The ending was a bit abrupt.

(SECOND PASS)
------------------ A*R*C - C*O*P*Y -----------------
Rand - Dallas PD Detective
Rory - Agent in FBI, BAU, Homeland Representative
Shannon - Survivor & Dance and Yoga Instructor

Rory met Shannon at a New Years party hosted by Frank and Taylor (see SURVIVOR). Rand had been working with Rory on a cold case and was now brought in on a new, disturbing case in Washington.
Though there was mutual attraction between the three men, Rory and Shannon were in a dedicated relationship and Rand respected those boundaries... until he didn't, sort of. Any hint of adding a third person into the relationship remained fantasy until much later in the story. In fact, it was only after the 75% mark that the couple decided they'd be willing to try to add Rand into their lives in that manner.
There were very minute, subtle changes made between the Beta and ARC copies and those changes created a richer, smoother plot that seemed to fill in holes and tie any odd loose ends throughout the story in a clearer and more precise way. Scenes were added to give the throuple more substance and the ending was beefed up and fleshed out to provide a wholly satisfying and solid conclusion.
This story follows the timeline set by Survivor. Events and characters that were prominent in book 1 are tightly wound in with book 2 and it strongly suggested that this trilogy be read in order.
If you've read SURVIVOR, you'll get a slight sense of deja vu with the "big conflict/climax" scene but this is intentional as all three books will have a similar running theme in that area. Expect FIGHTER (book 3) to also have this similarity.
I can't wait to read the next one!
.
Rating: [R] ~ Score: 4.45 ~ Stars: 4 (4.5, if I could!)
==========================
⭐ ⭐ **** Disclosure of Material: I received a copy of this book from the Author/Publisher with the hope that I would voluntarily leave unbiased and unsolicited feedback. I was not asked, encouraged, or required to leave a review - nor was I compensated in any way. I am posting this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, Part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising". ***** ⭐ ⭐
Profile Image for Beverly Southern Babes Book Blog.
434 reviews15 followers
April 27, 2018
Rory, Shannon and Rand...... where to start with these three. Well first off if you haven’t read Survivor you’re going to need to do you get to meet everyone from the beginning. You don’t have to but it would help understand a little more. TM Smith has just pulled me in and I never want to be let go.

Shannon, a man that has lost his way trying to move on from his past. Trying to make a better life for himself. Wants to find what his best friend has. Living life without regrets.

Rory, FBI agent trying to solve cases to make the world a better place. He has regretted some of his choices but he is who he is an isn’t scared to be himself.

Rand, Police Detective trying to get over what his ex did to him. Throwing himself into work, starting over in life.

These three together is just explosive. They all have what the other needs. They just don’t know it yet. They are sweet, caring, funny an oh so loveable. I can’t wait to see what’s next!!
Profile Image for Feel The Book.
1,739 reviews55 followers
January 13, 2020
Recensione a cura di Cassandra per Feel the Book

“Sopravvissuto”, il primo capitolo della serie Survivor, mi era piaciuto, ma ho trovato questo seguito più maturo e intrigante, sia per l’intreccio narrativo che per l’approfondimento dei personaggi.

L’autrice è brava nell’utilizzare un escamotage piuttosto particolare che ci permette di entrare in sintonia con i tre protagonisti, e riprendere le fila della trama del precedente romanzo. Un po’ ha rischiato, perché non a tutti piace rivivere storie già lette, anche se dal punto di vista di nuovi personaggi, eppure io l’ho trovato un metodo innovativo e coinvolgente e l’ho apprezzato molto. Così come ho apprezzato il fatto che ci abbia regalato uno scorcio del passato dei tre protagonisti, dandoci la possibilità di capire come siano arrivati al punto in cui si trovano.

Shannon, Rory e Rand non potrebbero essere più diversi l’uno dall’altro. Infatti tra il giovane ballerino e il più maturo ispettore di polizia c’è un grosso gap generazionale, tutti e tre hanno ambizioni e sogni diversi, senza contare il passato che ognuno di loro si porta alle spalle.

Al centro dell’indagine poliziesca, c’è proprio il tragico passato di Shannon che torna a tormentarlo dopo anni di relatività tranquillità. Il ragazzo è riuscito a sopravvivere all’inferno, ne ha parlato solo con il suo amico Taylor, ma sarà proprio in virtù di questa amicizia che conoscerà l’agente speciale Rory Landers.

Vi ricordate di Travis? L’estroverso, sexy e spumeggiante steward che aveva fatto più di un pensierino su Frank nel precedente romanzo? Beh, dimenticatelo, perché quando non finge di essere qualcun altro, Rory è un uomo completamente diverso: pacato, riflessivo e pronto a innamorarsi di nuovo, ma ignaro che il suo cuore possa addirittura dividersi tra due uomini.

Mi è piaciuto come l’autrice ha sviluppato l’evolversi della storia d’amore tra i tre protagonisti: l’immediata attrazione (forse un po’ troppo immediata da parte di Rand, almeno a mio modesto parere), il senso di colpa che li attanaglia, la paura di far soffrire qualcuno, il timore dell’opinione delle persone che li circondano e, infine, la nascita di un sentimento travolgente che non lascia altra opzione che seguire il loro cuore.

Per quanto noi lettrici di M/M siamo ormai abituate a leggerne in parecchi libri, i ménage a trois non sono così semplici come si può pensare. In una relazione del genere entrano in ballo svariate emozioni, come ad esempio la paura dell’esclusione e la gelosia. Devo dire che l’autrice ha trattato l’argomento in maniera delicata e molto intimista, cercando di entrare nella mente e nei cuori dei personaggi e riuscendoci bene. Le scene hot non sono molte, ma quelle che ci sono risultano coinvolgenti e mai volgari.

Infine Taylor e Frank: è stato un vero piacere incontrarli di nuovo e scoprire un altro tassello del puzzle riguardante l’uccisione dei genitori del ragazzo.

Un libro che mi è piaciuto molto e che apre le porte a un seguito – già si intravedono i due protagonisti e sono adorabili – che sono andata di corsa a leggermelo in inglese. Beh… che vi devo dire? Ne è valsa la pena.

Per una miglior comprensione della storia vi invito a leggere il primo volume della serie (qui la trama) prima di avvicinarvi ad “Amanti” di cui, naturalmente, vi consiglio la lettura.

Dimenticavo! Ciliegina sulla torta sono state l’ottima resa in italiano e la cover.

Editing a cura di Lilith.
Profile Image for Kirstin.
2,095 reviews19 followers
October 9, 2019
Omg. I loved this sweet story of 3 men figuring out life and love together. There was more than just their relationship to the story and I just loved how they all found each other, became friends, and then more.

Definitely a great story!
Profile Image for Sandra.
1,781 reviews50 followers
October 9, 2019
decisamente meglio il libro precedente.
i tre protagonisti sono bei personaggi ma non capisco perchè fare un menage e non una coppia, thriller deludente e risolto troppo in fretta
Profile Image for Dana.
Author 6 books23 followers
January 6, 2020
Rounding up from 4.5 stars.

I listened to the first book of this series and I definitely was intrigued by the secondary characters. I was happy that they got their own books and that they made it to audio. I wish I had had time to read it before, but alas time is short.

I love a good story between a committed threesome. Of course it doesn't quite start that way. Rory and Shannon had found themselves in a relationship after meeting each other through the main characters of book 1. Their relationship did feel pretty strong, but through both of their thoughts we could see that there was some interest in Rand for both of them. Neither of them were ready to confess those feelings for fear that it would hurt their own relationship. Rand started crushing on Rory, but Shannon soon became included for these feelings.

I would have preferred it if all three characters could have discussed what they wanted before an illicit kiss took place between Rory and Rand, but all things did work out. I liked the throuple, but I felt like their coming together didn't feel as natural as I would have liked. The big thrill of this book for me was the mystery and the action that took place as a result of Shannon's past. I might have liked it a little more than the romance itself.

The narration was great as always. Nick J Russo is one of my favorites.
Profile Image for Georgiana.
683 reviews12 followers
June 19, 2019
~AUDIO REVIEW~

"They’d been dancing around each other for months"

This beautiful, emotional, heartfelt, and at times heart wrenching story revolves around three men, Shannon, Rory and Rand. Shannon and Rory are an established couple when Rand comes along. The three men have different personalities, but together they are better men.

I’ve just started getting into MMM relationships and I have to say this one was different than the few I have read/listened to in a great way. Lover is a slow dance between Shannon/Rory and Rand, and I LOVED it.

I really liked the little side romance with Connie and Claire.

I recommend reading the first book in the series before this one. It will be well worth it!

Nick J. Russo does another wonderful job. I loved Rands voice, I could listen to him all day long. Nick J. Russo does a great job with the emotional parts and giving each character a different tone bring them to life. His voice is smooth, clear, and pleasant to listen to.
Profile Image for Natosha Wilson.
1,274 reviews15 followers
May 9, 2018
Wow, I honestly did not think that TM Smith could make Book two better then the first but boy was I wrong. I really liked the fact that TM Smith kept with all the original characters from book one even though the main characters in book one is now supporting characters in book two. It made the book so much better because not only did we get a new story about some supporting characters from book one but we also got to check in with Frank and Taylor and got some more information about how their relationship is coming along.

This book revolves around Rand, Rory, and Shannon. Each of these men were connected to Frank and Taylor in some way or another. Shannon was Taylor’s best friend. Taylor is extremely protective of Shannon because both Taylor and Shannon had things in their past that made their friendship that much stronger. After the abuse that Shannon went through with his ex, Shannon does not trust easily. So the fact that Shannon has trusted Taylor and vice versa, they now have a close life long friendship. So much so that Taylor has invested in Shannon’s future and helping Shannon to secure his dreams of owning a dance studio. So when Taylor introduces Shannon to Rory, and sparks truly fly between them, Shannon decides to see where things can go between them.

But that does not mean that he is going to trust Rory with his past. Even though these two have become close and continue to become closer as time goes on, Shannon is not comfortable enough with sharing all the horrific things that he endured.

Rory is the agent that taled Frank in book one. Though things did not end well with Frank and Rory, somehow or another a tenacious friendship developed between Rory, Frank, and Taylor. So when Taylor trusted Rory enough to introduce him to Shannon, he knew that a friendship was definitely possible between himself, Taylor, and Frank.

Then there is Rand. Rand is also introduced through Frank and eventually Taylor. He was the cold case investigator that helped to discover what was going on in book one. Of course Rand knows who Rory is since they worked together on Taylor’s case. But the fact that both men was attracted to other, it definitely puts a kink in Rory and Shannon's relationship no one seen coming. Especially after Rand and Shannon meet and the attraction is there between them as well.

But this is an impossible situation since three cannot work in a relationship? Or is it?

This was truly an incredible read. Just like book one there are twist and turns that you do not see coming and just makes this book that much better. I truly enjoyed this read and I hope that there will be another one. Hopefully it will be about Junior and Blair because I believe there is a story there as well. Regardless even if there isn’t, this was an incredible read.

Was given this galley copy for free for an open and honest review
Profile Image for Lisa1269.
315 reviews4 followers
April 20, 2018
“The way each of them loved might be different, but it was no less honest or pure; it was the glue that held them together.”
I really enjoyed this book, the way Shannon, Rory and Rand came together felt so natural to me, like they were *supposed* to find each other. With the first few chapters offering readers a glimpse of the journey that brought these three men to the point where their lives intersected, I particularly liked that the introduction of Rand to the relationship wasn’t because there was something lacking between Shannon and Rory; rather, it was their chemistry that drew them together and the balance between them that convinced me that they’re supposed to stay that way. I could practically feel the tension crackling between Rand and Rory as they struggled with their growing attraction and wanted to wrap Shannon up in a hug as he warred with his own feelings. Shannon was such an intriguing mix of strength and vulnerability that he stole my heart and I could completely empathize with Rory & Rand’s protective instincts as the investigation progressed. It was also great to get a chance to catch up with Taylor and Frank from Survivor, I love that TM Smith consistently builds families brought together by choice and bound together with unconditional love.
Profile Image for R.
2,115 reviews
April 10, 2018
This is the second book in the Survivor series. To get the full understanding of the dynamics between the large cast of characters, I recommend reading Survivor first.

All the people central to this story we met in the first book. Shannon the cute blonde twink, Rory the undercover FBI agent, and Rand the cold case detective.

Everything has settled down for our characters. Shannon and Rory have started a relationship. Rand is on the outside, watching and wanting them both. Suddenly they are on the trail of a serial killer. Shannons past comes back with a vengeance, throwing the three men together. When one of them is severely injured, they realize that maybe they are meant to be together.

Very likable supporting characters and a good story line make this a well done romance/thriller.

Review Copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads.
Profile Image for Ashley Carr, LSoR.
4,997 reviews62 followers
April 23, 2018
I would recommend reading the first book, Survivor, to fully understand the relationships between the characters in this story. The story was heart wrenching. Rory, Rand and Shannon have complicated pasts, but they find solace in each other. Rory and Shannon are in an exclusive relationship and Rand is on the periphery. Rory and Rand are working together on a cold case. Rand respects the relationship Rory has with Shannon, but the chemistry the developing between the three is undeniable.

This story overall is filled with drama and is emotionally draining, but I love it. I’m really looking forward to the third book in the trilogy!!

** I voluntarily read an ARC of this book in exchange for an honest review **
Profile Image for Tina J.
1,338 reviews172 followers
September 9, 2018
Solid Story and Strong Narration
First, I'd read this story as a beta reader. Later, I read it once it was released. Now, I've had the opportunity to listen to the narrated version. Nick J Russo manages to bring a story to life with an enunciation and pace that is an auditory delight. I did note that in one part a character name was incorrectly used but that's an editing issue. Also, there were two spots where the narrator slipped his character. Other than that, I truly enjoyed the emotions portrayed.
922 reviews7 followers
April 15, 2018
Well where to start with this. I loved it. I feel like I should leave it there really.
But I cant . I'm going to start with saying that you need to start by reading 'survivor'. The characters in 'lover' are all introduced in that book and it does help in the reading knowing the back story. Also the timelines are the same at the start of the book.
I loved the humour that was apparent from the start of this book. The relationships between the three main characters was slow to develop a lot of the book was a couple and one looking in from the side.
The supporting characters are fantastic and really contribute to the dynamic of this book. I love Connie and Claire. Connie is hilarious in this book and her relationship with Rory and Rand is priceless in places.
I really enjoyed the slow build to the triad relationship. It's hinted at a few times in the book but it took a while for it to happen.
I like this book still has a proportion of it dedicated to the solving of crime and that it tried to lead you one but then dragged you another for the culprit.
I think this is a really well written book that is a real page turner as you want to constantly know what is happening next. I do think the ending was rather abrupt though. But I have heard that there is going to be another book in this series so I can't wait for that to see what happens next.
I received this book in return for a honest review.
5,704 reviews39 followers
January 9, 2020
this was a rollercoaster of emotions.. i was never sure what i would feel next or what would happen. i enjoyed the characters and their story.. i enjoyed being part of their lives.. it was really good!
Profile Image for Laurie.
172 reviews26 followers
May 15, 2018
I will say from the start, you need to read book one, Survivor before reading this one. It is the start of their story. And wow, the things Shannon went through may be triggers for some. If they’re not, then this is an emotional read, well worth the rollercoaster ride you will take.

This is an incredible read. You watch the slow buildup of the relationship between the three of them. Rory and Shannon are an established couple when Rand comes along. For Rory and Shannon, there are conflicted emotions that have them both longing for and pushing away the third person. As much as Rand has an interest in both Rory and Shannon, he would never want to do something that broke them up.

All of this is set against the backdrop of Rory and Rand solving a cold case together. Much more would be spoilers, which I don’t want to do. I will say that the author has done a masterful job of blending all the elements here into a suspenseful and enjoyable story. I’m looking forward to the next book.
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