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I Spy #2
I Spy Something Wicked
It's All Hallow's Eve and Mark Hardwicke's past has come back to haunt him. The Old Man needs Mark to go on one last mission to the wild, lonely hills of Afghanistan -- a mission Mark knows he can't survive. Even if he does make it back, Stephen has made it very clear Mark is out of second chances. Should Mark place his lover and his own happiness before duty? Especially when deep down Mark knows he doesn't deserve a happy ending? (Previously released through Loose Id Publishing.)
50 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 1, 2011
14 people are currently reading
405 people want to read
About the author
Josh Lanyon
217 books5,405 followersAuthor of 100+ titles of Gay Mystery and M/M Romance, Josh Lanyon has built her literary legacy on twisty mystery, kickass adventure, and unapologetic man-on-man romance.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
Her work has been translated into twelve languages. The FBI thriller Fair Game was the first Male/Male title to be published by Italy’s Harlequin Mondadori and Stranger on the Shore (Harper Collins Italia) was the first M/M title to be published in print. In 2016 Fatal Shadows placed #5 in Japan’s annual Boy Love novel list (the first and only title by a foreign author to place on the list). The Adrien English series was awarded the All-Time Favorite Couple by the Goodreads M/M Romance Group. In 2019, Fatal Shadows became the first LGBTQ mobile game created by Moments: Choose Your Story.
She’s an EPIC Award winner, a four-time Lambda Literary Award finalist (twice for Gay Mystery), an Edgar nominee, and the first ever recipient of the Goodreads All Time Favorite M/M Author award.
Josh is married and lives in Southern California with her irascible husband, two adorable dogs, a small garden, and an ever-expanding library of vintage mystery destined to eventually crush them all beneath its weight.
Find other Josh Lanyon titles at www.joshlanyon.com
Follow Josh on Twitter, Facebook, and Goodreads.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 125 reviews
October 10, 2014
4.5 stars****Review completed February 17, 2013
Blurred vision…come to think of it, I guess it's more than blurred vision. Mark, take a reality check!
I Spy Something Wicked is the follow-up to I Spy Something Bloody. It's almost time for Halloween and happily retired British ex spy, Mark Hardwicke, is meeting his former teammate, Malik, in an old and abandoned building.
The Old Man needs his help. He wants Mark to go back to Afghanistan and use his influence with Pashtun tribal leaders in Helmand to support British and NATO forces against the Taliban in Operation Sword Strike. The Old Man wants him to accomplish a black op. Mark is shocked when he knows what they expect of him. Though since there is a price on his head he can't go back to Afghanistan. Ever.
Malik is quite good at making Mark feel guilty about the Old Man's situation. Talk about disgrace, scandal and the ruin of a brilliant career. Mark didn't want that for his former boss but on the other hand, he'd promised Stephen he wouldn't go back into the field. As a matter of fact, he didn't want to ruin his second chance at love with Stephen. He was done…or wasn't he?
Even though he let you walk away unscathed you don't owe him anything at all, Mark. I couldn't agree more!
Malik is giving Mark forty-eight hours to make a decision, however, after leaving the building, Mark is not ready yet to confront Stephen. This whole screwed up situation would require some little explaining to Stephen, that was bloody sure. Also, Mark needed to explain it to himself because he was convinced that he was done with his former job. After all, he was happy with his civilian life, wasn't he?
Dear Mark,
I gotta give it to you straight, dude. With your actions you did exceed my tolerance limit and you gotta know that I didn't say anything against you in I Spy Something Bloody. I bloody liked you and I felt some kind of empathy and compassion for you. I did cut you some slack after all. But now I feel like I'm done with you. OMG, I couldn't believe it. I mean didn't we have the (almost) same situation in I Spy Something Wicked? Didn't we learn something? It's like going round and round over and over again. While I was forbearing with you in the prequel, I honestly don't give a f@@@ how you feel right now. Ugh. Dude, you are so good at drowning in self-pity.
Why would it occur to you to go back? Although I have to tell you that I didn't know how valuable your word of honor was in the first place, I know that you promised Stephen you wouldn't go back; you said you quit your job. Dunno what's so difficult to understand. Do I have to spell it for you…you…moron?! There's no getting round it to point out what a pathetic coward you are. Not having the courage to talk with Stephen because you knew it wouldn't go over well…that was so disappointing.
And we all know that you lost your edge. Let's face it, Mark, you would come back in a coffin because you are not fit for your old job anymore. You got sloppy. Geez, you rendered me speechless and furious. Nah, just shut it coz I'm talking now! *fumes*
Oh please, spare me. Is this saying your pitiable excuse? Yep, I know there is more to come but still.
Yeah, Stephen is so generous and you are always so ready to take what you need.
Honestly, I thought that you have learned an important lesson in the prequel and I thought you would get past your fear of not being worthy of all this. Yes, all this is called love and affection. Trust, understanding, and concession. Geezus, sometimes you don't know s@it and you just fall back into old patterns. The selfish and needy young man who thinks he has the right to do so as he sees fit. There's a little problem though. A relationship includes two equal partners. They talk to each other, they don't hold back for Pete's sake! They are honest. Oh, and they don't lie by omission either only because they are afraid to talk about it. It's called give and take for Pete's sake.
But again, I had to wonder when you would step back…just once. It's about damn time that you dial it down. You know you are not the center of the universe. Let me tell you something, I adore Stephen. He has the patience of a saint and I've had my moments where I thought he'd deserve better than you. Yup, I have a little crush on Stephen. An older hottie who is wise, quiet, mature and generous. In fact, he is someone who gives love without holding back. Stephen is there for you, and he cares deeply for you. Sheesh, the guy loves you and you are considering breaking your word. Think. Again. I. Mean. It. Think. Again. Holy crap! Did I tell you already that I'm angry with you?
My state of mind when I think of you…says all, huh?
And this one…
My feelings for Stephen, however, are steadfast and strong…Stephen, take me, take me! Too bad you're gay. *pouts*
Well, in case you missed something essential here, I just wanted to point out that I loved I Spy Something Wicked despite Mark being a coward. It's an intense, emotional, fierce, and fabulous little read. Needless to say it packs a punch, and I think that Lanyon is one of the best at telling engaging short stories that will grab you from the get-go. Bloody brilliant. I want more.
Blurred vision…come to think of it, I guess it's more than blurred vision. Mark, take a reality check!
I Spy Something Wicked is the follow-up to I Spy Something Bloody. It's almost time for Halloween and happily retired British ex spy, Mark Hardwicke, is meeting his former teammate, Malik, in an old and abandoned building.
In the early part of the last century, it had operated as a funhouse. Now it looked like a haunted house. That was appropriate since I was there to meet a ghost.
The Old Man needs his help. He wants Mark to go back to Afghanistan and use his influence with Pashtun tribal leaders in Helmand to support British and NATO forces against the Taliban in Operation Sword Strike. The Old Man wants him to accomplish a black op. Mark is shocked when he knows what they expect of him. Though since there is a price on his head he can't go back to Afghanistan. Ever.
I relaxed a fraction. "Sorry. I'm no longer in the help business."
Malik is quite good at making Mark feel guilty about the Old Man's situation. Talk about disgrace, scandal and the ruin of a brilliant career. Mark didn't want that for his former boss but on the other hand, he'd promised Stephen he wouldn't go back into the field. As a matter of fact, he didn't want to ruin his second chance at love with Stephen. He was done…or wasn't he?
"I don't owe him fuck."
Even though he let you walk away unscathed you don't owe him anything at all, Mark. I couldn't agree more!
Malik is giving Mark forty-eight hours to make a decision, however, after leaving the building, Mark is not ready yet to confront Stephen. This whole screwed up situation would require some little explaining to Stephen, that was bloody sure. Also, Mark needed to explain it to himself because he was convinced that he was done with his former job. After all, he was happy with his civilian life, wasn't he?
"I'm happy. The happiest I can remember. I wish--"
I wish it could have lasted forever.
What was it Dickens said? An idea, like a ghost, must be spoken to a little before it will explain itself.
Dear Mark,
I gotta give it to you straight, dude. With your actions you did exceed my tolerance limit and you gotta know that I didn't say anything against you in I Spy Something Bloody. I bloody liked you and I felt some kind of empathy and compassion for you. I did cut you some slack after all. But now I feel like I'm done with you. OMG, I couldn't believe it. I mean didn't we have the (almost) same situation in I Spy Something Wicked? Didn't we learn something? It's like going round and round over and over again. While I was forbearing with you in the prequel, I honestly don't give a f@@@ how you feel right now. Ugh. Dude, you are so good at drowning in self-pity.
Why would it occur to you to go back? Although I have to tell you that I didn't know how valuable your word of honor was in the first place, I know that you promised Stephen you wouldn't go back; you said you quit your job. Dunno what's so difficult to understand. Do I have to spell it for you…you…moron?! There's no getting round it to point out what a pathetic coward you are. Not having the courage to talk with Stephen because you knew it wouldn't go over well…that was so disappointing.
It didn't matter how hard I'd worked to prove myself over the last five months. Two years of insecurity and resentment lingered as was proved by this very conversation
And we all know that you lost your edge. Let's face it, Mark, you would come back in a coffin because you are not fit for your old job anymore. You got sloppy. Geez, you rendered me speechless and furious. Nah, just shut it coz I'm talking now! *fumes*
In the mountains of Afghanistan they have a saying: A wolf cannot outrun its shadow.
Oh please, spare me. Is this saying your pitiable excuse? Yep, I know there is more to come but still.
In the soft autumn darkness we came together, arms sliding around each other, holding each other close, entwined. The ghostly music tailed off, and there was nothing to hear but the slide and rustle of sheets and our rough breathing.
"I need you," I said. "I need you so much."
"You just take what you need," he urged me in that sexy whisper.
Yeah, Stephen is so generous and you are always so ready to take what you need.
Honestly, I thought that you have learned an important lesson in the prequel and I thought you would get past your fear of not being worthy of all this. Yes, all this is called love and affection. Trust, understanding, and concession. Geezus, sometimes you don't know s@it and you just fall back into old patterns. The selfish and needy young man who thinks he has the right to do so as he sees fit. There's a little problem though. A relationship includes two equal partners. They talk to each other, they don't hold back for Pete's sake! They are honest. Oh, and they don't lie by omission either only because they are afraid to talk about it. It's called give and take for Pete's sake.
But again, I had to wonder when you would step back…just once. It's about damn time that you dial it down. You know you are not the center of the universe. Let me tell you something, I adore Stephen. He has the patience of a saint and I've had my moments where I thought he'd deserve better than you. Yup, I have a little crush on Stephen. An older hottie who is wise, quiet, mature and generous. In fact, he is someone who gives love without holding back. Stephen is there for you, and he cares deeply for you. Sheesh, the guy loves you and you are considering breaking your word. Think. Again. I. Mean. It. Think. Again. Holy crap! Did I tell you already that I'm angry with you?
My state of mind when I think of you…says all, huh?
And this one…
My feelings for Stephen, however, are steadfast and strong…Stephen, take me, take me! Too bad you're gay. *pouts*
Well, in case you missed something essential here, I just wanted to point out that I loved I Spy Something Wicked despite Mark being a coward. It's an intense, emotional, fierce, and fabulous little read. Needless to say it packs a punch, and I think that Lanyon is one of the best at telling engaging short stories that will grab you from the get-go. Bloody brilliant. I want more.
"Whatever you're thinking, whatever you've convinced yourself of, no. You're not here on sufferance. I love you. I love you so much it scares me. It's not reasonable to care this much for anyone, but…I do.(…) --Stephen
September 18, 2016
Written November 11, 2014
4.2 Stars - Short, heartbreaking and captivating good.
I couldn't let go... the night went on.
Book #2
I listened to the audiobook edition with all three novellas in the "I Spy" series written by Josh Lanyon.
The complete series edition In From The Cold (I Spy, #1-3) is an seven hours long audio narrated very well, with a fitting voice, by a new narrator for me: Mr Alexander J. Masters. I like his way of telling me this M/M relationship story more and more fo every audio-hours. As well as Mr Lanyoun's brilliant writing of course.
A second very heartbreaking and poignant shorty
This second installment was even shorter (1:45 hrs ~ 50 pages) but gee this story was like a hard slap in the face. I listened nervously in middle of the night with the sound of the very lowest volume.
***********************************************
When we first met these men was the British spy, Mark Hardwicke after two long years in field once again visiting his ex-lover, the American Dr. Stephen Thorpe in hopes of to be invited to stay. To stay forever.
Now are we back and it has been some time and Mark really enjoy his new ordinary steady "boyfriend" life in the southern U.S. Then is he asked to do a spy favour to his former British employer...in the dangerous war field...in Afghanistan.
I Spy Someting Wicked is a After Spy Life Story about trust and your place in life. It is also about not running, the wrong way, as soon as the wolf cry again. What's the haves and favors? Who are most important and what? It is possible to just say no?
This brittle relationship is still so very easy to shake. I was a bit angry with Mark this time and I was quite scared it all should turn out in a really bad way.
Mr Lanyon's characters are usually, in my opinion, quite ordinary human males with fairly normal thoughts and feelings. They have the ability to really shake me as well. So also this time. He can make even a very short story to vibrate by strong emotions. Some dialogues are quite powerful, but still simple with small words, and in the end is it so incredibly intense. ~ It all feels pretty authentic and close to reality. Painfully close sometimes.
***********************************************
I enjoyed this second one even more than the first part: #1 - I Spy Something Bloody (3.8 stars)
On to the next one, #3 - I Spy Something Christmas (my review)
I LIKE - **nodding**: a lot of 'manly' feelings
4.2 Stars - Short, heartbreaking and captivating good.
I couldn't let go... the night went on.
Book #2
I listened to the audiobook edition with all three novellas in the "I Spy" series written by Josh Lanyon.
The complete series edition In From The Cold (I Spy, #1-3) is an seven hours long audio narrated very well, with a fitting voice, by a new narrator for me: Mr Alexander J. Masters. I like his way of telling me this M/M relationship story more and more fo every audio-hours. As well as Mr Lanyoun's brilliant writing of course.
A second very heartbreaking and poignant shorty
This second installment was even shorter (1:45 hrs ~ 50 pages) but gee this story was like a hard slap in the face. I listened nervously in middle of the night with the sound of the very lowest volume.
***********************************************
When we first met these men was the British spy, Mark Hardwicke after two long years in field once again visiting his ex-lover, the American Dr. Stephen Thorpe in hopes of to be invited to stay. To stay forever.
Now are we back and it has been some time and Mark really enjoy his new ordinary steady "boyfriend" life in the southern U.S. Then is he asked to do a spy favour to his former British employer...in the dangerous war field...in Afghanistan.
I Spy Someting Wicked is a After Spy Life Story about trust and your place in life. It is also about not running, the wrong way, as soon as the wolf cry again. What's the haves and favors? Who are most important and what? It is possible to just say no?
This brittle relationship is still so very easy to shake. I was a bit angry with Mark this time and I was quite scared it all should turn out in a really bad way.
Mr Lanyon's characters are usually, in my opinion, quite ordinary human males with fairly normal thoughts and feelings. They have the ability to really shake me as well. So also this time. He can make even a very short story to vibrate by strong emotions. Some dialogues are quite powerful, but still simple with small words, and in the end is it so incredibly intense. ~ It all feels pretty authentic and close to reality. Painfully close sometimes.
***********************************************
I enjoyed this second one even more than the first part: #1 - I Spy Something Bloody (3.8 stars)
On to the next one, #3 - I Spy Something Christmas (my review)
I LIKE - **nodding**: a lot of 'manly' feelings
January 4, 2022
The second book in the series.
The one where Mark breaks is promise and wants to leave Stephen again for a mission.
Why does that not surprise me?
Stephen is great, patient and caring as always.
Mark is just Mark. Oh well.
4 stars!
The one where Mark breaks is promise and wants to leave Stephen again for a mission.
Why does that not surprise me?
Stephen is great, patient and caring as always.
Mark is just Mark. Oh well.
4 stars!
March 22, 2017
*3.5 stars*
I liked this a little less than the first book but it was still good. I like this couple a lot.
I liked this a little less than the first book but it was still good. I like this couple a lot.
February 19, 2017
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
This book was even shorter than the first one and yet it did not feel this way. Less "real" action this time, but the underlying tension and all these feelings kept my eyes glued to my Kindle and I couldn't have loved these guys more.
Mark, hard-ass spy and yet full of self-doubt, believing that he does not deserve to be happy, is torn between his sense of duty and love and I just wanted to wrap him in a bubble to keep him safe. But I loved Stephen for his protectiveness of his spy and his "mature" behavior and reaction at the end. Seems like I would be developing a penchant for silver foxes.Well, due to my own age, I probably should... ;-)
Kudos, Ms. Lanyon, for making me love a short story so much. On to the last one!
This book was even shorter than the first one and yet it did not feel this way. Less "real" action this time, but the underlying tension and all these feelings kept my eyes glued to my Kindle and I couldn't have loved these guys more.
Mark, hard-ass spy and yet full of self-doubt, believing that he does not deserve to be happy, is torn between his sense of duty and love and I just wanted to wrap him in a bubble to keep him safe. But I loved Stephen for his protectiveness of his spy and his "mature" behavior and reaction at the end. Seems like I would be developing a penchant for silver foxes.Well, due to my own age, I probably should... ;-)
Kudos, Ms. Lanyon, for making me love a short story so much. On to the last one!
January 23, 2025
2nd re-read January 2025
4.5 stars
4.5 stars
October 27, 2012
3.5 stars. Very enjoyable short story. Unexpectedly quiet and domestic for a spy tale. Now I have to read the first book...
Wth is up with that cover though? It bears no resemblance to the contents. And a clown! *shivers* O.o
Wth is up with that cover though? It bears no resemblance to the contents. And a clown! *shivers* O.o
September 23, 2015
Another enjoyable novella about Stephen and Mark. This one had me guessing if he'd stay or go, right to the very end!
August 7, 2021
Mark is 5 months back with Stephen and is faced with a Sophie's choice situation. Love or loyalty?
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Funny thing, that, because I had never liked being held when I slept, but with Stephen there was something comforting about curling up against him. I liked his arms wrapped around me, liked the heat of him all down my back, the warm breath stirring the hair at the nape of my neck. I loved him. That made all the difference.Lanyon writes so subtly and simply about this pivotal decision and in the end it really is that simple - "I loved him. That made all the difference."
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May 24, 2012
And for the second time in this series, I wasn't expecting this story. And I loved it.
I liked every nuance of Mark and Stephen's relationship. Mark is the one who gets into trouble, who has much more to do to be a better partner for Stephen, but even Stephen has to move toward Mark to make their love work.
We get to see all the process of the difficult choice Mark has to make between his old and his new life, because he has to face the person he was, acknowledge what has remained the same and what has changed, and decide what he wants for his future. This book made me think a lot about the debts of gratitude people think they own to someone else and the damage they can do to their life and those they love. At the beginning Mark tries to avoid to take a stand, placing the decision on Stephen's lap. In his mind, this is fair, because it's a way to show Stephen he cares for him, but on the other hand it's also a way to avoid responsibility. Stephen's frustration emerges from the page in his gestures and expressions, but through Mark's eyes, colored by his affection, we see Stephen's generosity and solidity. Mark is clearly is biggest weakness, the one who could hurt him - and did hurt him - but what they have together is too precious and Stephen is ready to risk everything to show Mark he really cares, how deeply he loves him.
I think this couple is one of the most interesting couples in Josh Lanyon's books and even if the two books in this series are not very long, they manage to tell the whole ark of the relationship between these two men. They are from different countries, from different backgrounds, they have jobs with opposite aims, there's a considerable age-gap, but there wasn't a moment when I thought they weren't meant for each other.
I liked every nuance of Mark and Stephen's relationship. Mark is the one who gets into trouble, who has much more to do to be a better partner for Stephen, but even Stephen has to move toward Mark to make their love work.
We get to see all the process of the difficult choice Mark has to make between his old and his new life, because he has to face the person he was, acknowledge what has remained the same and what has changed, and decide what he wants for his future. This book made me think a lot about the debts of gratitude people think they own to someone else and the damage they can do to their life and those they love. At the beginning Mark tries to avoid to take a stand, placing the decision on Stephen's lap. In his mind, this is fair, because it's a way to show Stephen he cares for him, but on the other hand it's also a way to avoid responsibility. Stephen's frustration emerges from the page in his gestures and expressions, but through Mark's eyes, colored by his affection, we see Stephen's generosity and solidity. Mark is clearly is biggest weakness, the one who could hurt him - and did hurt him - but what they have together is too precious and Stephen is ready to risk everything to show Mark he really cares, how deeply he loves him.
I think this couple is one of the most interesting couples in Josh Lanyon's books and even if the two books in this series are not very long, they manage to tell the whole ark of the relationship between these two men. They are from different countries, from different backgrounds, they have jobs with opposite aims, there's a considerable age-gap, but there wasn't a moment when I thought they weren't meant for each other.
April 27, 2015
Well, this one was just as angsty as the first! But it still totally worked for me. I love watching these two figure out how to live their lives together. I'm starting the last book now and know I'll be sad when it is over.
August 30, 2016
Well damn I loved this one too! I honestly could not believe what Mark was considering. No way could it have ended well. I loved Stephens reactions and his pleas and his taking charge at the end. And I absolutely loved how badass Mark is.
October 20, 2015
3.5 stars - A little glimpse into Mark and Stephen's life as a couple. Definitely not a stand alone. I wanted to slap Mark a few times; he's really clueless sometimes. But I'm glad things worked out in the end. (that cover is creeping me out!)
November 5, 2017
Alexander Masters' narration is excellent.
September 7, 2014
I have a whole new admiration for Stephen after reading this one!
January 5, 2013
Mark and Stephen have quickly become one of my favorite Lanyon couples.
Loved the Dickens quote "Life is made of ever so many partings welded together"
Loved the Dickens quote "Life is made of ever so many partings welded together"
September 6, 2016
3,6 stars
July 15, 2014
***3.4 stars***
It was not as good as the first book, in my opinion. But I still enjoyed it.
It was not as good as the first book, in my opinion. But I still enjoyed it.
December 2, 2018
Wow. I am so utterly pleased with the outcome of this but admit I was not sure at all it was going to go that way.
NOT SURE AT ALL!
What an emotional draining excellent installment to this trilogy.
On to the last, tis' the Season after all!
NOT SURE AT ALL!
What an emotional draining excellent installment to this trilogy.
On to the last, tis' the Season after all!
March 10, 2023
A nice follow up.
Enjoyable novella with likeable characters
Enjoyable novella with likeable characters
December 30, 2012
3.0 Stars
It's All Hallow's Eve and Mark Hardwicke's past has come back to haunt him ... again. The Old Man comes calling; he needs Mark to go on one last mission to Afghanistan. The problem is two-fold: Mark's chances of surviving the mission are slim to none; and, Mark had promised Stephen that he was home to stay. Stephen has made it very clear that Mark is out of second chances. Yet, Mark traverses the path of deciding whether he should place his lover and his own happiness before duty.
I love this series and dove straight into this book after finishing I Spy Something Bloody. Once again, Stephen and Mark's tale is an angst-filled, anxiety-ridden read. But this one pissed me off. Great book but I was so mad at Mark for even considering going back to Afghanistan. What about desperately wanting another chance with Stephen and promising to spend the rest of his life making it worth his while? WTF? I was pissed because Iwould have liked expected Mark to place Stephen first for once. But no! It didn't mean diddly squat to me that Mark "didn't want to go." BFD. I didn't care if he was choosing himself, duty, or the Old Man. The point was he DIDN'T choose Stephen. Hence, my emotional distress resulting in the foregoing rant. The cover, though, is wicked cool.
Bottom line: an aggravating (but entertaining) installment in an awesome series.
It's All Hallow's Eve and Mark Hardwicke's past has come back to haunt him ... again. The Old Man comes calling; he needs Mark to go on one last mission to Afghanistan. The problem is two-fold: Mark's chances of surviving the mission are slim to none; and, Mark had promised Stephen that he was home to stay. Stephen has made it very clear that Mark is out of second chances. Yet, Mark traverses the path of deciding whether he should place his lover and his own happiness before duty.
I love this series and dove straight into this book after finishing I Spy Something Bloody. Once again, Stephen and Mark's tale is an angst-filled, anxiety-ridden read. But this one pissed me off. Great book but I was so mad at Mark for even considering going back to Afghanistan. What about desperately wanting another chance with Stephen and promising to spend the rest of his life making it worth his while? WTF? I was pissed because I
Bottom line: an aggravating (but entertaining) installment in an awesome series.
February 12, 2014
Strange little story. I liked it (enough for 3 stars) but it kind of left me wondering, both regarding the emotional level and status of things between the pair.
Perhaps I was in a funky mood not appropriate for this book. It kept me interested and reading till the end but I was lacking emotional connection towards the characters, which for me is vital to loving a book.
Perhaps I was in a funky mood not appropriate for this book. It kept me interested and reading till the end but I was lacking emotional connection towards the characters, which for me is vital to loving a book.
June 8, 2018
Overall book rating: 4
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 1 ( Sorry, I hate it)
Because I’m lazy I’m just gonna review all three books in one.
Again, I enjoyed the different feel to this story. Never a dull moment.
I liked Mark. I liked how he’s “broken” on the inside even if he himself doesn’t really grasp that. He F*&ks up a LOT! But, you kinda want to forgive him eventually. Knowing where he’s coming from.
Steven is a character that you can’t help but like. He’s dependable and steady and he keeps our Mark’s feet on the ground when Mark allows him to. I liked that Steven isn’t a push over. He doesn’t just roll over and give in, Mark has to fight for what he wants and that worked for me.
It’s realistic in the relationship. Interesting in the different “work” aspects.
My one complaint. Really a “old” one, it’s too short. Rather that seeing my complaint as a negative thing, think of it this way, if it isn’t GOOD I won’t want more right?
Audio Book: N/A
Book Cover: 1 ( Sorry, I hate it)
Because I’m lazy I’m just gonna review all three books in one.
Again, I enjoyed the different feel to this story. Never a dull moment.
I liked Mark. I liked how he’s “broken” on the inside even if he himself doesn’t really grasp that. He F*&ks up a LOT! But, you kinda want to forgive him eventually. Knowing where he’s coming from.
Steven is a character that you can’t help but like. He’s dependable and steady and he keeps our Mark’s feet on the ground when Mark allows him to. I liked that Steven isn’t a push over. He doesn’t just roll over and give in, Mark has to fight for what he wants and that worked for me.
It’s realistic in the relationship. Interesting in the different “work” aspects.
My one complaint. Really a “old” one, it’s too short. Rather that seeing my complaint as a negative thing, think of it this way, if it isn’t GOOD I won’t want more right?
December 29, 2012
A short story, I read this immediately after the previous so they gel into one smoothly. It's set a few months later with Mark attempting to settle into civilian live and only covers two days though it feels longer with all the introspection.
It's nice to see his doubts and how idealised Stephen is in his eyes, there's hints of Stephen's frustrations though he shows remarkable restraint. Stephen tries to be supportive though he hates the 'inevitable' while Mark is secretly begging for him to demand he stay and you know is he did Mark would likely fight it.
From reading this I see them growing as a couple, the situation would open their eyes and bind them stronger. Well worth reading if you like the feel of the first book. There's a nice warm glow about the end scene.
It's nice to see his doubts and how idealised Stephen is in his eyes, there's hints of Stephen's frustrations though he shows remarkable restraint. Stephen tries to be supportive though he hates the 'inevitable' while Mark is secretly begging for him to demand he stay and you know is he did Mark would likely fight it.
From reading this I see them growing as a couple, the situation would open their eyes and bind them stronger. Well worth reading if you like the feel of the first book. There's a nice warm glow about the end scene.
December 6, 2016
While I do like this couple, they don't hold the appeal of other Josh Lanyon couples for me.
Maybe its the age gap or maybe its the Spy thing, but I find I'm glad these are actually shorter rather than longer lol.
My main thoughts while reading this were how much I wanted to smack Mark. I couldn't believe he was going to be so stupid and risk everything, but of course by the end I started to understand his thinking. I'm glad he has Stephen around to save him from himself lol.
A little more than a 3 but again still not the 4 star I've come to expect from this author.
ETA Nothing new to add. Enjoyable read still. These two could grow on me given time I think.
Maybe its the age gap or maybe its the Spy thing, but I find I'm glad these are actually shorter rather than longer lol.
My main thoughts while reading this were how much I wanted to smack Mark. I couldn't believe he was going to be so stupid and risk everything, but of course by the end I started to understand his thinking. I'm glad he has Stephen around to save him from himself lol.
A little more than a 3 but again still not the 4 star I've come to expect from this author.
ETA Nothing new to add. Enjoyable read still. These two could grow on me given time I think.
March 2, 2015
Usually bugs me when the characters just talking could solve much unneeded angst. This was an exception because it was clear that Mark really didn't completely understand what he was feeling or know how to express it, so he needed time to work that out. While this didn't grab me like book one, I like both MC and enjoyed continuing to see how their very different personalities and backgrounds played out together. The cover was strange for me as I think its based on a single reference to clowns, and the fact that its near Halloween maybe. 3.75 stars rounded up.
May 24, 2012
This is a sequel to I SPY SOMETHING BLOODY, where we revisit Mark and Stephen. The previous story is my favorite from the #2 collection of Josh Lanyon's novella, so I really want to know what happens next. ALTHOUGH, since the story is already really good, I'm also worried on what kind of story the sequel will tell. I guess I shouldn't have doubts because Josh Lanyon is good in writing a story packed with emotion. This one is a short story but it deals with what Mark's feel, about his normal life, his fears, and how he admits it finally to his lover. A wonderful (albeit short) story.
October 17, 2014
Wow this is a short story that boils down to choices. Mark has been asked to perform one last mission, but if he does it will impact the relationship with his love Stephen. This is Mark's struggle with duty, what he believes he owes his past, and his new future life with Stephen. Can Mark believe he deserves to be happy with the ghosts of the past circling his future?
This was so intense So much packed into a little package. Great story.
This was so intense So much packed into a little package. Great story.
May 12, 2014
3.4stars
Strangely detached which might be because I’ve just come out of an intense read or because something in the book itself.
I will review after a reread.
Strangely detached which might be because I’ve just come out of an intense read or because something in the book itself.
I will review after a reread.
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