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Steel City #2
Zipper Fall: Steel City Heat
I’m Wyatt and I love Jack, but our story ain't your run-of-the-mill romance. When I rapelled down Jack Azurri's building and entered his bedroom window, the plan was to burgle him, not fall in love with him. I fell for him as he lay asleep in his bed with an all-consuming, obsessive passion that burned down all decent boundaries. But Jack harbors secrets of his own. Unresolved grief over his sister, a suspected murder, and a curious attachment to doing things all right and legal... for a change. We're like oil and water, ying and yang. A match made in Heaven. What could go wrong? hot men in adult situiations, angst, and mortifying embarrassment.
308 pages, Paperback
First published September 20, 2013
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88 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 28 of 28 reviews
September 29, 2013
3 Stars
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Wyatt Gaudens is an avid climber working in marketing and advertising – a job he finds boring and unimportant. Instead he seeks his excitement and adrenaline rushes not only from climbing, but also in the form of breaking and entering (and stealing from) other people’ homes.
Jack Azzuri is Wyatt’s best friend’s boss (who refers to him as Azz-hole).
Despite all his self imposed rules about breaking and entering and stealing from people he knows or knows someone he knows, when Wyatt learns Jack will be out of town for a while, he decides to hit Jack’s apartment. He cases the place, works out the best method of breaking in, ensures no-one’s home by calling beforehand and even knocking on the door. He finds the usual stash of cash in the freezer along with a couple of other easily fenced items and then gets out. After spotting a wall safe before leaving, he decides a rare second hit is in order. However, on his second visit, when he climbs in through a bedroom window there’s a naked man asleep in the bed. A stunningly beautiful naked man. Wyatt is forced to hide in the closet when the man – Jack – stirs from his sleep. And then proceeds a tried and true method of relaxation. An act that a captivated Wyatt can’t help but record on his phone. He makes his escape and thinks that’s that, but guilt starts rearing it’s ugly head, mainly because he finds himself completely smitten with the man, and Wyatt decides to return the items he stole. This time, when he breaks in, Jack is waiting for him. Despite Wyatt’s smartarse quips, he convinces Jack he really was returning the items and Jack lets him go with the warning to not come back.
The next day, Wyatt is at work when his boss informs him that they have an appointment with a new client and Wyatt is to meet him. Wyatt is beyond shocked when the man turns out to be Jack Azzuri. I won’t go into any further details in between that meeting and how their relationship starts because it takes a quite a few necessary steps to get there and would make for a very long review. Suffice it to say that Wyatt later learns that Jack’s sister, Celia, who was an also an avid climber, was killed in a climbing accident that Jack has some major suspicions about. The mystery of which becomes a major element in the second half of the book.
At the start, I didn’t particularly LIKE the MC. But I WAS intrigued. Even a quarter or so into the book I still didn’t particularly like either of the protagonists, but continued to find them intriguing and did like the story. I did start to warm, first to Wyatt and then, a little later, Jack and I really came to love them together for most of the book. I liked Jack’s nickname for Wyatt. Wyatt proved to be quite a complex character and I did enjoy the revealing of those layers.
At halfway into the book the sudden, out of the blue revelations that were almost 180s to the previous information were starting to give me whiplash. I was still really enjoying the story but they kept pulling me out of it. In fact, there were a few contradictions and inconsistencies that kept cropping up, including a wound requiring surgery that seemed to get half ignored, if not completely, at least when it didn’t suit the author for it to be there. The whole relationship ‘conflict’ just didn’t quite gel for me, especially combined with the over the top plate breaking scene preceding it (which then became Jack’s preferred method of anger management. Although since Wyatt is the one who suggested it, he was obviously okay with it). I was definitely glad when Wyatt actually told Jack what he was feeling and why. The last quarter lost momentum, feeling bogged down with the pursuit of Celia’s possible murderer’s confession and the relationship conflict that seemed to prevaricate all over the place.
I had to think about this one for a bit because I really wasn’t sure how to review it. There were definitely things that I did like and enjoy about this book. Although it took me a little while, I ended up warming to Wyatt and Jack, and they had a lot of chemistry as a couple. However, the last quarter of the book, especially, ran off the rails a bit for me. The ‘mystery’ component felt underdone and slightly clunky and got in the way of the relationship between Wyatt and Jack. Jack ended up showing some really serious self control and anger issues and that, coupled with the book being told solely from Wyatt’s POV (I don’t mind single POVs, although it can end up distancing the other MC depending on the character), made it more and more difficult to keep liking him.
A "Live Your Life, Buy The Book" Review
Wyatt Gaudens is an avid climber working in marketing and advertising – a job he finds boring and unimportant. Instead he seeks his excitement and adrenaline rushes not only from climbing, but also in the form of breaking and entering (and stealing from) other people’ homes.
Jack Azzuri is Wyatt’s best friend’s boss (who refers to him as Azz-hole).
Despite all his self imposed rules about breaking and entering and stealing from people he knows or knows someone he knows, when Wyatt learns Jack will be out of town for a while, he decides to hit Jack’s apartment. He cases the place, works out the best method of breaking in, ensures no-one’s home by calling beforehand and even knocking on the door. He finds the usual stash of cash in the freezer along with a couple of other easily fenced items and then gets out. After spotting a wall safe before leaving, he decides a rare second hit is in order. However, on his second visit, when he climbs in through a bedroom window there’s a naked man asleep in the bed. A stunningly beautiful naked man. Wyatt is forced to hide in the closet when the man – Jack – stirs from his sleep. And then proceeds a tried and true method of relaxation. An act that a captivated Wyatt can’t help but record on his phone. He makes his escape and thinks that’s that, but guilt starts rearing it’s ugly head, mainly because he finds himself completely smitten with the man, and Wyatt decides to return the items he stole. This time, when he breaks in, Jack is waiting for him. Despite Wyatt’s smartarse quips, he convinces Jack he really was returning the items and Jack lets him go with the warning to not come back.
The next day, Wyatt is at work when his boss informs him that they have an appointment with a new client and Wyatt is to meet him. Wyatt is beyond shocked when the man turns out to be Jack Azzuri. I won’t go into any further details in between that meeting and how their relationship starts because it takes a quite a few necessary steps to get there and would make for a very long review. Suffice it to say that Wyatt later learns that Jack’s sister, Celia, who was an also an avid climber, was killed in a climbing accident that Jack has some major suspicions about. The mystery of which becomes a major element in the second half of the book.
At the start, I didn’t particularly LIKE the MC. But I WAS intrigued. Even a quarter or so into the book I still didn’t particularly like either of the protagonists, but continued to find them intriguing and did like the story. I did start to warm, first to Wyatt and then, a little later, Jack and I really came to love them together for most of the book. I liked Jack’s nickname for Wyatt. Wyatt proved to be quite a complex character and I did enjoy the revealing of those layers.
At halfway into the book the sudden, out of the blue revelations that were almost 180s to the previous information were starting to give me whiplash. I was still really enjoying the story but they kept pulling me out of it. In fact, there were a few contradictions and inconsistencies that kept cropping up, including a wound requiring surgery that seemed to get half ignored, if not completely, at least when it didn’t suit the author for it to be there. The whole relationship ‘conflict’ just didn’t quite gel for me, especially combined with the over the top plate breaking scene preceding it (which then became Jack’s preferred method of anger management. Although since Wyatt is the one who suggested it, he was obviously okay with it). I was definitely glad when Wyatt actually told Jack what he was feeling and why. The last quarter lost momentum, feeling bogged down with the pursuit of Celia’s possible murderer’s confession and the relationship conflict that seemed to prevaricate all over the place.
I had to think about this one for a bit because I really wasn’t sure how to review it. There were definitely things that I did like and enjoy about this book. Although it took me a little while, I ended up warming to Wyatt and Jack, and they had a lot of chemistry as a couple. However, the last quarter of the book, especially, ran off the rails a bit for me. The ‘mystery’ component felt underdone and slightly clunky and got in the way of the relationship between Wyatt and Jack. Jack ended up showing some really serious self control and anger issues and that, coupled with the book being told solely from Wyatt’s POV (I don’t mind single POVs, although it can end up distancing the other MC depending on the character), made it more and more difficult to keep liking him.
January 7, 2014
4 & 1/2 STARS!
I love thief-of-heart romances, you know the kind where a clever, heart of gold, burglar gets caught by his intended victim and ends up falling in love. Zipper Fall is an exceptional take on this theme and author Kate Pavelle pulls out all the stops, providing a steamy twist and turn romantic mystery involving two fine specimens of manhood; part-time burglar Wyatt Gaudens and sexy investment banker Jack Azzuri.
Youthful, athletic, and blond, Wyatt appears to be doing pretty well for himself. He’s got a paying gig as an advertising executive at a good firm, he’s an avid rock climber, and he’s got friends with like interests including his gal pal, the smoking hot, redheaded Reyna. Best friends since college, Reyna and Wyatt share each other’s triumphs and woes and tell each other everything. Well, mostly everything, Wyatt has never shared how he gets his adrenaline kicks by breaking into people's homes and stealing stuff. Not big stuff, just a little something to remind him of his accomplishment, well, maybe a little more from those who deserve it for being such pricks.
The point is, he’s good at what he does, he never hurts anyone, and it gives him a thrill to see the underbelly of his victim’s lives. It’s the closest he’ll get to understanding family dynamics given his dysfunctional family and past relationship experiences. When Reyna repeatedly complains about her raging ass of a boss, it’s only natural that Wyatt decides to break into the asshole’s apartment and gain some revenge. What he finds sends his libido into overdrive and has him breaking his own rules. When his intended victim catches him in the act, Wyatt loses his job, but will he also lose his heart?
Surly, investment banker Jack Azurri’s tall, dark, and handsome looks are only overridden by his formidable temper and demanding professional demeanor. If his temper has been worse lately, it’s probably because he’s rebuilding his million-dollar business after a very public scandal shattered it to smithereens. Also, his sister, Celia, his last living relative, recently died while rock climbing. He’s certain her death wasn’t an accident, but has no way to prove it. When a bit–o-fluff thief rappels down and into his apartment to burgle him, Jack’s anger gets the best of him and he enacts his own brand of revenge.
Both of these characters are terrific. Two private, determined men who are accustomed to dealing with their problems alone, but in completely different ways. Neither of them are looking for a relationship and initially both fight their attraction. I loved the push and pull between them, as each fought to give without giving ground. Kudos to the author for bravely revealing aspects of both leads that could have made them less lovable, but instead made them more realistic and myself more empathetic toward them. Wyatt’s physical vulnerability towards the larger Jack was beautifully portrayed, as was Jack’s frustration at not knowing how to deal with his overwhelming rage.
And what a fantastic supporting cast, many of whom I hope show up in other stories by this author. Arrow to the heart emotional content grounds this story, but there is also a lot of action as solving the mystery of what happened to Jack’s sister draws the two men closer. A very enjoyable read. Hot sex scenes and a genuine “gang of friends” feel to Wyatt’s rock climbing buds provide a gleaming polish to this uncut diamond.
Thank you, Kate Pavelle, for this remarkably romantic thriller, which revealed that self-reliant does not necessarily mean alone. “Sexy, Adrenaline rush”
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
I love thief-of-heart romances, you know the kind where a clever, heart of gold, burglar gets caught by his intended victim and ends up falling in love. Zipper Fall is an exceptional take on this theme and author Kate Pavelle pulls out all the stops, providing a steamy twist and turn romantic mystery involving two fine specimens of manhood; part-time burglar Wyatt Gaudens and sexy investment banker Jack Azzuri.
Youthful, athletic, and blond, Wyatt appears to be doing pretty well for himself. He’s got a paying gig as an advertising executive at a good firm, he’s an avid rock climber, and he’s got friends with like interests including his gal pal, the smoking hot, redheaded Reyna. Best friends since college, Reyna and Wyatt share each other’s triumphs and woes and tell each other everything. Well, mostly everything, Wyatt has never shared how he gets his adrenaline kicks by breaking into people's homes and stealing stuff. Not big stuff, just a little something to remind him of his accomplishment, well, maybe a little more from those who deserve it for being such pricks.
The point is, he’s good at what he does, he never hurts anyone, and it gives him a thrill to see the underbelly of his victim’s lives. It’s the closest he’ll get to understanding family dynamics given his dysfunctional family and past relationship experiences. When Reyna repeatedly complains about her raging ass of a boss, it’s only natural that Wyatt decides to break into the asshole’s apartment and gain some revenge. What he finds sends his libido into overdrive and has him breaking his own rules. When his intended victim catches him in the act, Wyatt loses his job, but will he also lose his heart?
Surly, investment banker Jack Azurri’s tall, dark, and handsome looks are only overridden by his formidable temper and demanding professional demeanor. If his temper has been worse lately, it’s probably because he’s rebuilding his million-dollar business after a very public scandal shattered it to smithereens. Also, his sister, Celia, his last living relative, recently died while rock climbing. He’s certain her death wasn’t an accident, but has no way to prove it. When a bit–o-fluff thief rappels down and into his apartment to burgle him, Jack’s anger gets the best of him and he enacts his own brand of revenge.
Both of these characters are terrific. Two private, determined men who are accustomed to dealing with their problems alone, but in completely different ways. Neither of them are looking for a relationship and initially both fight their attraction. I loved the push and pull between them, as each fought to give without giving ground. Kudos to the author for bravely revealing aspects of both leads that could have made them less lovable, but instead made them more realistic and myself more empathetic toward them. Wyatt’s physical vulnerability towards the larger Jack was beautifully portrayed, as was Jack’s frustration at not knowing how to deal with his overwhelming rage.
And what a fantastic supporting cast, many of whom I hope show up in other stories by this author. Arrow to the heart emotional content grounds this story, but there is also a lot of action as solving the mystery of what happened to Jack’s sister draws the two men closer. A very enjoyable read. Hot sex scenes and a genuine “gang of friends” feel to Wyatt’s rock climbing buds provide a gleaming polish to this uncut diamond.
Thank you, Kate Pavelle, for this remarkably romantic thriller, which revealed that self-reliant does not necessarily mean alone. “Sexy, Adrenaline rush”
This book was provided by Dreamspinner Press for the purpose of a review on Rainbow Book Reviews.
September 23, 2013
One reader summed this book up nicely - 'strange'. It completely and totally is strange. Therefore, it gets four stars as it sucked me in with all these odd twisty turny subplots and odd occurrences. It bounced around like a ball let loose in a rubber room, yet it was engaging and I wanted to know what came next with each page. This one stumps me!!!
Read
November 18, 2013DNF and I never not finish books. The MC was a crazy stalker and I just couldn't finish it.
March 25, 2014
REVIEWED FOR PRISM BOOK ALLIANCE
The first word that springs to mind when I think about this book is ‘different’.
I had no expectations when I started this book. It was a new author and a title that I hadn’t come across so the only clue I had was the blurb. It’s actually a difficult book to describe as it’s not your common romance nor is it altogether an action/suspense novel. The best I can do is to explain my thoughts.
Wyatt was a bit of an enigma. He is reckless yet cautious. He is outgoing and flirtatious yet has a non-existent personal life. He has a full time job yet he continues to be a part time thief and has a flair for lock picking. His true passion is climbing and if those skills come into use when he is breaking and entering then all the better. He seems to need the adrenaline rush to keep him sane. Most people in his life have let him down and walked away from him at some point so he keeps up his barriers to prevent more hurt.
Jack has a very bad temper and it is quick to show. He is aggressive and tends to lash out first and ask questions later. He is also the Wyatts best friends boss and when he upsets her at work he becomes Wyatts next mark.
Wyatt gets quite the haul when he breaks into Jacks apartment knowing the man is away for the weekend. Realising there is a safe there that he doesn’t have time to crack he returns another evening but finds Jack in bed when he enters the apartment through the bedroom window. Wyatt is stunned by the sight of Jack in all his naked glory and it becomes all he can think about in the following days. Wyatt becomes a bit of a stalker which is perhaps not the best way for a relationship to start.
Although Jack discovers that Wyatt has stolen from him the two men somehow become friends and then lovers. I couldn’t get their relationship to work for me as I couldn’t feel any chemistry between the pair. Jack was constantly struggling with his temper and mood swings and Wyatt didn’t seem to know whether he wanted Jack or he wanted to run. To me they felt a bit strained together.
The other side of the story is Jacks sister died less than a year ago in a climbing accident and although the Police ruled it accidental Jack has always believed there to be more to it. Without proof he has been unable to do anything but with Wyatts help they start finding small clues and hope to find the truth.
If you like a descriptive book that moves at a slow place then you will enjoy this. There are so many hurdles in front of them before they can get their HEA that at times it seems impossible. When Jacks possessiveness comes out and scares Wyatt both men have to re-evaluate the relationship before it is too late. As I said in the beginning....this book is different
The first word that springs to mind when I think about this book is ‘different’.
I had no expectations when I started this book. It was a new author and a title that I hadn’t come across so the only clue I had was the blurb. It’s actually a difficult book to describe as it’s not your common romance nor is it altogether an action/suspense novel. The best I can do is to explain my thoughts.
Wyatt was a bit of an enigma. He is reckless yet cautious. He is outgoing and flirtatious yet has a non-existent personal life. He has a full time job yet he continues to be a part time thief and has a flair for lock picking. His true passion is climbing and if those skills come into use when he is breaking and entering then all the better. He seems to need the adrenaline rush to keep him sane. Most people in his life have let him down and walked away from him at some point so he keeps up his barriers to prevent more hurt.
Jack has a very bad temper and it is quick to show. He is aggressive and tends to lash out first and ask questions later. He is also the Wyatts best friends boss and when he upsets her at work he becomes Wyatts next mark.
Wyatt gets quite the haul when he breaks into Jacks apartment knowing the man is away for the weekend. Realising there is a safe there that he doesn’t have time to crack he returns another evening but finds Jack in bed when he enters the apartment through the bedroom window. Wyatt is stunned by the sight of Jack in all his naked glory and it becomes all he can think about in the following days. Wyatt becomes a bit of a stalker which is perhaps not the best way for a relationship to start.
Although Jack discovers that Wyatt has stolen from him the two men somehow become friends and then lovers. I couldn’t get their relationship to work for me as I couldn’t feel any chemistry between the pair. Jack was constantly struggling with his temper and mood swings and Wyatt didn’t seem to know whether he wanted Jack or he wanted to run. To me they felt a bit strained together.
The other side of the story is Jacks sister died less than a year ago in a climbing accident and although the Police ruled it accidental Jack has always believed there to be more to it. Without proof he has been unable to do anything but with Wyatts help they start finding small clues and hope to find the truth.
If you like a descriptive book that moves at a slow place then you will enjoy this. There are so many hurdles in front of them before they can get their HEA that at times it seems impossible. When Jacks possessiveness comes out and scares Wyatt both men have to re-evaluate the relationship before it is too late. As I said in the beginning....this book is different
November 25, 2013
A murder mystery romance filled with suspense, adventure and obsessions. An action packed adrenaline fused story with good fun secondary characters.
Reviewed by Teddy
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
Wyatt is daring, reckless, flamboyant and flirty, but has a sensitive cautious side to him. Wyatt is likeable and cute and tough where it counts. He has a reject button that he uses to repel any possible threat of hurt and loss heading his way. Wyatt is young but has already experienced enough loss and detachment to warrant a strong sense self protection emotionally. I wasn't surprised how quickly Wyatt fell for Jack. I felt it was all part of the danger, the chase and the intrigue to maintain Wyatt's adrenaline fix. And as long as Wyatt stayed in control, he got just what he needed.
With Jack I kind of swung like a pendulum with my like and my dislike of him. He first appears aggressive and tense. He doesn't give much away when it comes to his feelings of love for Wyatt, I felt Jack held back. Although his nature does soften towards Wyatt eventually, I felt Jack had trust issues, which lead him to panic. Jack fears for his emotions of heartache and loss as much as Wyatt, having had more than his fair share of both. Throughout the read Jack grew on me as I got to know and understand him, his reactions were a little over the top, but life had dealt him a bowl of sorrow and left him to dish it up with an implement of anger.
In spite of the eventful way that their relationship starts, with Wyatt stalking, bordering on obsessive and Jack tense and demanding, they are hot for each other. Wyatt and Jack find a connection and with gradual acceptance they lower their defences. But not for long as the mystery surrounding the death of Jack's sister unravels emotions run high. With Jack's intangible sadness and Wyatt's need for an adrenaline fix, conflict develops between them. Jack ensues with a needy, overbearing and controlling attitude. Jack’s behaviour scares Wyatt and despite Wyatt's feelings for Jack he starts to make plans of his own. Jack is in love with Wyatt, but can he redeem himself or has he gone too far this time?
I have given this book a C simply because I felt it was a little disorderly in places. But overall I did enjoy the read, the storyline was good. I liked the characters despite my love-hate relationship with them.
Reviewed by Teddy
To see more of this review and others like it please visit us at Gay List Book Reviews at www.gaylistbookreviews.wordpress.com
April 21, 2018
In Kate Pavelle's Zipper Fall, the second installment in the Steel City man/man romance series, this love story is like no other. When Wyatt Gaudens's best friend Reyna was having trouble at work with her boss, he had to check him out for himself. Besides working in a PR firm, he climbs buildings and steels things for his hobby. But when he had broken into his building, he became attracted to Jack Azzurri. And their romance wasn't like any other, when he had feelings for him. Needless to say, it also had gotten him fired, when he was caught in the act. And his best friend took his spot to work for former boss. After he had made an interesting proposal to Auguste Pillory of sending him small firm clients, a deal had been made between them with no hard feelings. But as they had gotten to know each other, even in a most intimate way, he learned about Jack's sister Celia who had died from a climbing accident. That led Wyatt to do his own investigation and put some heat on who had killed her, supposedly from her own workplace. While all this, he had gotten into hot heated trouble with a robbery and shot in a most painful way. That's when Jack learned about how hurt Wyatt had been with his own family and then with his former lover who tended to his injuries. In the end, they trusted each other and found a true love that can't be found elsewhere.
September 25, 2013
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's not really a sequel to Ms. Pavelle's first novel, Wild Horses, and there is just a passing reference to Kai and the Steel City to link the two. Oh, and a couple of the characters in the two books have proclivities for theft. However, the MCs in this book are terrific. The book starts out very light, humorous and fresh. As the book progresses, it becomes more emotional and serious as Wyatt, in whose POV the book is written, becomes more introspective. Like in Wild Horses, Ms. Pavelle is good at creating a connection and chemistry between her MCs. I enjoy her writing style, and consider Ms. Pavelle an auto-buy.
September 26, 2013
Okay. Didn't realize this was part of a series, and actually does very well as a standalone.I really enjoyed this one. For some reason was feeling like Wyatt was channeling a little 'Jory' from A Matter of Time. Don't ask me why, but the author was able to make him a very likeable MC.
Jack was a bit hard to take to start, but when they got the D/s thing going on, and the switching of sorts, well, I decided I really liked this one.. it became a battle of 'one-up-man-ship' that was fun to read, and had me chuckling and holding my breath at times.
Do yourself a favor and give this one a read...now I just need to go back and purchase/read the first in the series!
Jack was a bit hard to take to start, but when they got the D/s thing going on, and the switching of sorts, well, I decided I really liked this one.. it became a battle of 'one-up-man-ship' that was fun to read, and had me chuckling and holding my breath at times.
Do yourself a favor and give this one a read...now I just need to go back and purchase/read the first in the series!
September 21, 2013
Strange.
October 2, 2013
3.5 stars
This shit was stalkerishly funny!
I loved the word JISM 5 STARS JUST FOR THAT
THE RING TONE... HOLY CRAP I LAUGHED SO SO HARD
This shit was stalkerishly funny!
I loved the word JISM 5 STARS JUST FOR THAT
THE RING TONE... HOLY CRAP I LAUGHED SO SO HARD
October 4, 2014
Reviewed by Marissa
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Have you ever read a blurb for a book and had the storyline set in your mind then, as you read the book the story angles off and takes a completely different road? That is this book. But that’s not a bad thing. I often find myself pleasantly surprised when this happens as I get a whole new story.
I have to admit that I liked it when Wyatt was sneaking into apartments. I guess that’s the bad girl in me but I loved it when he took things people would miss, especially when those people were not so nice. However, I also loved it when he returned items. Basically, Wyatt was a good guy trying to play at being Robin Hood and getting his thrills doing it.
Jack seems to be the driven yet down to earth business man. With no distractions, he does puts all his time and energy into his business; but when Wyatt comes along, the man underneath comes out and the humanity shows through.
The mystery of the story was almost as enticing as the romance between Wyatt and Jack. I was surprised to find that Zipper Fall was number two in a series since there didn’t seem to be any mention of previous characters. Don’t be afraid to pick this one up if you haven’t read the first book, Wild Horses – they don’t appear to have any connection other than location. (Although I will be picking up the first book as it sounds intriguing.)
Book provided by the publisher for review
Review originally posted at Romancing the Book
Have you ever read a blurb for a book and had the storyline set in your mind then, as you read the book the story angles off and takes a completely different road? That is this book. But that’s not a bad thing. I often find myself pleasantly surprised when this happens as I get a whole new story.
I have to admit that I liked it when Wyatt was sneaking into apartments. I guess that’s the bad girl in me but I loved it when he took things people would miss, especially when those people were not so nice. However, I also loved it when he returned items. Basically, Wyatt was a good guy trying to play at being Robin Hood and getting his thrills doing it.
Jack seems to be the driven yet down to earth business man. With no distractions, he does puts all his time and energy into his business; but when Wyatt comes along, the man underneath comes out and the humanity shows through.
The mystery of the story was almost as enticing as the romance between Wyatt and Jack. I was surprised to find that Zipper Fall was number two in a series since there didn’t seem to be any mention of previous characters. Don’t be afraid to pick this one up if you haven’t read the first book, Wild Horses – they don’t appear to have any connection other than location. (Although I will be picking up the first book as it sounds intriguing.)
November 5, 2013
I enjoyed the series of unfortunate events that seems to plague their relationship. And, yeah, semen and noses don't mix. lol It did feel a bit farfetched in places, but still kept me entertained. Someone said this is part of a series? Ooops. Guess I jumped in at the second book. I'll need to go look for the first one. Yay, something new to read! And just in time, too, because I was about to look for something new.
January 30, 2014
3.5 STARS
To tell the truth I’m still quite conflicted, I’m not sure really how much I liked it. At times I felt like groaning that it was never going to finish but at other times I was really enjoying it. I would definitely check out other books by this author because I did like the originality of the story.
Find my full review at The Blog of Sid Love
http://sidlove.com/2014/01/29/book-re...
To tell the truth I’m still quite conflicted, I’m not sure really how much I liked it. At times I felt like groaning that it was never going to finish but at other times I was really enjoying it. I would definitely check out other books by this author because I did like the originality of the story.
Find my full review at The Blog of Sid Love
http://sidlove.com/2014/01/29/book-re...
June 8, 2014
I really enjoyed this. It was refreshingly different, intoxicating and I was hooked from the first page. I know it wasn't a conventional mm romance but I do class it as a romance. I loved all the characters, especially Wyatt. Highly recommended for anyone who wants something with a bit of a bite. Something to grab their attention and never let go.
October 15, 2013
Not sure what to say about this book, except I really liked it. Liked out it wasn't a fait a compli with the MC's after becoming intimate. Just a bit over the top with everyone picking locks at the end. Nice murder mystery inter twined. Loved the ending with the supposed 'death'.
September 26, 2013
The phone ring tone...oh my. Both hilarious and touching and an interesting plot.
March 5, 2019
3.5 🌟 rounded up
This is a good story that is in need of some editing. The characters are well developed and the storyline is unique and well developed.
The good points:
•Enough of a mystery to keep it entertaining.
•I absolutely loved the way the characters dealt with anger and frustration halfway through the story.
•Breaking and entering for the adrenaline rush.
•Quite funny at times.
• A lot of snark, a bit of dry humor.
•The MCs are both stubborn, but seem to care enough about each other to try to make things work.
•The sexy times were hot 🔥.
•The resolution of the story was good, and the allusion at the end was very sweet.
The cons:
•*slight spoiler* One of the MCs made the other feel unsafe and vulnerable, but was forgiven with a dinner.
•One MC never truly committed to the relationship.
•A startup business somehow turns into something more permanent that is really not fully explained.
•I'm going to contradict myself here; the way an MC chooses to handle his knowledge of the facts of the truth is unhealthy, if decided with the best of intentions.
•It seemed like words were missing or used inappropriately.
This is not the way I typically review a book, but I'm not sure how to explain the way it made me feel in words. The storyline was really good, if just a little slow at times. But most of the time it kept a decent pace. The relationship between the MCs at times was really sweet, but most of the time I just wanted to strangle both of them. Anyway, overall, it's a decent read, but you do have to do some creative reading due to the poor editing.
* I received an ARC of this book. *
This is a good story that is in need of some editing. The characters are well developed and the storyline is unique and well developed.
The good points:
•Enough of a mystery to keep it entertaining.
•I absolutely loved the way the characters dealt with anger and frustration halfway through the story.
•Breaking and entering for the adrenaline rush.
•Quite funny at times.
• A lot of snark, a bit of dry humor.
•The MCs are both stubborn, but seem to care enough about each other to try to make things work.
•The sexy times were hot 🔥.
•The resolution of the story was good, and the allusion at the end was very sweet.
The cons:
•*slight spoiler* One of the MCs made the other feel unsafe and vulnerable, but was forgiven with a dinner.
•One MC never truly committed to the relationship.
•A startup business somehow turns into something more permanent that is really not fully explained.
•I'm going to contradict myself here; the way an MC chooses to handle his knowledge of the facts of the truth is unhealthy, if decided with the best of intentions.
•It seemed like words were missing or used inappropriately.
This is not the way I typically review a book, but I'm not sure how to explain the way it made me feel in words. The storyline was really good, if just a little slow at times. But most of the time it kept a decent pace. The relationship between the MCs at times was really sweet, but most of the time I just wanted to strangle both of them. Anyway, overall, it's a decent read, but you do have to do some creative reading due to the poor editing.
* I received an ARC of this book. *
February 28, 2019
Wyatt is a reasonable man, has a good job, great friends, and a little problem with breaking and entering. Jack is an uptight, controlling man, mourning the death of his sister. When these two meet neither one will ever be the same.
These guys were mostly fabulous. Wyatt reasoning that when he burgles someone it’s because they probably deserve it. That takes him to the home of his best friends boss. According to her he is an unreasonable, dictatorial, pain in the butt. When he goes back to return what he had stolen, he gets caught.
These guys were mostly wonderful. Jack could be quite controlling, not always in a good way. The story was interesting and funny at times, sad in others. I went into the book not really know what to expect but really enjoyed the snark, ringtones, stolen underwear, broken china, and the love. Very pleased to have read this one.
I received an arc of this book from the author.
These guys were mostly fabulous. Wyatt reasoning that when he burgles someone it’s because they probably deserve it. That takes him to the home of his best friends boss. According to her he is an unreasonable, dictatorial, pain in the butt. When he goes back to return what he had stolen, he gets caught.
These guys were mostly wonderful. Jack could be quite controlling, not always in a good way. The story was interesting and funny at times, sad in others. I went into the book not really know what to expect but really enjoyed the snark, ringtones, stolen underwear, broken china, and the love. Very pleased to have read this one.
I received an arc of this book from the author.
March 12, 2019
a thief and his prey... who then becomes his love.. it was a fun story.. i enjoyed it and it was interesting. good story
September 30, 2013
3.25 stars
I had to think about this one for a bit because I really wasn’t sure how to review it. There were definitely things that I did like and enjoy about this book. Although it took me a little while, I ended up warming to Wyatt and Jack, and they had a lot of chemistry as a couple. However, the last quarter of the book, especially, ran off the rails a bit for me. The ‘mystery’ component felt underdone and slightly clunky and got in the way of the relationship between Wyatt and Jack. Jack ended up showing some really serious self control and anger issues and that, coupled with the book being told solely from Wyatt’s POV (I don’t mind single POVs, although it can end up distancing the other MC depending on the character), made it more and more difficult to keep liking him.
Read the full review at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
I had to think about this one for a bit because I really wasn’t sure how to review it. There were definitely things that I did like and enjoy about this book. Although it took me a little while, I ended up warming to Wyatt and Jack, and they had a lot of chemistry as a couple. However, the last quarter of the book, especially, ran off the rails a bit for me. The ‘mystery’ component felt underdone and slightly clunky and got in the way of the relationship between Wyatt and Jack. Jack ended up showing some really serious self control and anger issues and that, coupled with the book being told solely from Wyatt’s POV (I don’t mind single POVs, although it can end up distancing the other MC depending on the character), made it more and more difficult to keep liking him.
Read the full review at Live Your Life, Buy The Book
December 24, 2015
Story has a weird over-the-top corny humorous beginning, then settles down to have some serious points. It took me a while to connect with the different personality dynamics between the Wyatt and Jack, but over all I'm glad I stuck it out. I really did enjoy in the long run. I even learned a lot about rock climbing.
Wyatt is an incompetent burglar at night, advertisement designer by day. A true adrenaline junky. Jack is a CEO partner in financing who has a acerbic and hot temper personality with control issues. It's amazing how these two come together actually, face their personal demons, and eventually overcome them.
Wyatt is an incompetent burglar at night, advertisement designer by day. A true adrenaline junky. Jack is a CEO partner in financing who has a acerbic and hot temper personality with control issues. It's amazing how these two come together actually, face their personal demons, and eventually overcome them.
November 4, 2015
So many unexpected turns. I didn't think was goin to be such a good mystery as well. I'm also glad Celia's death was justified in its own right. I wonder if Risby is bisexual, or just knew what the peanut gang was up to all along. He is a mystery in itself. I enjoyed this very much, especially the topic of anger management coping skills and Wyatt's feelins of being immasculated and humiliated from Jack's temper and aggression. The explanation of why he didn't do anything about it was like women with domestic violence except him being male his pride was his downfall. I'm happy there was closure.
March 2, 2021
2.5 Stars ~ Seeing how much I adored book one in this series (well, the original book 1 in the original series) I expected to feel the same way about this installment. Sadly that isn’t the case. And, the problem, more than likely, is mine and not the writing. I couldn’t get a handle on either of these men not to mention that Jack’s personality was very... well, squicky is the best word that comes to mind.
I’m sorry it didn’t work for me.
I’m sorry it didn’t work for me.
September 28, 2013
My reaction after finishing the book --> O_o Dafuuuq did I just read?!
This is one chaotic book to say the least. Still not sure if I liked it or not, but I definitely know that I didn't hate it (if that makes sense)...
This is one chaotic book to say the least. Still not sure if I liked it or not, but I definitely know that I didn't hate it (if that makes sense)...
January 9, 2017
A fun M/M romance. Really should be about 2.5 stars.
December 14, 2014
ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC!
April 20, 2017
This is the second book in the Steel City series. But you really wouldn't know it. There's like 5 mentions of Kai from the first book and that's about it. I expected to at least see some of the characters from the first but no. Also, the writing style is completely different. It went from a dual point of view third person to one point of view in first person. I swear I was so confused when I started it.
There was just something about this book. I really liked Wyatt. I will agree with most of the other reviewers. He was strange. I found his B&E addiction to be hilarious. The way Jack caught him and what happened the next day had me laughing so hard! There are a few serious topics but for the most part it was an easy and enjoyable read. I liked it even more than the first book in the series.
There was just something about this book. I really liked Wyatt. I will agree with most of the other reviewers. He was strange. I found his B&E addiction to be hilarious. The way Jack caught him and what happened the next day had me laughing so hard! There are a few serious topics but for the most part it was an easy and enjoyable read. I liked it even more than the first book in the series.
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