Sticks & Stones

Cut & Run #2

by Abigail Roux, Madeleine Urban

Six months after nearly losing their lives to a serial killer in New York City, FBI Special Agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett are suffering through something almost as frightening: the monotony of desk duty. When they're ordered to take a vacation for the good of everyone's sanity, Ty bites the bullet and takes Zane home with him to West Virginia, hoping the peace and quiet of the mountains will give them the chance to explore the explosive attraction they've so far been unable to reconcile with their professional partnership.
Ty and Zane, along with Ty's father and brother, head up into the Appalachian mountains for a nice, relaxing hike deep into the woods... where no one will hear them scream. They find themselves facing danger from all directions: unpredictable weather, the unrelenting mountains, wild animals, fellow hikers with nothing to lose, and the most terrifying challenge of all. Each other.

Genres: M M Romance, Romance, Contemporary, Mystery, Crime, LGBT, Suspense

298 pages, Paperback

First published January 25, 2010

About the author

Abigail Roux was born and raised in North Carolina. A past volleyball star who specializes in sarcasm and painful historical accuracy, she currently spends her time coaching high school volleyball and investigating the mysteries of single motherhood. Any spare time is spent living and dying with every Atlanta Braves and Carolina Panthers game of the year. Abigail has a daughter, Little Roux, who is the light of her life, a boxer, four rescued cats who play an ongoing live-action variation of 'Call of Duty' throughout the house, a certifiable extended family down the road, and a cast of thousands in her head.

Reviews

[Dd · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ladies and gentlemen,may I have your attention please!!!


Thank you!!!


And the award for the BEST COUPLE goes to.....


TY AND ZANE!!!


Please let us all give this DYSFUNCTIONAL and CRAZY,SWEET and AMAZING,ANTAGONIZING and ANNOYING,and MAD FOR EACH OTHER couple a big hand.


Okay,now moving on....


The Plot--

The story starts with Ty and Zane (of course) trying to cope with their brutal and garish encounter with the Tri-State serial killer a few months back.Both ,deeply scarred and unable to deal ,are slowly growing apart!!

Sensing their mental instability,they are told to go on a vacation (actually ordered). Ty asks Zane to come with him to his family home in West Virginia.Zane accepts.

It's supposed to be a relaxing time when they can actually enjoy some peace......

But for Ty and Zane is it possible to stay away from trouble and danger???

The Vacation--

It starts out pretty good.Ty's happy to be back home.Zane likes watching Ty happy and also likes his family,never mind they are crazy too...Ty’s brother Deuce,who’s a shrink by the way.His father Earl,very strict and expects a lot from his sons.His grandfather who never goes anywhere without his shovel and also sleeps with it and his mother Mara,who keeps them all in line.

They decide to go on a hiking through the mountains....


Of course they were supposed to find STICKS AND STONES!!

But.....

They also find treasure hunters!!

Not ordinary bookish ones,but bad,cruel ones with grenades,guns,mini-bombs!!

And also they find snakes!!

And a mountain cougar trying to eat them!!

And many other such dangerous situations....

And somehow their ordinary,relaxing vacation turns into--

A brutal fight for survival.

Well there goes their peaceful vacation! **sigh**


"Just their luck"

So,now they'll have to decide that to what lengths are they ready to go to keep each other safe....

And guess what???

They will do anything and everything to keep each other safe!!

(Big surprise.**rolling eyes** As if I couldn’t guess this when Zane and Ty nearly died trying to save each other from that maniac killer!!

Really—It’s just three words…..three simple words….I LOVE YOU!!How difficult can it be??)

"It was alternately fascinating and painful watching Ty and Zane together.They fought and they argued,sometimes cruelly.But Ty had brought Zane here,hoping Deuce would help him,and Zane had been willing to leap into that river with nothing but dumb luck as a lifeline just on the off chance that he might be able to help Ty.They were a study in extremes and as much as they denied,they seemed well matched."

And Ty--

"He would take on that mountain lion with his bare hands before it touched Zane;he knew that much for certain"

***SIGH***


And at last,at last Ty realizes that he loves Zane.....

" "You're okay," Zane said quietly but clearly."Just focus on me for a few minutes.What's the first thing that comes to your mind?"

Ty blinked at him,opening his mouth as the very first thing that came to mind when Zane prompted him.

I LOVE YOU."

But does he tell him that??No.(idiot)

And Zane...he's still fighting his feelings for Ty!!

(Come on both of you,you're killing me here!!)

Now, the official psychological analysis of their partnership by Deuce---

" As a unit,they are largely uncooperative,unorganized,antagonistic towards each other,stubborn when problems arise,and they conceal their weaknesses from each other and sometimes from themselves.But somehow,it works for them.They trust each other.They're firecely loyal to each other as well.When there's an outside force working against them,they'll pull it together in one way or another and defend one another.Viciously,if need be."

"They aren't fit to be partnered with anyone but each other," he said wryly."They'd drive anyone else crazy." "


Well said Deuce.


BRAVO!!


All right then,you go and grab Sticks and Stones and I am off to Fish and Chips.....

Ta-Ta!!!

[Wendys Wycked Words · Rating 5 out of 5]

Doing another series re-read...need my Ty and Zane fix !! 2/2020

Holy shit...it just keeps getting better. I think I may have a Ty and Zane addiction going on. Damn those two are awesome. This book was milder on the action and more focused on the emotions of the two men. There were some steamy scenes that made my face blush and my toes curling. Wow...can't wait to read the next one. I'm hoping this one will be just as good. I love this new addiction I've got going !! 5 stars

[Meags · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 Stars

Read #2: November 2017

It seems I never reviewed this one the first time around. I must have been too excited about continuing the series to stop and get my thoughts down.

I feel like this is one of those series that you actually benefit from a re-read. I noticed so many more little details along the way and I was better at analysing the conversations for deeper meanings. I found myself enjoying this more because of the insight I already had; I guess this insight comes easy with the foreknowledge of what’s in store for Ty and Zane.

During my original marathon of this series, Sticks & Stones was the book I considered my least favourite of the bunch. I’m not sure why that was/is but I think it may have a lot to do with Ty’s father and the fact that I blame all the action and drama that unfolds (while the boys are hiking) on Earl Grady and his stubborn, arrogant, overbearing bullshit.

If his father hadn’t bullied Ty into following his decision to investigate what was going on in the mountains, then everyone would have been safe and happy and unhurt by beatings, near drownings, animal attacks, and even harsh (unforgivable) words. Sure, there may not have been a story here had Earl Grady not gotten his way, but the whole situation (still) enrages me and makes me want to smack him around a bit.

On the plus side, the more I read about Ty and Zane the more deeply I fall down the fangirl rabbit hole. I love the slow-burn pace that unfolds regarding their feelings for one another, and I especially love getting inside Ty’s mind and witnessing his Zane related revelations towards the end.

Ultimately, Sticks & Stones proved to be another exciting read, with plenty of action and adventure, as well as some solid relationship progression that we all know leads to the most epic of love stories.

******************************

Read #3: March 2024

The more times I read this instalment, the more I appreciate it. It may still not be my favourite within this personally beloved 9-part series, but it plays a damn important role in terms of exemplary character development and relationship progression for Ty and Zane.

Also, the writing is notably improved from book one, which is a HUGE relief.

It’s been ten years since I first read this series (and a further five years since it was first released) but I can confidently say that this book and this series still holds up today—so much so, that it’s making me realised how little I connect and adore book couples nowadays (no offence), compared to the way I fawned and obsessed over genre-legends like Ty and Zane (still unmatched).

I’ll leave you with a favourite quote from Deacon “Deuce” Grady, Ty’s brother and shrink extraordinaire:

“As a unit, they are largely uncooperative, unorganized, antagonistic toward each other, stubborn when problems arise, and they conceal their weaknesses from each other and sometimes from themselves. But somehow, it works for them. They trust each other. They’re fiercely loyal to each other, as well. When there’s an outside force working against them, they pull it together in one way or another and defend one another. Viciously, if need be. Zane Garrett stood up to my father, Dick. More than once.” He paused to allow that information to sink in and then continued. “In my professional opinion, they aren’t fit to be partnered with anyone but each other,” he said wryly. “They’d drive anyone else crazy.”

Cut & Run universe READING ORDER

Cut & Run 1 - Cut & Run (4 Stars)
Cut & Run 2 - Sticks & Stones (4.5 Stars)
Cut & Run 3 - Fish & Chips (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 4 - Divide & Conquer (5 Stars)
Julian Cross - Warrior's Cross (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 5 - Armed & Dangerous (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 6 - Stars & Stripes (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 7 - Touch & Geaux (4.5 Stars)
Sidewinder 1 - Shock & Awe (5 Stars)
Cut & Run 8 - Ball & Chain (4.5 Stars)
Sidewinder 2 - Cross & Crown (4.5 Stars)
Cut & Run 9 - Crash & Burn (5 Stars)
Sidewinder 3 - Part & Parcel (5 Stars)

[Virginia Ronan ♥ Herondale ♥ · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m on BookTube now! =)

”Zane felt the knot in his chest relax as Ty touched him. They so rarely shared tender moments like this. When they came along, they were at the same time welcome and disturbing. Zane was never sure whether he wanted more of them or wanted to run from them.”

Ahh, damn!!! Those two are killing me and I’m loving every second of it. I dunno what that makes me. A masochist? A person who likes to suffer alongside their MCs? Someone who seeks heartache in their romance? Hurt/comfort? Maybe? ¯\_(ツ)_/¯ What I DO know, is that I’ve waited four freaking years to finally continue with this series and boy, was it worth the wait!!! I just loved to read about Ty and Zane and it was so nice to be back in their world and to see how they fared after the events of the first book. Which is to say, not all too well.

Their first case did quite a number on both of them and our MCs are still struggling and fighting their inner demons at the beginning of “Sticks & Stones”. Their physical examinations always go well, but their psychological evaluation leaves much to be desired, which is the main reason their boss sends them on vacation. Neither Zane nor Ty know what to do with their off-time so Ty decides to visit his family and asks Zane if he wants to come along with him. Since Zane’s options are limited, he agrees to go with him and that’s when we get to know Ty’s family.

“This is Special Agent Ty Grady, who was raised by wolves, if that makes any of you feel better about getting your asses kicked,” he said, pointing at Ty.

And no, Ty wasn’t raised by wolves… but it’s pretty close. *lol* Just kidding! I really loved to get to know his family and no matter if it was his grandpa with his shovel, his brother Deuce or his mom Mara, I loved them all. I liked Earl too, but boy was he a piece of work. I totally get why Ty is the way he is and that statement at the beginning of the book was probably truer than Ty wanted to admit.

“Why do you need a shrink?” Earl asked him again.
“I have daddy issues,” Ty answered with a smirk.
Earl pointed his fork at him and narrowed his eyes as he chewed, though there was a hint of amusement in his expression.

It was extremely interesting to see Ty interact with his family and they had quite an intriguing dynamic. It was obvious that Ty loved them all dearly and this alone was such a change to the Ty we got to know in the first book. He might be a daredevil that always goes his way and doesn’t allow things to get too close to him, but this definitely didn’t apply to his family. The respect he had for his parents and the love he felt for Deuce and his grandpa showed his softer side and I was so here for it. Well, and yes, I admit it; I was here for the funny banter as well. *lol*

"I don't do too well sleeping in strange places lately, but..."
"Well, Ty's bed is about as strange a place as you can get," Deuce offered under his breath. He followed it with a muffled grunt as Ty kicked him under the table.
"Don't mind them, we dropped 'em both on their heads when they was little," Mara assured Zane as she moved back to her stove, where two different skillets sizzled.

Anyway! Moving on! XD Ty and his family decide to go hiking on a trail in the mountains and take Zane with them. It’s supposed to be a nice trip in nature, so what could possibly go wrong? Well, let me answer that one for you: Basically everything?! The moment they set foot on the trail, something doesn’t feel right and they get into a storm that makes it hard to follow their route. They manage to get through it, though and come across a ranger that tells them to return home because some people recently got missing in the mountains. Earl, Ty’s father who must have passed on his stubbornness to Ty, decides to continue on their way, though and from there on out it’s madness. Let’s just say they find out what happened to the missing people the hard way and suddenly survival becomes the most important thing.

”You pull that trigger, and you won’t live to regret it,” Zane told them quietly. “That’s a promise.”
He was aware of Earl’s attention focusing on him, and Deuce’s, too, but Zane didn’t care what they thought. If Earflaps shot him, Zane had no doubt Ty would kill him. Ty would kill him, and the others, too, in front of his father and brother. It would be messy. And Ty would regret it later, if only because Earl and Deuce had to watch.

Both, Ty as well as Zane, go through a lot in this book and in addition to the outside threat on their lives and in Ty’s case, the threat on the people he loves and cares about, they also have to fight their own traumas and fears. I swear the authors did this so well, it was outstanding and marvellous to watch! To read about their struggles felt so real and I could empathize with both of them. Ty is forced to deal with his PTSD and his father’s harsh words (I will never forgive you for that Earl!!!) and Zane is pressured to face the problems that caused him to go on an ordered vacation. It was hard to read about their problems and I felt so sorry for Ty. I think one of the most interesting things about this trip was the fact that Ty goes into it sane and that the reader actually worries about Zane, but then the balance shifts and the reader realizes that there’s so much Ty has suppressed and ignored that it gets him closer to the edge than Zane ever was. This trip certainly had it in it. >_<

"He'd never seen Ty behave this way, as if someone had just taken all the spirit and fight in him and crushed it to dust. It was acutely painful to see, especially after seeing him so relaxed and carefree just a few hours ago."

Not only when it came to fighting their inner demons but also when it came to them constantly trying to downplay their feelings for each other. No, seriously, it was so painful to watch. You see how much they care about each other, how much they love each other, yet they are both worried to show their affection openly. Sure, Ty’s father is a huge part of it because they don’t know how he’ll react to them being together, but they also don’t even dare to hope that the other would love them back. It hurt. So, so, so much. Please someone put me out of my misery and tell me that they’ll be happier in the next book! They are so good for each other and I just want them to know that too!

”Strong enough to take care of yourself,” Zane added pointedly.
Ty rolled his eyes. “You think I could have taken care of myself after being shot in the back with a twelve gauge?” he posed.
“That’s why I killed him,” Zane said bluntly.

I just love how Zane tried to be there for Ty while at the same time giving him room to figure out things for himself. Also the way he supported Ty was such a stark contrast to how Earl treated his son. With Earl it was tough love, but Zane provided a nourishing environment full of trust and encouragement. It was just so beautiful to see how this helped Ty to find his footing once again. And I have to mention it here: It was also lovely how Deuce helped Zane to address his issues and to face his fears. He did it in such a sensitive manner that Zane wasn’t even aware of being psychoanalyzed. XD Way to go, Deuce! Ty’s brother has definitely become one of my favourite side characters in this series.

”His fingers dragged slowly across the back of Zane’s neck, as if he didn’t want to forget what the contact felt like. Deuce felt a pang of anger and sadness as he watched them. As sick as Ty was, the two of them were still careful of showing too much intimacy for fear of how Earl would react to it. Deuce swallowed against a knot in his throat and gritted his teeth.”

Give me amazing, open-minded, brave and supportive siblings like Deuce every day!! I love that Deuce realized them loving each other faster than they even did themselves. Well, to be fair Zane is still getting there, which is the reason it broke my freaking heart when Ty started to acknowledge his feelings for Zane. My poor and precious Ty, hurt and in so much pain, going through even more pain because of his father and then in addition to all that, he’s confronted with the undeniable fact that he actually loves Zane.

”You’re okay,” Zane said quietly but clearly. “Just focus on me for a few minutes. What’s the first thing that comes to mind?” While talking, he was gently wiping away the blood.
Ty blinked at him, opening his mouth as he thought the very first thing that came to mind when Zane prompted him: I love you. He snapped his mouth closed and stared at Zane, unable and unwilling to answer.

THAT MOMENT IN THE BOOK!!!! I think I died and came back to the living in the same moment. ARGH, the pain! It’s not like Zane doesn’t feel the same way, though! I know he does, we have enough moments in his mind to see that he cares about Ty more than he wants to admit, but that’s exactly the problem. Ty finally arrived at the point where he can admit, at least to himself, that he loves Zane, but Zane isn’t there yet and still tries to reason his feelings away. Ty is already at the stage of “I love you and want to be with you”, while Zane is at “I don’t want to lose you, but I don’t know why I care so much.” XD It’s driving me crazy! Especially because Zane does things like THIS:

Zane lifted his hand and cupped Ty’s cheek, turning Ty’s chin so he couldn’t look away. “You listen to me, Beaumont Tyler Grady. You are a wise-cracking, stubborn, annoying pain in the ass who lives to cause trouble. You’re also a brave, courageous, and valiant Marine who puts his life on the line for what he believes and for those he loves. There is no way you have ever been or ever will be a coward. It simply isn’t you.”

My heart!!!! Rip it out, Zane, will you?! I’m still feeling all the feels here and I’ve finished this book a month ago!!! A. Month. Ago! They’ll be the death of me, I know it. And I honestly can’t help but wonder when Zane will come to the realisation that he loves Ty, too. His gestures already speak volumes, so I hope it’s just a matter of time until he’ll be able to admit that he’s head over heels for his partner as well. I think Deuce has a very clear picture of their dynamic and I can only agree with him and his thoughts. Maybe we’ll see more of Deuce in the next books? I hope we will, because he’s a really interesting character and one I’d love to read more about.

”They were a study in extremes, and as much as they denied it, they seemed well matched. After watching Zane take Ty’s face in his hands and lean forward to speak to him – when it had very much looked like he’d been about to kiss him – Deuce suspected they were better matched than they knew themselves.”

And heaven help me, if Earl doesn’t apologize in one of the following books of this series, I’ll kick in his door and drag him to his son so he finally tells him the truth!!! I’m still so mad at Earl, I can’t even. I just want to hug Ty’s pain away. <3 I think I felt this so hard, because I can relate to Ty so much. We’re very similar in the way we act around others and behave. Always brushing off things and trying not to let them get too close to us, but we take the words of our loved ones seriously, and sometimes they hurt more than anything else does. >_< Fingers crossed Earl will come around and see the error of his ways.

Conclusion:

After waiting four years to finally get my hands on a copy of “Sticks & Stones” I can say that it was worth the long wait! I’m so glad the books of this series are available again and I can’t wait to dive into the next instalment! I just love everything about those books, from the characters and their struggles to the way they interact with each other and fight for what is right. Plus, every book is extremely suspenseful and the mixture of spicy scenes and plot is always balanced! Ty and Zane are two very complex characters that have taken my heart by storm and I don’t want to have it back. At least not until I’ve read all the other 7 books of this series at which point they’ll no doubt, be an indispensable part of my heart already.
All the stars in the world, and then some. ;-P

______________________________

I swear one day Ty and Zane will be the death of me!!!
Those two men and their suppressed feelings! UGH! *dies*
I can’t say much right now because I need to digest this but boy, for a vacation plot this was extremely suspenseful! >_<
Also Ty Grady has my heart and soul. I love him so much it’s not normal anymore.

Full RTC soon! I need to gather my thoughts.
_______________________________

I’m totally giving into my mood reader heart right now, which apparently means I’m on a m/m romance reading binge. There’s no other explanation for me starting with “Sticks & Stones” even though I made my way through two other m/m books recently. *lol*

Anyway! I’ve waited four long years to finally be able to buy and read “Sticks & Stones” so I’m not gonna wait a single minute longer. ;-P
Plus Ty Grady is my hero and I just need him and Zane back in my life. XD

Here goes nothing! =)

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________________________

OMG!! OMG!!!
My prayers have been heard & answered!!! I can buy all books now!!!
Holy! Oh my! This is the best thing that happened today!
Legit the best! <333
After 4 years of waiting for this series to be available again it finally is!
*faints of happiness*
________________________

How come this isn't available on Amazon anymore?
You gotta be kidding me, Amazon! =(((

Ahhh please someone tell me this will be available again!
I wanted to read this for ages and now that I decided to go for it I can't. T_T
Apparently they don't even have it as an e-book?
What kind of evil sorcery is this?
Not fair. *sniff*

[Elise ✘ a.k.a Ryder's Pet ✘ · Rating 3 out of 5]

Forth re-read: 09.09.2021
Someone wrote this "I didn’t understand their dynamics. They were fighting one moment and fucking the next. Yeah I know, this sounds like the usual enemies-to-lovers fight but trust me, it was bad" in their review for another book and I somewhat felt that this was fitting for this book as well. Sometimes I'm struggling with Ty and Zane's dynamics; one second they are smiling, the next fists are flying, and I'm like; what just happened? But other than that, I do now remember why I love Ty. He's a great character. I love him. Zane.... unsure. He hides so much, even from himself, that I feel a bit detached from him. Overall, I still enjoyed this book, I still absolutely love Ty and I will continue this re-read. Probably until I've read book six.

⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*Ty. Enough said.*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱

Third re-read: 09.04.2018
GR is fucking up again; my status updates didn't show up/got deleted. This has actually happened to me once before. I hope they fix it. And soon. Now, to the book, I'm in a real struggle to find books that seems interesting these days and I'm feeling short of book to re-read. I decided to just re-read this one because it's Ty. I love Ty with all my heart. He's my favorite character and I just want to hug and protect him from the world. Overall, I liked the re-read, but something is stopping me from really enjoying it. I'm so damn picky that it isn't even funny.

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.

Other characters:
↦ Richard ‘Dick’ Burns, the Assistant Director of the Criminal Investigative Division
↦ Deacon ‘Deuce’ Grady, Ty's brother and a psychiatrist, aka a shrink (though he doesn't like to be called that).
↦ Earl Grady, Ty's father and Mara Grady, his mother.
↦ Chester Grady, Ty's grandpa.

What he was afraid of, he’d come to realize, was not dark spaces or falling from great heights or being buried alive. His greatest fears, in the end, were letting down those he loved and saying the words “I love you” without any hope of hearing them in return.
He knew, deep down somewhere, that if he fell for Zane Garrett, he’d be falling alone.

――――♥TY IS MY BABY AND WILL ALWAYS BE MY BABY!♥――――

⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱*MY BABY TY*⋰⋱⋰⋱⋰⋱

Second re-read: 08.06.2017
I have no clue why I suddenly found myself re-reading this one. It's probably because I love FBI Special Agent Beaumont Tyler ‘Ty’ Grady with everything I am. It might also be that no new books interested me anymore, specially not M/F books. Shit, I'm screwed. What to read next....I have a feeling it's gonna be yet another one from this series. I kinda want to re-read book #6 again. A book I read last week...

Sticks and stones may build your homes,
but words will lift your spirits.

Anyways, I still kinda hate Earl. I adore Deacon, and FBI Special Agent Zane Garrett is awesome and I love his protectiveness towards Ty, even though I wish he had stepped up a little more when it came to Earl but I understand why he didn't. I don't think I need to mention Ty, do I? Just in case: HE IS MY WHOLE WORLD. Oh and the story was still interesting, the more Ty, the better.

First read review:
This book was a lot better than the first one. I liked the story; action filled with heartbreaking moments and even some hot ones. I loved how we are getting to know Ty and Zane more, and how closer they are getting. And damn, Ty just had to steal my heart, didn't he. He went through so much and he's still standing. Amazing. On to the next one then...

Ty Grady: I love you!
Zane Garrett: I have quite some mixed feeling about you... The verdict is still up.
Deacon Grady: You're awesome.
Earl Grady: I want to slap you. Fuck you for hurting my Ty.

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”

Quick basic facts:
Genre: - (Adult) Contemporary Romance (M/M)
Series: - Series, Book Two
Love triangle? - No.
Cheating? - No.
HEA? - Open ending?
Favorite character? - Beaumont Tyler ‘Ty’ Grady.
Would I read more by this author/or of series? - Sure.
Would I recommend this book/series? - Sure.
Will I read this again in the future? - No.
Rating - 3.5 stars.

[* A Reader Obsessed * · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 Stars! - Reread 3/12/24

This.

This right here.

The denial the longing the fear the caring the need the struggle the antagonism the chemistry the fighting the snark the lust.

And yes, the love.

Heady stuff, this imperfect duo. *sigh*

———————

5 Stars!

*Update - Reread 2/5/15*

The boys are back again, and despite becoming official work partners, each wonders how their romantic feelings fit in their new dynamic, if at all.

As Ty and Zane soon find out, their forced vacation is anything but a nice escape. They're faced with extreme life and death situations, all of which solidify their trust in each other and strengthen their new partnership. It also forces them to reflect on feels they don't want to have or are too afraid to look at closely.

What's not in question is their insatiable lust for each other, and their chemistry is combustible. Actions do speak louder than words, and it's an exciting ride as we watch these two fall more for each other despite their own hang ups and reservations. Though they don't know it yet, neither stands a chance at the inevitable,and we wouldn't have it any other way.


Cut & Run Series
1. Cut & Run - 5 Stars
2. Sticks & Stones - 5 Stars
3. Fish & Chips - 5 Stars
4. Divide & Conquer - 5 Stars
Warrior’s Cross - 4.5 Stars
5. Armed & Dangerous - 5 Stars
6. Stars & Stripes 5 Stars
7. Touch & Geaux - 5 Stars
Shock & Awe (Sidewinder #1) - 5 Stars
8. Ball & Chain - 5 Stars
Cross & Crown (Sidewinder #2) - 4.5 Stars
9. Crash & Burn - 5 Stars
Part & Parcel (Sidewinder #3) - 5 Stars

[Mo · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed this one but I think I enjoyed the first book more. I have already started book 3 and I have already had some real LOL moments so, for the moment I am going to rate this 4 stars.



Loved meeting Ty's family. Liked Deacon (Deuce) a lot.

“Once you admit to yourself that you are or aren't something, then you can begin searching for the reason why," Deuce went on. "And once you've found that, you can begin to take steps toward making it better. So, tell yourself you're an asshole, stop being an asshole, your problem's solved," Deuce said in a pleased voice.”

“Hell would be more relaxing than this," Zane muttered as he glared at the water. "And I could get a tan.”

"Your family is ... nice."

“Sticks and stones may break my bones,but words will never hurt me.”

One kiss from Ty never failed to make Zane want more.

And Grandpa Grady was a hoot.


Mr Grady Snr. Mmmm, not sure what to think of you just yet.


ZANE



TY

[Heather K (dentist in my spare time) · Rating 4 out of 5]

TY and ZANE TY AND ZANE TY AND ZANE!

I am so into this series it is not even funny.

What I love, other than hot hot hot M-M romantic and sexual tension, is the sloooow build. It is such a nice change of pace from the PNRs I've been reading where it is love at first sight and declarations of undying love in the first chapter. I like the complexity of their relationship and the baggage they bring. It makes the series so interesting and engaging. It reminds me in some ways of the buildup in the Kate Daniels series. I seriously can't wait to see how their relationship unfolds.

This book was wonderful and well written and jam packed with adventure. On to the next one....

[Nancy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Cross-posted at Shelf Inflicted and at Outlaw Reviews

It’s just as well FBI agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett are required to take a mandatory vacation after failing their psychological evaluations. Six months later, they are still haunted by the Tri-State murders. A relaxing hike, a chance for the guys to explore their simmering attraction, and spending time with Ty’s family is just what they need.

“If Zane could survive a trip to West Virginia to meet the Gradys, he could live through anything. Like a cockroach.”

It’s not that easy, though, as both guys are great at keeping a lid on their emotions. On top of that, they are each dealing with issues from their pasts. Zane is hurting from the death of his wife and recovering from an addiction to drugs and alcohol. Ty is a former Marine who is suffering from PTSD, troubled by nightmares and flashbacks.

While this story is not as action-packed as the first, there are very gripping moments that had this reader flipping pages well into the evening. It began with the mysterious ATV tracks and ended with Ty’s sorry encounter with a cougar. Though they have to deal with bad guys on the trail, the focus of this story was on Ty’s and Zane’s deepening relationship and the interaction with Ty’s family.

I especially liked Ty’s brother, Deacon, who is a psychiatrist and more aware of how Ty and Zane feel about each other than they are themselves. His mother, Mara, is warm, loving, protective, and bakes amazing pies. Ty’s father, Earl, has a gruff, military bearing. The complicated relationship he has with his sons made it difficult for me to warm up to him, but there was no question his love was strong, especially when Ty’s life was in danger.

Just like in the first book, there were unbelievable scenes and stupid mistakes made. The writing style seems a bit more controlled, or maybe I’m just getting used to it. I love the slow-burning romance, the humorous banter, and the tension in Ty’s and Zane’s relationship.

“What he was afraid of, he’d come to realize, was not dark spaces or falling from great heights or being buried alive. His greatest fears, in the end, were letting down those he loved and saying the words “I love you” without any hope of hearing them in return.” 

I’m enjoying this series so far and look forward to more danger and thrills, as well as seeing Ty and Zane overcoming their fears and insecurities.

Thanks to Barbie from Bookie Nookie's Erotic Lending Group for lending this to me.

[Shurrn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ty & Zane can't seem to catch a break... The quest to get their heads straight quickly turns into the worst vacation in the history of vacations...


(All Spoilers are Hidden)

"How about after this we agree not to say the word 'vacation' again, okay? Actually, no, we agree to not even think the word 'vacation' again."

Ty glanced sideways at him. "We'll use code," he agreed. "Call it time off. time off from hell."

"Hell would be more relaxing than this," Zane muttered [...] "And I could get a tan."

After the action-packed fiasco that was the Tri-State Case from Cut & Run, Agents Ty Grady and Zane Garrett have been languishing behind desks at the DC Bureau. There was a lot of paperwork to catch up on and healing to do before Burns would send our boys back into the field...

Unfortunately mental scars don't heal as fast as broken bones... Ty and Zane are on the verge of being forced into early retirement if they don't pass their psychological evaluations. Burns has no choice but to force the pair into taking a long vacation, and orders suggests they make the journey to West Virginia to visit Ty's Family.

Zane wondered if Ty was a mama’s boy. He tipped his head to the side, watching them as he picked out a piece of warm bread, and thought maybe so. Not that he would ever voice that opinion to Ty until he was good and ready to die.

We've been fed bits and pieces of information regarding Ty's family - specifically that they're close with Director Burns. This book opens the floodgates to information from Ty's past and his complicated relationship with his family. All of the information served to round out Ty's character into one whose motives and actions (particularly toward Zane) become clearer.

Side Note : I adored Ty's Mom and Grandfather. They weren't necessarily featured players in this book, but Abigail Roux has a way of making her secondary and tertiary characters into vibrant individuals...

After visiting with the family and resting up from the long drive, Ty, Zane, Earl (Ty's Father), and Deuce (Ty's bother) set out for a leisurely trek across the hostile mountains... Because there's no way that could possibly go wrong...



THIS BOOK WAS AL ABOUT THE BATTLES WE WAGE...
The group battled against the mountain...
Weather,
wildlife,
trails,
time...
The Grady's battled against each-other...
Father vs. son,
expectations vs. reality,
brother vs. brother,
concern vs. pride...
Ty and Zane battled against their own minds...
Dealing with their pasts,
overcoming fears,
finding their easy connection again,
re-establishing the trust they had built...


Warning: this part is going to be spoilery if you haven't read the first book in the Cut & run series
In my review of Cut & Run I failed to mention how much I liked that the author used that particular title. The phrase was repeated by Ty and Zane throughout the book - they could always cut and run. Together they could leave all the danger behind. I thought it was a charming addition to an already awesome book. I feel obligated to mention this now, because Sticks & Stones was perfection in a title.

As I mentioned previously, the battles waged on the mountain were more about mental obstacles even in the face of physical danger. Ty and Zane have already proved that they can cheat death and come out on the other side. They have no problem with "sticks and stones" (or bombs, bullets, car chases, or serial killers) it's the "words" that hurt them.
Words which remain unsaid: by the end of this book both Ty and Zane have admitted to themselves that they have fallen in love with the other, but their insecurities are causing them to keep those words to themselves. They know that their partner would have their back in a firefight, but they aren't sure the other would welcome any emotional attachment. It's causing a huge wedge between the two.
Words said without thought: When Ty's father called him a coward, I felt the hurt along with everyone in the book. The worst possible insult, dealt by the person he respects most... It was downright rough... And it fucked up Ty's mind to a near breaking point in addition to being a duchebag thing to say to your son.

Regarding the specific obstacles they faced:
On the trail...the grenade trees were a particularly terrifying addition to the book - deadly hair-trigger booby-traps set by an unknown enemy.

I think I was shaking at the idea that one could drop at any moment. Ty & Zane's reaction to the danger as they huddled together with Earl & Deuce gave the first indication to Ty's family that the partners worked well under pressure... but were more than just a little off their rockers...
Outside of camp...When the woods go quiet as Ty takes the last remaining prisoner to pee... And Ty, the badass former Marine, started to get that "I'm being hunted" feeling... I think we all knew it was going to be a cougar...

What? No, you idiot, not that kind of cougar...

Yes, the scary "I'm going to fucking eat you" kind of cougar. Wow. The fact that Ty fought the cat off with only a nasty bite to his hand (not that prisoner # three was so lucky) only to nearly die of septic shock from the infection... Genius suspense.

I have two tiny complaints:
One - Unanswered questions: What happened with the treasure hunter camp and the traps set all over the mountain?!? At the end of the book, Burns is thinking about what agency will be in charge of securing the mountain. He even mentions that one of the suspects was never recovered... Did they ever find the treasure they were looking for? What happened to old-man-hiker John?

Two - Why didn't Ty have this T-Shirt?


Some of My Favorite Moments:

“Whatever, man,” Ty grunted, not really paying attention to Zane’s grumbling. “Let’s go blow shit up,”

Zane’s lips quirked. Every bullet fired from a service weapon had to be accompanied with a written report for the Bureau. Ty had fired… quite a few bullets at the cab that had almost smeared them across the highway in New York City. Zane didn’t know what paperwork you had to fill out for throwing your gun at something. He’d never tried that before. Hell, he’d never even thought of it before.

If Zane could survive a trip to West Virginia to meet the Gradys, he could live through anything. Like a cockroach.

Zane wondered if Ty was a mama’s boy. He tipped his head to the side, watching them as he picked out a piece of warm bread, and thought maybe so. Not that he would ever voice that opinion to Ty until he was good and ready to die.

“Don’t mind them, we dropped ’em both on their heads when they was little,” Mara assured Zane as she moved back to her stove, where two different skillets sizzled.

“I don’t know,” Ty said. “I don’t know if I love him or not. I think… I think I could if he let me,”

"...See, some people, they’re sticky like Velcro. You’re sticky. Your problems stick to you like fuzzballs from the laundry; you take them everywhere with you and people can see them plain as day. Ty, he’s like spandex. Nothing sticks to him, and he’s shiny on the outside.” 

“It’s all fun and games ’til somebody throws a grenade,”
[...]
“Never bring stones to a grenade fight,” Ty advised sagely.

“Next time you’re struggling, you tell me,” Ty said quietly. “Don’t care what it’s about. That way I don’t have to guess what you need from me.”

It was hard to open your heart to Ty; you never knew if you’d get a sincere response or a joke in return. There were some things Zane wanted to say that just couldn’t be met with a joke, and so he kept them to himself.

“I won’t let you fall.” Then he winced apologetically. Very trite. He sighed. Trite but true.

Deuce snorted. Not in love, his ass. Ty could fool Zane, maybe. He could even fool himself for a while longer. But Ty couldn’t fool Deuce, not anymore.

It probably hadn’t been the greatest idea, dragging him up here for his first hike. But Ty was sure he’d been enjoying himself before they were almost killed. Repeatedly.

At least he now he knew the truth about himself and Zane. Looking raptly into Zane’s dark eyes, Ty wondered why he hadn’t realized he loved the man earlier.

He couldn’t tear his eyes away from Ty, even knowing Deuce was watching, and Zane knew right then and there that he wouldn’t be giving Ty up without a fight. Ever.

Zane lifted his hand and cupped Ty’s cheek, turning Ty’s chin so he couldn’t look away. “You listen to me, Beaumont Tyler Grady. You are a wise-cracking, stubborn, annoying pain in the ass who lives to cause trouble. You’re also a brave, courageous, and valiant Marine who puts his life on the line for what he believes and for those he loves. There is no way you have ever been or ever will be a coward. It simply isn’t in you.”

At least he was no longer afraid of making a fool of himself in front of Zane. He wouldn’t be able to function at this point if he worried about that.

What he was afraid of, he’d come to realize, was not dark spaces or falling from great heights or being buried alive. His greatest fears, in the end, were letting down those he loved and saying the words “I love you” without any hope of hearing them in return.


My Other Reviews in the Cut & Run Series:

Cut & Run - My Review
Sticks & Stones - You're Reading It
Fish & Chips - My Review
Divide & Conquer - My Review
Armed & Dangerous - My Review
Dine & Dash - My Review
Stars & Stripes - My Review
Touch & Geaux - My Review
Ball & Chain - My Review
Crash & Burn - My Review

My Reviews in the Cut & Run Universe:
I will update the list as more books are published.
Warrior's Cross - My Review
Shock & Awe - My Review
Cross & Crown - My Review

[Jilly · Rating 3 out of 5]

Did I ever mention that I worked at Caesar's casino when I was younger? Okay, so we had Diana Ross come to perform (all of the room service people were terrified of her) but she still had less baggage than the two guys in this book have. Holy crap are they messed up in the head!



Since they are failing their psych evaluations to go back in the field, they get ordered to take a vacation and end up going to Ty's childhood home to hang with the family. Now, I don't know about you, but as far as I've seen family usually makes people crazier, not less crazy, but whatever.



This leads to them deciding to go hiking in the mountains for a week. I mean, yeah, I got that they were one stop shy of Crazytown, but this lead me to believe they were already there. Or, were fixin' on hiking there. Oh yeah, it's also in West Virginia - you know, the place where sister-wives have nothing to do with Mormonism and only involve one sister.



I liked the book and would have been fine with them just doing their thing without a mystery getting involved, but that's not how these things work. Where they go, trouble follows.

"How about after this we agree not to say the word 'vacation' again, okay? Actually, no, we agree to not even think the word 'vacation' again."

Ty glanced sideways at him. "We'll use code," he agreed. "Call it time off. Time off from hell."

"Hell would be more relaxing than this," Zane muttered "And I could get a tan."

And there is nothing better than angsting your way through the mountains, dirty, no bathrooms or running water, eating MRE's, and dealing with people trying to kill them than also having your dysfunctional family along. Yeah, Ty's dad? Total dick-head. I mean, dude seriously deserves a date with those Deliverance boys.



So, it was my frustration at the incredibly stupid decisions that were made because of the father's assholishness that led me to marking this book so low. Decisions that were laughable, and a situation utterly contrived and idiotic. The fact that the father was egging them on to take on a gang of highly armed killers - with an unknown number of people and resources was ridiculous. And, as trained FBI agents, the idea of him getting them to do something that stupid by calling them 'chicken' was ridiculous. Nobody with half a brain would have made the decision to go after the bad guys, especially when they had the brother - a physically disabled civilian - with them. It was dumb - which pissed me off. I still love the guys, but the whole daddy-dearest thing in this book was just terrible.



Also, the author needs to realize that adult human bodies can only take so much damage. If these guys are going to keep living they will need to maybe not get seriously injured for a book or two.

[Blacky *Romance Addict* · Rating 5 out of 5]

*This is a review of the audio book*

This was my first audio book, and it was fantastic! I simply LOVED it!
It's really an experience, so much different than reading. The narrator has a really great voice, and the way he did Ty and Zane just made me melt And this way I enjoyed every single part of the book, even the ordinary conversatinas were for me XD
And listening to the sex scenes I just felt naughty XD It's really different when you imagine that stuff in your head, and when you listen to the guy telling you what was happening
But the best parts were the emotional scenes (there weren't many, but still) when Ty says in that soft voice "Thank you, Zane", or the BEST part so far the first thing that comes to mind when he thinks of Zane: "I love you" I simply melted when I heard that


OK so enough with the audio parts XD

This second book is a few weeks after the first one. Both Ty and Zane are having problems, slowly drifting from one another because they still haven't dealt with the horrible things that happened to them. Zane is especially having problems, so much that he's failing his psych evals. Ty keeps everything inside, but is having problems as well. So Burns sends them on forced vacation XD They both go to Ty's place in the mountains, Zane meets the family, and they go on a trek through the mountain. There comes trouble

I love the fact that there wasn't any big case in this story, they found trouble in the mountains and dealt with it. Actually, the way I see it, the main story here was Ty and Zane's state of mind, them dealing with their problems and realizing their emotions
They are both SO complex, I could read about them forever! There is so much that we still don't know about them, and we are slowly discovering all their layers. They're both a little wrong in the head hahahahah but they deal with it the best when they're together, that's why they're the perfect partners
I think a lot of time will pass untill they both come to terms with their feelings to one another, but I'm looking forward them slowly discovering it <3

BTW, I loved Ty's brother His father was an ass sometimes, I wanted to kick him But it's nice to see Ty with his weird family heheheh XD

The ending left me misty-eyed and happy it was just perfect

I'm jumping to book #3

[Em Lost In Books · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5*

[*J* Too Many Books Too Little Time · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Stars!

I think I liked this one about as much as the first one, maybe a little bit more. I loved how this one was completely different from book 1.

Stick & Stones didn't exactly revolve around a case, but there was no shortage of action and suspense.

Still very little romance, which would have to be my only complaint. However, there is enough sexual tension and attraction there to really keep me invested. And as always, Ty and Zane's banter is lol funny.

We get introduced to Ty's family...some of which I liked more than others.

You can see Ty and Zane's relationship growing and developing. It's these little moments that really keep me hooked and wanting to see where things go.

A really good series so far!

[Lisazj1 · Rating 5 out of 5]

*3rd read 2020*

Every time is just as good as the first time. 🥰 LOLOL, “Meow Mix”. 😂😂 God, I love them!!

*re-read 2018*

OMG, these guys slay me. That will never change and I'll never get tired of it. <3

*1st read 2012*

Frankly, after skimming a few of the reviews for this book before starting it, I was prepared to be a little disappointed. The general consensus seemed to be sort of "not nearly as exciting but we still love Ty & Zane". But that's not how I felt at all.

So, ok. The guys were not chasing killers around. Ty & Zane have been given desk jobs after catching the Tri-State killer in New York, kind of to allow them to decompress. Zane is in really bad shape mentally after all the things that happened to them there, he's having a really hard time dealing. Director Burns makes both of them take a vacation before evals to send them back out in field work, and since he's a personal friend of Ty's dad, suggests that Ty should go home and see his family. And Ty takes Zane with him. Though it did sound a lot less exciting reading the blurb, it was so much more emotionally intense. I was floored, both by the things that happen and the things that come out between them.

Ty takes Zane home to Bluefield, West Virginia. There Zane meets Ty's dad Earl, his mom Mara, his brother Deacon and his Grandpa Chester. Ty's family is really close. I loved how they treated Zane like he was family too, and from the things he's said he doesn't have that with his own family. But not only are they all close, they're funny as hell, you can see where Ty gets his sense of humor. Zane is talking to Earl and tells him they're all "something else" and Earl tells him the boys call it the "galloping crazies". I laughed my ass off, because that's about right.

Ty, Zane, Deacon & Earl are going to make a trail hike over the mountain they live on. This is something they apparently do all the time when they manage to be home together. That sounds pretty cool, huh? Should be nice and relaxing. Except that it's not. I swear to God, these boys can't catch a break. I really can't say too much about what happens but by the end of the book, I can't blame Zane for hating the word 'vacation'.

This book really focused on the relationship between Ty & Zane, the chemistry and the emotional intensity that's there. It's still not a romance. But there is so much between them and they're both having a hard time coping with it. They are so fiercely protective of each other. The times that they have to look after each other on that mountain, both of them do whatever it takes, no matter what the threat is.

In Cut & Run, I formed so many suppositions about what Ty felt and what Zane felt. Both of them play it pretty close, they don't show too much. But this knocked all I thought I knew right out. These guys are pretty freaking hardcore badasses, so each bit of tenderness, every thought they have that makes my heart clench (and there are quite a few), just twists me right up.

Ty's family were great characters (not even going to use the word secondaries, they SO were not), every single one of them were very vividly drawn. Mara was an awesome mom, I loved how she was with Zane, he needs that a lot. Chester cracked my ass up, I hope I'm that much fun when I get old(er). And Ty's brother Deacon was so great, I loved him. I loved how he was with Ty, I loved how he helped Zane. Earl, well. I didn't him love so much, he was kind of a hard man. He damn sure made my shit-list. Meeting him did explain a lot of what made Ty who he is though.

Before I started this I saw one review that said something like this: "These books are inaccurately titled. They should be "become addicted to Ty & Zane" and I have to say that's pretty apt. I don't usually stick with a series one book after the other because there's too much I want to read. But these guys....I don't know. The authors have made Ty & Zane so raw and damaged, yet so damn funny and sweet that you don't just love them, you're invested in them, in what happens to them, in their happiness and them being ok.

Loved the ending, loved! I was really, honestly surprised. But happy! So, I'm off to read Fish & Chips. *After I re-read the ending, one more time* :)

[Lucie V. · Rating 4 out of 5]

✅ 2 POVs
✅ Ty and Zane
✅ Ty's (slightly crazy) family
✅ Some smut
✅ Alpha men still unable to talk about their feelings 🤭
✅ Relationship development / Reflection on relationship
✅ Action and survival in nature
✅(🆗) Plot (one part of the plot feels unresolved)
❗️❗️Trigger warnings: deaths, shooting, drowning, explosions, PTSD/flashbacks, attempted murder, animal attack

_______________________

Second read: Yeah, sure, they’re just “partners with benefits”. 🤭
I’d forgotten how funny Chester is.

_______________________


After the Tri-State killer case was closed and they spent the following months apart, Ty and Zane are working together again, but they have been given desk jobs until they can both pass their psychological evaluation. Ty is anxious to return to the field, but Zane is struggling with the aftermath of everything that happened. When Director Burns forces them both to take a little vacation and encourages Ty to see his family, Ty decides to bring Zane along for the trip.

I expected this series to have a different investigation in each book, but this one is like a break between two investigations. It focuses more on the relationship development between Ty and Zane, allowing them time to reflect on their feelings. I liked the story, but it took a while for the plot and action to pick up. Instead of being about a crime to solve, Zane, Ty, and his father and brother find themselves in the middle of a mountain, fighting to survive after they stumbled upon an illegal operation during their trek. Even though it's not relevant for the rest of the series (I think), I would have loved to have a conclusion regarding the mysterious group of men killing people in the mountain to keep their treasure a secret. I feel that it's an unresolved situation, and it slightly annoys me.

Each of them seemed to deal with life’s little absurdities in stride, something Zane had never really figured out how to do.

Ty’s family is a little crazy and intense, but I loved their interactions so much! It was a nice change of scenery from the first book and a very different vibe. They are closely knit, and it was sweet to see how they accepted Zane into their fold and treated him like one of them from the start. Especially since it’s been hinted a few times that Zane doesn’t have a very good relationship with the rest of his family. We could feel his envy and amazement at seeing Ty’s family being (mostly) supportive, laughing together, and loving each other.

Still, there were also tensions between Ty and his father, and I love how Zane did not hesitate to stand up to Earl Grady. Ty seems not to care about anyone’s opinion, but it is clear he wants his dad to be proud of him, and would do just about anything to prove himself to him, and it broke my heart to see how Ty felt like he still needed to prove himself after everything he’s been through. I am glad that Earl was put back in his place and ended up feeling guilty about his behavior.

They were a study in extremes, and as much as they denied it, they seemed well matched.

As I said, this book focused less on the plot and more on the relationship between Zane and Ty. It’s still not an established romance, because they both say that they don’t love each other, and that it’s just fooling around (riiiiiiight), but it's clear as day that they are falling hard for each other. We can see the growing emotional intensity between them; it’s not just about physical release anymore. They care about each other’s feelings, too, and they trust each other with their life. The weird, violent chemistry and sexual tension are still there from the first book, but deeper and steadier somehow. They understand each other better and know how to deal with the darker side of the other, instead of just turning everything into a pissing contest or running away like they did in Cut & Run.

I loved Zane and Ty more in this book. They grew on me even more. I love how they’re flawed, damaged, and imperfect, but try their best for each other, and manage to complete each other perfectly, despite being slightly dysfunctional most of the time, too. There is so much denial and fear of accepting and naming their feelings. I love them both, but I can’t wait for them to be able to truly talk about their feelings… But at the same time, I am enjoying the slow burn and the funny, emotionally stilted conversation they have, so I can’t really complain.

Overall, the writing felt smoother, and the change of points of view was less jarring and confusing. The characters felt more solid (if that makes any sense), and I know I am just going to fall even more in love with them as the series progresses.



1. Cut & Run ⭐⭐⭐⭐

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[Rach · Rating 5 out of 5]

Oh the things I have to write about this wonderful book!!! It makes me all giddy inside thinking of them both :)


In this book you really get to know Ty and Zane even better and fall in love with them even more! The emotions within the book vary from hurt, anger and stubbornness to concern, gentleness and LOVE!

Ty and Zane both have their issues, which are better explained as the story unfolds. They admit that they can read each others minds as partners, yet as lovers/friends they barely know each other.

I felt the song Ache by James Carrington http://m.youtube.com/watch?feature=re... best describes Ty and Zane's relationship with each other. Their lives have changed since meeting each other, they have many things which are unsaid between them and they both ache for each other in a response to the pain their partner is feeling and their love for the other person.

In the book you meet Ty's family. Ty has a very strenuous relationship with his Father Earl, due to the high expectations he has of his son. When Earl called Ty a coward, I was horrified! Then when Ty said he felt he'd 'failed spectacularly in front of the only person he'd ever wanted to make proud of him' I cried for him

The title 'sticks and stones' comes from when Ty is chastised by his Father; the hurt he feels crushes his spirit. I agree with Ty when he said
'sticks and stones may break my bones, but words may never hurt me! Whoever came up with the that deserved a few sticks and stones to the head'



Ty shoulders a lot of blame for things, failures hit him hard and he feels very protective of those he cares for around him. His tough outer skin is a protective mechanism in place to guard his feelings, yet underneath it the hurt he feels for those he loves, when they are hurting is felt deeply by him.

Zane feelings for Ty are strong and when he is hurting Zane feels it and try's to protect him from it. Zane being the more open of the two still struggles to know when to open up to Ty as he is never sure if the response is going to be sarcastic, yet he understands that is a reflex Ty uses.

Their relationship together is deepening and they protect each other at all costs even compromising their own safety. The gentle way they touch each other is EVEN better than the sex and that is saying something. There is one scene in the woods which had me panting for breath haha!
I LOVE the way they touch each others faces, brush hands together, calm each other down and hold each other. Their gentleness with each other makes my heart melt.

Favourite quotes (although there were many) are-
Zane- 'I need it...I need you'
Zane- 'I'm here for you. You know that right? I won't let you fall'
Ty- 'I like being able to wake up to you. I like knowing you'll be there if I need you!'
Zane- 'just focus on me...what's the first thing that comes to mind?' Ty thought 'I love you' but he was unwilling to answer'
I'm glad they didn't say I love you to each otherness this book as I don't think their relationship is at the right phase to say it yet

[⊱ Poppy ⊰ · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zane & Ty are on vacation in west-by God-virginia!! and YEAH for them vacation is as close as hell !!

"How about after this we agree not to say the word 'vacation' again, okay? Actually, no, we agree to not even think the word 'vacation' again."

Ty glanced sideways at him. "We'll use code," he agreed. "Call it time off. time off from hell."

"Hell would be more relaxing than this," Zane muttered [...] "And I could get a tan."

GOD, How much i adore Ty & Zane would be anyone's guess. I'm so screwed!! Again Abigail Roux made me swoon on these both howties!! & the adventure & thrill was a bonus itself :) with both ty & zane with ty's family on the mountains of virginia is a quite thrill to READ!! And we JUST got to see a Relaxing side of Ty which was as charming as his usual cranky behaviour!



In the book you meet Ty's family. Ty has a very strenuous relationship with his Father Earl, due to the high expectations he has of his son (Which was really annoying the hell out of me).

'sticks and stones may break my bones, but words may never hurt me! Whoever came up with the that deserved a few sticks and stones to the head

Stick & Stones was merely a title chased with the relatioship of Ty with his father, when he blow Ty off with such useless and frankly bitch words. (i justt wanted to kick him)


But as always Zane was with his partner, whenever Ty needed him!


The MAIN thing which i ABSOLUTELY LOVED about this book was that TY FINALLY MANAGED TO GET HIS BRAIN OUT OF GUTTER AND AGREED THAT HE LOVE ZANE!! *aaawwww swooon*

What he was afraid of, he’d come to realize, was not dark spaces or falling from great heights or being buried alive. His greatest fears, in the end, were letting down those he loved and saying the words “I love you” without any hope of hearing them in return. He knew, deep down somewhere, that if he fell for Zane Garrett, he’d be falling alone"

And AHHHH the ROMANCE was at the peeeek!! Steamy *Smirk*



SO THIS BOOK HAS EVERYTHING I HAVE EVER WANTED! NOW I CAN DIE PEACEFULLY ! DUH! NOT BEFORE I GOT TO READ ZANE & TY GOT MARRIED.. FIRST !!

[~ Becs ~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

These boys are my most favourite ever m-m couple.



I couldn’t resist. After completely falling in love with Ty and Zane in Cut & Run, I had to go straight onto Sticks and Stones. I am so enamoured with these two – their characters are so vividly drawn, I feel like I’ve known them for years and am rooting for them to finally accept and admit their feelings for one another.

We find the boys on ‘enforced vacation’ as Zane is flunking his psych evals as they’re both still traumatised by the events that took place during the hunt for the Tri State Killer in the last book. Ty takes Zane to stay with his folks in the West Virginia Mountains just as his partner – his parents have no idea about his sexual orientation.

So, we get to meet Ty’s mother Mara (a sweetheart), Ty’s father Earl (a tosser), Ty’s brother Deuce (a very likeable shrink) and Ty’s Granddaddy Chester (a slightly senile, eccentric old fart). Ty, Zane, Earl and Deuce all decide to go off hiking or a few days in the mountains but this is Ty and Zane and you just know that they’re not going to follow the script – cue booby traps, explosions, grenades, shootings, kidnapping, mountain lions to name but a few.

I had real issues with Earl in this one - the way he spoke to his boys, especially Ty. To brand a man as noble and brave as Ty as a coward is reprehensible and I would kind of like to shoot Earl. You have to wonder what kind of upbringing on his behalf brings out immediate and unquestioning obedience in his sons. How difficult will it be for Ty to finally 'come out' to his Dad - it's hard to imagine how Earl will cope with that kind of knowledge.

This book reads more like an interlude in the bigger story of Ty and Zane’s relationship. They’re still both living in their own heads, unable to truly give words to their feelings but we the readers can see how much they mean to each other and I am willing them to finally open up and admit how they feel to themselves and to one another. Surprisingly, Ty is more in touch with these feelings than Zane. As they’re camping with Ty’s family, they really don’t get a lot of alone time so there’s not so much steam going on in this one but, what there is, is toe-curlingly hot, especially the scene in the mountains in the cold.

So, I very much enjoyed this as a further exploration of their relationship and as a means to learn more about Ty and his background although, I have to say, there’s still a whole heck of a lot that we don’t know. The thriller storyline was nowhere near as dynamic as that in book 1 but the connection between Ty and Zane is what keeps this book ticking over and it’s nice to see them take a few more steps down that road, all the time wanting more.

I’m very much looking forward to book 3 and seeing them back in action with more ‘alone’ time.

4 stars m-m romance

[Elsbeth · Rating 5 out of 5]

Re-read again, 2022 January 7th

The love story continues.. Somehow this one is one of my favorites. I just love Ty's family. They are a crazy bunch. I loved Ty & Zane coming together professianally and becoming more closer.






*************************************************

I'm on a Ty & Zane marathon train. Can't be stopped. I may need help....

Ty and Zane going on "vacation" to West Virginia.

I loved seeing Ty coming to terms with his feelings for Zane.

“I like being able to wake up to you. I like knowing you’ll be there if I need you,
I like being with you, Zane. And I’d like to keep that up now that you’re here.
I want you.”

[Christy · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 Awesome Ty & Zane Stars!!!



Ty and Zane are back! They are on a mandated ‘vacation’... to Ty’s family’s house in West Virginia.

“And FYI, Deliverance took place in Georgia. In West Virginia we kiss our cousins.” -Ty

“Hell would be more relaxing that this. And I could get a tan.” -Zane

I LOVE TY AND ZANE! Okay, now that that’s out of the way... lets get to the story! (A short summary)



Ty and Zane are at Ty’s home. Everything is good so far. His family thinks Zane is only Ty’s work partner (except his brother, who knows), but they all treat Zane like he is one of theirs and they really are a crazy and funny family! Ty and Zane go on a hike throughout the mountains with Ty’s dad and brother Deuce (who I adored!). Everything is all good, until they run into some REAL crazies- then the action happens!!!! Treasure hunters, guns, bombs, grenades, cougars attacking... these boys go through the ringer!!! It’s really a miracle they make it out alive!This is the WORST vacation ever!


I loved the ending... although I really wanted them to just COME OUT AND SAY IT!!! The ‘I love you’... I know it is hard for both of them to admit. Maybe the next one they will be able to admit those feelings to each other. But really, those 3 little words... I thought for sure when Ty was about to go into septic shock he would FINALLY say it, but no!


What they did convey/say to each other was beautiful though...


Zane had his moments-

He couldn’t tear his eyes away from Ty, even knowing Deuce was watching, and Zane knew right then and there that he wouldn’t be giving Ty up without a fight. Ever.

“You listen to me, Beaumont Tyler Grady. You are a wise-cracking, stubborn, annoying pain in the ass who lives to cause trouble. You’re also a brave, courageous, and valiant Marine who puts his life on the line for what he believes and for those he loves. There is no way you have ever been or ever will be a coward. It simply isn’t in you.”

As did Ty-


I loved watching their relationship grow and evolve! Even though they didn’t admit all of their feelings to each other, they admitted them to themselves, and thats a huge step for these two guys. I’m really looking forward to learning more about both men and watching them grow as the series continues.
Both guys were really yummy, per usual, and even though Ty is my man, I found myself loving Zane much more in this book... Perhaps it’s because he would do anything to protect Ty. Can’t wait to get further into this series! Love it!

Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.

[Baba · Rating 4 out of 5]

“Sticks and stones may break my bones, but words will never hurt me.”

3.5 stars.

I rounded up to four stars because Ty and Zane are just great! Again, loved all those witty dialogs and I really liked Ty’s brother Deacon (Deuce)! However, I had a huge problem with Ty’s father, Earl. He is such a stupid jerk! And I had issues with the plot. When I was 46 % done with Sticks & Stones I got rather annoyed. In fact, Ty’s father was causing a substantial clusterfuck. He insulted his son in a way that I found totally disrespectful! I got all worked up because what happened afterwards...jeez, so stupid! The author used this situation to induce a bit of suspense. I was so not happy with the plot at that time.

I’m going to switch to a brief synopsis.

The book starts out with a merry FBI training session. I did enjoy this start! Later, Ty and Zane are seeing Assistant Director Burns and he says “Garrett is going on a little vacation...” Yes, and Ty is on leave, too. Burns is not so pleased about their psych evaluations and therefore both of them have to relax a bit more and are expected to pass the next evaluations with flying colors. Ty decides to go home and see his family. Naturally, Zane comes along...

It was fun to read about Ty’s family and their banter. I can relate to this hiking tour as well, but that’s as far as it goes because what happened there...tsk, tsk, tsk. They had to deal with a few bad guys, rain and cold, and dangerous animals.

I liked the first 45 % of this book and then the shit hit the fan. I got all worked up about the next 15 % of Sticks & Stones. And this whole fallout Ty had to deal with...not nice. I could have smacked his dad. All his fault – ok, the author’s fault. Gosh, I was so angry! Anyway, I have to say that it was interesting to see how Ty and his dad had to sort out their issues. And it’s yet more interesting to see how their 'relationship' is developing. It grows slowly but steadily. I enjoyed to read about their thoughts and how protective they are about each other.

Memorable “quotes”:

[...]“Are you still pissy about the rubber band cannon?” Ty asked him in exasperation.
“Ugh.” Zane started unbuttoning the BDU blouse. “You’re lucky that guy from accounting didn’t know it was you when his toupee went flying. He might have rerouted your next paycheck to Greenpeace.”[...]

Zane to Ty’s father:
[...]”You owe him a hell of a lot more than just pretty words.” Zane paused, his banked anger melting into a quiet, pained sadness. “I don’t know what you thought you were doing, but you couldn’t have said anything that would have hurt him more.”[...]

[...]What he was afraid of, he’d come to realize, was not dark spaces or falling from great heights or being buried alive. His greatest fears, in the end, were letting down those he loved and saying the words “I love you” without any hope of hearing them in return. He knew, deep down somewhere, that if he fell for Zane Garrett, he’d be falling alone.[...]


I’m going to cut and run because I need a little break. I’ll be back for sure, though and I’m going to read book 3 and 4.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

5 BRILLIANT ACTION-PACKED STARS!!!!!!
I LOVED THIS BOOK EVEN MORE THAN THE FIRST!!!!! (if that is even possible).
I LOVE THESE BOYS!!!!!!!!

Sticks and Stones basically begins about 5 months after the conclusion of their first case together. Ty and Zane had been apart during this time on separate assignments.. and recovering from their ordeal with the Tri-State murders. Both guys have been suffering mentally, not only from a bit of PTSD, but also from their separation. It is apparent to both men that they are developing feelings for the other, but neither is willing or able to share this information with the other. Whether it be for the obvious reasons of their FBI partnership, or out of fear of rejection...neither one is anywhere near sharing.

Zane in particular is suffering. He is repeatedly failing his mental evals for the bureau, and is being threatened with early retirement if he can't get himself together soon. He has been forced into therapy, and is not having much success. And it's not helping that he has been pining for the company of a partner that he's not even sure wants to work with him anymore. He had tried to contact Ty over the 5 months of their separation, but was unable to reach him.

Ty on the other hand, was doing his best to cope. Working covert side jobs for his boss, Richard Burns, and sleeping around to try to drive Zane from his thoughts, Ty had almost convinced himself that he was coping. But his well-known craziness has even taken on new levels of bravado. So much so, that he has started taking too many chances, and has started to worry his boss. He is usually much better at covering-up his inner struggles, but lately, not so much.

Brought back together after 5 months apart, the two fall right back into their fail-safe mode of coping, with the verbal sparing and evasive nature of communicating. It is clear that they still feel the pull and the mutual attraction, but they are both apprehensive about sharing feelings. They are both obviously suffering, and now begin to realize that their struggles have become apparent to their boss.

So Richard Burns places them both on mandatory vacation for 2-3 weeks, and has withheld their evals for their return, in order to try to salvage Zane's career, and Ty's mental status. He has also ordered Ty to return home to visit his family in West Virginia. And he has strongly suggested that Zane get some therapy in order to pass his mental eval.

Ty then decides to ask Zane to join him on his trip home. Zane does accept the invitation but not without misgivings. And here is where the story takes off. Once in West Virginia, the two decide to go on a prolonged hiking trip through the Appalachian Trail with Ty's overbearing father Earl, and his Psychiatrist brother, Deacon. The Grady boys do know the mountains well, but none of them are prepared for the adventure that they encounter on their trip.

And let me tell you, the interactions with Ty's family at the farm are absolutely priceless. And his Grandfather, with that shovel....HILARIOUS!!!

Ty struggles with his feelings for Zane, and also fights his insecurities where his father is concerned. Meanwhile, Deacon "Deuce," tries to psychoanalyze Zane and his mental struggles and fears along the way. Well eventually the trip starts to go south... and bad things start happening... and happening.... and happening. Things really get intense, people might die, and Zane and Ty are suddenly struggling to keep them all alive. It is a riveting story. Often intense, sometimes funny, but NEVER a dull moment!!

"Sounds like lions and tigers and bears, oh my," Zane said..

But through their struggles, Ty and Zane are forced to face their feelings for each other, and both, while silent, realize their unspoken need for the other. So many great lines, and tender moments, this book was a masterpiece!! The author has completely hooked me on these two guys!!!

You listen to me, Beaumont Tyler Grady. You are a wise-cracking, stubborn, annoying pain in the ass who lives to cause trouble. You're also a brave courageous, and valiant Marine who puts his life on the line for what he believes and for those he loves. There is no way you have ever been or will be a coward. It simply isn't you."

From the "Butch and Sundance scene at Quantico, to the literal "DELIVERANCE" from the mountain, I was loving every moment. Such great witty writing, and so intense at times, I felt like I was up their on the mountain with them....heart racing, cold and wet at times, I felt like I lived it right along with them.

"You're okay," Zane said quietly but clearly. "Just focus on me for a few minutes. What's the first thing that comes to mind?" While talking he was gently wiping away the blood.
Ty blinked at him, opening his mouth as he thought the very first thing that came to mind when Zane prompted him. I love you. He snapped his mouth closed and stared at Zane, unable and unwilling to answer.

But honestly, what really has me hooked is the strong bond these guys are forming. I absolutely love their relationship.

What he was afraid of, he'd come to realize, was not dark spaces or falling from great heights or being buried alive. His greatest fears, in the end, were letting down those he loved and saying the words "I love you" without any hope of hearing them in return.

And I can't wait to see where they go from here. I cannot recommend these books enough. Excellent writing!!! LOVE LOVE LOVE!!!!

No less than 5 STARS

My pics...

Ty Grady



Zane Garrett

[Deborah · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5*


Re-read 20th April 2018

While I originally read this back in 2011 I’ve never actually reviewed it until now.

The first chapter is one I always remember and chapter 3 is where I fully rediscover exactly why I love these books so much. Ty takes Zane to West Virginia to meet his family and the conversation and easy humour pulled me straight back in.
I love Chester and his shovel, Ty’s brother Deuce and the whole Grady clan, although reluctantly at times where Earl is concerned.

As always with these guys they can’t catch a break and their easy vacation turns into something else entirely.

A shout out to Ty’s T.shirts again.

“Schitt Creek Paddle Co”

And so it’s straight onto Fish & Chips for me now.

[LenaRibka · Rating 5 out of 5]

4,5 WANTING MORE stars!

I don't need to say a lot. It is the second sequel of the Cut & Run series and if you have already read the first book there is no way you can go past this one.

I have already my favorite M/M-Genre-guys. But Zane and Ty are almost as good as my Vadim and Dan.
It is impossible NOT to fall in love with them!

They are a perfect team, the perfect partners for each other, they are without any hesitation one of the best if not the best mm-couple, and the second book in the series was a best proof for it.

Three-week vacation for Zane and Ty!
Hiking in West Virginia! WOW!



As I have read it I prepared myself for the nightly hot conversations with a lot of campfire romanticisms and a healthy portion of the good sex scenes!


What have I got:

♥ I got to know the Ty's family and where he was grown up.


♥ I have to reduce my expectations for a lot of hot actions to a minimum because they went on the trail not alone but in the company of Ty's Dad and his brother Deuce.


♥ Bad guys who came across the WRONG hikers.


♥ Dangerous and serious consequences with wildlife encounters in the mountains.

♥ A healthy portion of suspense.


♥ Great steamy moments...


♥ They need a really good vacation after this one!!!...ALONE!
And without anything that reminds them of their JOB!!!!



♥♥♥♥♥ I.WANT.MORE!!!! ♥♥♥♥♥

Run on the next book!!!!

[Ms. Smartarse · Rating 3 out of 5]

Ty and Zane have been relegated to desk duty for the past six months, and they're seriously chafing at their restraints. Unsurprisingly, this shows in their psych evals, especially Zane's. So their boss very kindly forces them to go on vacation to Ty's home town. An excellent opportunity for Zane to see that Ty's craziness runs in the family. For maximum impression, a bit of dangerous hiking is added, with a generous serving of therapeutic chatting courtesy of Ty's psychiatrist brother. Just a bit of Grady family hospitality.



The story itself didn't impress me too much. There's a lot of hiking, hiding their relationship from the parents (the brother has a 6th sense), and getting pissed off at Ty's authoritarian father. A far cry from the action-packed investigating of the prequel, but we can't have it all.

On the plus side, there's a ton of character development to be had, along with some important changes in Ty and Zane's relationship, even with their relatively sparse interaction. Plus Ty's family's idiosyncrasies are hell'a funny. In a, you know, these people should be certified kind of way.

"It's not that weird. I sleep with a gun," Zane said with a shrug, though he was bemused. "You used to sleep with any number of weapons. Why not a shovel?" He paused and bit his lip. "What kind of damage can he do with that thing?"
"Broke my nose when I was fifteen," Ty answered with a fond smile. "He can hit a snake from ten yards away. Moving target's iffy since his eyesight started going," he added seriously.

Score: 3/5 stars

Not quite at binging level, but there's noticeable improvement in the writing and the character development fronts. Also, Deuce is brilliant and should feature more prominently in future books.
All in all: the series shows definite promise.

=======================
Review of book 1: Cut & Run

[Gerbera_Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

05/20/2024 reread

It looks like Ty and Zane are one of those couples that attract danger anywhere they go, and they manage to save the day! My favorite kind of couple. When the book started with vacation I wondered to myself:"What could possibly happen in the woods?" Well, boys did sure have themselves a VACATION!!!

But first, I want to say how much I loved the Grady family, well, most of them. Earl Grady is in the dog house! The gall of the man!!! But Chester Grady! Oh wow, he is one of those family members each family must have - he is so funny! I loved Deacon and Mara too! I hope they will feature in the coming books more.

The danger that the boys find themselves in this time is not official, it takes a lot of courage and lack of common sense to get out of this pickle. There were moments when I doubted they even could get out. But never have I doubted that something serious and lasting was developing between Ty and Zane. Even in danger and hurt they still looked out for each other, even seeing each other at their worst it could not stop them from trusting and leaning on each other even more than before.

I loved the last chapter. Ty was so shy and endearing. *sigh* And Zane it seemed was in the right place to start putting himself back together to be the man he was always supposed to be. I am so looking forward to their adventures! I highly recommend it!

[Literatures Movies · Rating 4 out of 5]

My, my, my.

I think I might have liked this one a teeny, tiny bit more than the first book. I guess it is true what everyone says, it does gets better and better.

I love Zane and Ty.

I want more Ty and Zane.

There will never be enough of these two.

You can quite literally write a whole book of them just sitting around doing nothing and I would still read it. I have caught onto the Zane and Ty fever y'all. And I ain't regretting nothing. The only thing I regret is that I didn't caught onto this train sooner





*wink*

Anyways. While I enjoyed this book, it feels like nothing is really going on in this one. I'm not complaining. It's nice to be able to get to know Ty's family and see Ty and Zane's relationship grow, but at the same time, it kinda feels as if a lot of things are going on all at once, but then again, it feels as if nothing is really actually progressing. I don't know. This book kinda feel more like an intermezzo, like a novella, rather than a full novel if you get what I mean

I love Ty's family, all but that one motherfucker Earl . That man is so annoying sometimes I feel like I want to go into the book and strangle him myself. There are all kinds of love in the world, and Earl is supposedly the definition of #toughlove. But man, that ain't no tough love. He's the epitome of that one dumb character in the book who has too much pride, yet not enough brain to back it up and the only reason he has the sway that he did was because he was a senior.

Like no.



Things don't work like that, Earl . Not to mention, this man went around and apologize to quite literally everyone but Ty. Like bitch? Ty was the one who was truly hurt from what Earl's dumbass self said and yet Earl could not swallow down his big-ass pride to apologize face to face?



Shoo satan. Get away from my precious babies.



Other than that, I have no complaints. As a lot of you know by now, I'm pretty much trash for Ty and Zane. So I mean



Please bear with my fangirling self for a little bit longer?



Blog: I write reviews on my blog too! :D

[CrabbyPatty · Rating 5 out of 5]

Reread in January 2022: It's funny - this second reread gave me a whole new sense of this book in the series. Yes, it's an epic hike up a mountain complete with armed bad-guys, armed good guys, and a huge animal. But it's also a very small story - a story of the Grady family and Deuce and Ty's upbringing.

I love the little nuances of Ty's love for his mother ("Zane wondered if Ty was a mama's boy ... and thought maybe so. Not that he would ever voice that opinion to Ty until he was good and ready to die. He supposed, though, with a father was imposing as Earl Grady seemed to be, his sons would need a protective and loving mother.") as well as the dynamic between the two Grady brothers. And grandfather Chester and his shovel. ("Grandpa fought in the Pacific Theatre in WWII .... Grandma always said he came home with a shovel and never put it away. [...] We always figured something broke up there .... the shovel made him feel ... whole.")

it's like a little bit of the curtain has been drawn up, revealing a little bit about Ty .... but Zane remains a mystery. A totally badass, savant-level number crunching mystery.

Reread in March, 2020: And yes, I still love this book and think it's pretty goddamn epic. I liked it even better upon rereading because it brings Ty's personality into better focus and gives us such a good sense of his upbringing ... which explains a lot. Chester Grady is a great character! 5 stars.

Read in 2015: Sticks & Stones is goddamn epic. End of review.

Visit my blog, Sinfully Good Gay Book Reviews

[Erth · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you're a fan of m/m romantic thrillers, then you can't beat the writing pair of Urban and Roux for incredible fiction, and in Sticks & Stones, the sequel to one of my favorite reads of 2009, Cut & Run, the irresistible and at times irascible FBI Special Agents Zane Garrett and Ty Grady are back with a vengeance. They're still toting around all sorts of personal and professional baggage and struggling with the aftereffects of a case that nearly killed them both, not to mention struggling with their relationship with each other, and yet - thanks to incredible writing and exquisitely detailed characterization - this second book drives home just how amazing a read can be when you transcend the idea of character and plot and start to experience in a profound way these two men's lives.