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Fish Out of Water #5
Fish on a Bicycle
11 hours and 21 minutes.
Jackson Rivers has always bucked the rules—and bucking the rules of recovery is no exception. Now that he and Ellery are starting their own law firm, there’s no reason he can’t rush into trouble and take the same risks as always, right?
Maybe not. Their first case is a doozy, involving porn stars, drug empires, and daddy issues, and their client, Henry Worrall, wants to be an active participant in his own defense. As Henry and Jackson fight the bad guys and each other to find out who dumped the porn star in the trash can, Jackson must reexamine his assumptions that four months of rest and a few good conversations have made him all better inside.
Jackson keeps crashing his bicycle of self-care and a successful relationship, and Ellery wonders what’s going to give out first—Jackson’s health or Ellery’s patience. Jackson’s body hasn’t forgiven him for past crimes. Can Ellery forgive him for his current sins? And can they keep Henry from going to jail for sleeping with the wrong guy at the wrong time?
Being a fish out of water is tough—but if you give a fish a bicycle, how’s he going to swim?
Jackson Rivers has always bucked the rules—and bucking the rules of recovery is no exception. Now that he and Ellery are starting their own law firm, there’s no reason he can’t rush into trouble and take the same risks as always, right?
Maybe not. Their first case is a doozy, involving porn stars, drug empires, and daddy issues, and their client, Henry Worrall, wants to be an active participant in his own defense. As Henry and Jackson fight the bad guys and each other to find out who dumped the porn star in the trash can, Jackson must reexamine his assumptions that four months of rest and a few good conversations have made him all better inside.
Jackson keeps crashing his bicycle of self-care and a successful relationship, and Ellery wonders what’s going to give out first—Jackson’s health or Ellery’s patience. Jackson’s body hasn’t forgiven him for past crimes. Can Ellery forgive him for his current sins? And can they keep Henry from going to jail for sleeping with the wrong guy at the wrong time?
Being a fish out of water is tough—but if you give a fish a bicycle, how’s he going to swim?
12 pages, Audible Audio
First published October 15, 2019
84 people are currently reading
375 people want to read
About the author
Amy Lane
203 books3,487 followersAmy Lane dodges an EDJ, mothers four children, and writes the occasional book. She, her brood, and her beloved mate, Mack, live in a crumbling mortgage in Citrus Heights, California, which is riddled with spiders, cats, and more than its share of fancy and weirdness. Feel free to visit her at www.greenshill.com orwww.writerslane.blogspot.com, where she will ride the buzz of receiving your e-mail until her head swells and she can no longer leave the house.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 132 reviews
January 10, 2025
Reread January 2025: Audiobook = ***5 soooo-worth-waiting-for Stars***
***3.5 Stars***
THANK YOU JACKSON RIVERS FOR RIPPING MY HEART OUT. AGAIN. DAMMIT!
Jackson and Ellery will always be one of my favorite couples ever and they will also get all the stars from me. Like the whole universe full of stars.
The case they dealt with this time was not my favorite, though. Blame it on my muddled old-lady-brain, on me hitting a language barrier here - hard -, on me not knowing the Johnnies series and/or on me missing out on honing my mind reading skills. There were too many names I found myself mixing up - and it didn't help that the Johnnies also have pornstar names to boot, thank you very much -, the story also was a bit too convoluted for me and I sometimes had a hard time following their train of thoughts.
I will always be Billy-Bobbed and the last 20% of the main story had me on the edge of my seat, though - that you can totally blame on Jackson! - therefore I'll round my rating up and - you know the drill - reserve the right to bump it up even more once I listened to the audiobook. ;-)
***3.5 Stars***
THANK YOU JACKSON RIVERS FOR RIPPING MY HEART OUT. AGAIN. DAMMIT!
Jackson and Ellery will always be one of my favorite couples ever and they will also get all the stars from me. Like the whole universe full of stars.
The case they dealt with this time was not my favorite, though. Blame it on my muddled old-lady-brain, on me hitting a language barrier here - hard -, on me not knowing the Johnnies series and/or on me missing out on honing my mind reading skills. There were too many names I found myself mixing up - and it didn't help that the Johnnies also have pornstar names to boot, thank you very much -, the story also was a bit too convoluted for me and I sometimes had a hard time following their train of thoughts.
I will always be Billy-Bobbed and the last 20% of the main story had me on the edge of my seat, though - that you can totally blame on Jackson! - therefore I'll round my rating up and - you know the drill - reserve the right to bump it up even more once I listened to the audiobook. ;-)
October 30, 2019
I absolutely love this series !! Ellery and Jackson are awesome together and I definitely see some re-reads in the future. But with all the Johnnie boys appearing in this one... I guess it is time for a Johnnies re-read first !! Especially book 1 and 2, which happen to be on my "deserve 6 stars" list ;)
If you like some mystery and suspense with your romance, some angst but also a lot of laughs and a whole lot of love...then you should definitely give this series a try !!!
If you like some mystery and suspense with your romance, some angst but also a lot of laughs and a whole lot of love...then you should definitely give this series a try !!!
October 26, 2019
I'm thoroughly enjoying this series. Jackson and Ellery are awesomely entertaining and their chemistry is still off the charts.
Fish on a Bicycle takes place a few months after the events of Hiding the Moon and Ellery and Jackson are in the process of opening their own practice after Ellery's previous law firm decided that Ellery brought too much danger to the table, and Jackson and Jade spectacularly and impressively told the firm what they thought about that.
In this installment, we have a bit of a series crossover! If you've read this author's Johnnies series, then you'll be happy to know that the Johnnies guys play a role in this story. Henry, the guy that Jackson and Ellery are helping, is the brother of Dex from the Johnnies series, so we get to visit with some old friends, here!
I think we first meet Henry, Dex's brother, in Dex in Blue, and to be honest, I thought he was kind of a jerk, if I'm remembering correctly. He starts Fish on a Bicycle with a fair size chip on his shoulder, but it becomes clear, fairly quickly, that Henry is really a good guy, with a huge heart. He's angry, and it's kind of justified. He loved the military, before he was railroaded out and he needs to have a purpose. Ellery, and especially Jackson, are just what Henry needs, not just to get him out of a murder charge, but also to help him figure out his purpose and his future.
Jackson...man, he has some issues. He's spent a lot of time trying to work through them, and has a bit of a relapse about his relationship with Ellery is concerned. Is he committed to the relationship? Definitely, yes, but he has doubts when it comes to how committed he thinks Ellery should be. Ellery is solid in his commitment, though, and has zero issues calling Jackson out on his BS. And just like previous books, Jackson's cat, Billy Bob, steals the show anytime he gets page time.
Fish on a Bicycle is a worthy installment of this series and I do hope Amy Lane continues it. I want to see Henry find his man, and see Jackson finally figure out that he's not alone in this world. I feel hopeful.
Also, the main story ends at 85%, at which point we get some bonus content featuring none other than Lucy Satan (along with a dose of Burton and Ernie from Hiding the Moon). I kinda want to be Lucy when I grow up. She's fearless.
Recommended.
---------------------------------
ARC of Fish on a Bicycle was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
Fish on a Bicycle takes place a few months after the events of Hiding the Moon and Ellery and Jackson are in the process of opening their own practice after Ellery's previous law firm decided that Ellery brought too much danger to the table, and Jackson and Jade spectacularly and impressively told the firm what they thought about that.
In this installment, we have a bit of a series crossover! If you've read this author's Johnnies series, then you'll be happy to know that the Johnnies guys play a role in this story. Henry, the guy that Jackson and Ellery are helping, is the brother of Dex from the Johnnies series, so we get to visit with some old friends, here!
I think we first meet Henry, Dex's brother, in Dex in Blue, and to be honest, I thought he was kind of a jerk, if I'm remembering correctly. He starts Fish on a Bicycle with a fair size chip on his shoulder, but it becomes clear, fairly quickly, that Henry is really a good guy, with a huge heart. He's angry, and it's kind of justified. He loved the military, before he was railroaded out and he needs to have a purpose. Ellery, and especially Jackson, are just what Henry needs, not just to get him out of a murder charge, but also to help him figure out his purpose and his future.
Jackson...man, he has some issues. He's spent a lot of time trying to work through them, and has a bit of a relapse about his relationship with Ellery is concerned. Is he committed to the relationship? Definitely, yes, but he has doubts when it comes to how committed he thinks Ellery should be. Ellery is solid in his commitment, though, and has zero issues calling Jackson out on his BS. And just like previous books, Jackson's cat, Billy Bob, steals the show anytime he gets page time.
Fish on a Bicycle is a worthy installment of this series and I do hope Amy Lane continues it. I want to see Henry find his man, and see Jackson finally figure out that he's not alone in this world. I feel hopeful.
Also, the main story ends at 85%, at which point we get some bonus content featuring none other than Lucy Satan (along with a dose of Burton and Ernie from Hiding the Moon). I kinda want to be Lucy when I grow up. She's fearless.
Recommended.
---------------------------------
ARC of Fish on a Bicycle was generously provided by the publisher, in exchange for an honest review.
October 28, 2019
This new installment in the Fish series takes place a few months after the events of Hiding the Moon - you wouldn't have to have read that book to follow this one, but there are a lot of small references that make more sense if you know what was happening on the desert mission. Ellery and Jackson are in the process of opening their new office, taking on a first case while still painting and moving in, with Jackson and Jade's infamous resignation letter framed on the wall (though not where clients will see it.)
If you have read the "Johnnies" series, you'll enjoy seeing the guys here again, particularly Reg and Bobby, Dex and Kane, Lance, and Henry, Dex's less-than-perfect brother. But you can also read this without any of their background and it would still work. Henry shows up with a major chip on his shoulder, a lot of internalized homophobia, and pain from how his military career ended that he masks with temper. But he's caught up in a drug and murder situation, and he can't afford to stay aloof and sneer at the folk who might save his ass.
Jackson and Ellery are still working on their relationship, as well as Henry's case. Jackson has a lot of baggage, and death and contract killers in the desert were not a rest cure for his nightmares. He trusts Ellery, but he doesn't really trust himself. And wanting the best for Ellery sometimes leads him down the wrong path, protecting Ellery when he doesn't need it.
This story has an interesting plot (and gives us a new look at an old adversary - one of the things I love about Jackson is that even after all he has been through, he looks deep into people and sees who they might have been, if life hadn't twisted them.) But its heart is the developing relationship, the work Jackson and Ellery are doing to fit together, to plan a life and work that will keep them happy and sane and looking out for each other, while protecting the good people of this world. I was pleased at the end to see that even though the mystery was solved, the series is clearly not over - although I hear it may switch to Henry as primary for the next installment. I'd be happy to spend more time with any of these guys.
There's a small short story at the end, with a fun look at Ellery's formidable mother. One thing I always appreciate about Amy Lane's books is the presence of positive strong female characters.
If you have read the "Johnnies" series, you'll enjoy seeing the guys here again, particularly Reg and Bobby, Dex and Kane, Lance, and Henry, Dex's less-than-perfect brother. But you can also read this without any of their background and it would still work. Henry shows up with a major chip on his shoulder, a lot of internalized homophobia, and pain from how his military career ended that he masks with temper. But he's caught up in a drug and murder situation, and he can't afford to stay aloof and sneer at the folk who might save his ass.
Jackson and Ellery are still working on their relationship, as well as Henry's case. Jackson has a lot of baggage, and death and contract killers in the desert were not a rest cure for his nightmares. He trusts Ellery, but he doesn't really trust himself. And wanting the best for Ellery sometimes leads him down the wrong path, protecting Ellery when he doesn't need it.
This story has an interesting plot (and gives us a new look at an old adversary - one of the things I love about Jackson is that even after all he has been through, he looks deep into people and sees who they might have been, if life hadn't twisted them.) But its heart is the developing relationship, the work Jackson and Ellery are doing to fit together, to plan a life and work that will keep them happy and sane and looking out for each other, while protecting the good people of this world. I was pleased at the end to see that even though the mystery was solved, the series is clearly not over - although I hear it may switch to Henry as primary for the next installment. I'd be happy to spend more time with any of these guys.
There's a small short story at the end, with a fun look at Ellery's formidable mother. One thing I always appreciate about Amy Lane's books is the presence of positive strong female characters.
October 2, 2019
Ellery and Jackson are such darlings! I love their deep connection to each other, how they worry and take care of each other. There are so many intense feelings when they are together mixed with snarky sarcastic humor that make this story an absolute joy for me to read.
This book starts some time after the previous book ended with both Ellery and Jackson on the mend and starting their own firm together. Everything is coming along nicely despite Jackson having trouble dealing with what happened when Carl Lacey kidnapped Ellery. Both men are working on their issues when they get their first case. This time it happens on home turf and takes them into local porn industry, street drug wars and corruption. The case is intense and fast-paced since they are on borrowed time. They have to come together and figure things out before an innocent man is arrested.
Jackson is his usual irreverent sharp self, but he is the one you want to back you up - honest, diligent and persistent. I loved the places and people the investigation took them to. Both Ellery and Jackson found it exhilarating to work together, to uncover the truth and solve puzzles. I enjoyed the heart-to-heart talks they had in the privacy of their home, and the progress Jackson made to let Ellery in and take care of himself. In the end both men made new friends, showed their mettle to the criminal underbelly and the police detectives telling the world they are a force to be reckoned with. I love those two! I enjoyed myself so much! One of my favorite series!
This book starts some time after the previous book ended with both Ellery and Jackson on the mend and starting their own firm together. Everything is coming along nicely despite Jackson having trouble dealing with what happened when Carl Lacey kidnapped Ellery. Both men are working on their issues when they get their first case. This time it happens on home turf and takes them into local porn industry, street drug wars and corruption. The case is intense and fast-paced since they are on borrowed time. They have to come together and figure things out before an innocent man is arrested.
Jackson is his usual irreverent sharp self, but he is the one you want to back you up - honest, diligent and persistent. I loved the places and people the investigation took them to. Both Ellery and Jackson found it exhilarating to work together, to uncover the truth and solve puzzles. I enjoyed the heart-to-heart talks they had in the privacy of their home, and the progress Jackson made to let Ellery in and take care of himself. In the end both men made new friends, showed their mettle to the criminal underbelly and the police detectives telling the world they are a force to be reckoned with. I love those two! I enjoyed myself so much! One of my favorite series!
January 30, 2024
4,5 stars
Jackson and Ellery are now officially on my top couples list. (and there aren’t that many of them there!)
Considering they haven’t even been together for a year, they’ve certainly covered a lot of ground so far, emotionally and personally.
As you would expect Jackson’s physical and psychological recovery isn’t plain sailing, unsurprising, but nonetheless very painful (for him and for us readers!). Particularly because he had been doing quite well, until … well, he didn’t. And his recent problem is totally heart-wrenching (pun fully intended! 😉😂) and really scary.
Ellery finally, finally loses his sh** over Jackson’s antics, and tbh, I can’t blame the guy. He knows he’s not perfect himself, but going through so much hurt and bone-deep worry over the person you love will leave you shaken and raw and just downright desperate if it’s going on and on.
I adore Ellery, full stop.
Wonderful moments between these two, lots of talking and moving forward, and so much tender love, so much passion and heat. Sigh. They’re just brilliant together, and I love all of it: the humour, the snark, the way they gel at work, the passion and understanding, .... I could go on.
Also had a great time with new addition Henry and the way he and Jackson eventually bond.
Henry is the brother of one of the ‘Johnnies’ (another series by Amy Lane) which I read quite a few years ago, and could only vaguely remember, but it was just enough to get by. But be aware a LOT of names float around in this book, so you might want to have a wee look at that series first (which is not a hardship, I assure you!)
Needless to say that the plot takes a dramatic turn toward the end and that, as always, our MCs manage to get right in the line of fire. But, it's good to have friends! Speaking of which ...
The shorts at the end of the book, revisiting Burton and Ernie and telling the tale of a special mother’s visit, are a lovely addition I enjoyed greatly.
Fabulous series!
Book 6 awaits. Enjoy!
Jackson and Ellery are now officially on my top couples list. (and there aren’t that many of them there!)
Considering they haven’t even been together for a year, they’ve certainly covered a lot of ground so far, emotionally and personally.
As you would expect Jackson’s physical and psychological recovery isn’t plain sailing, unsurprising, but nonetheless very painful (for him and for us readers!). Particularly because he had been doing quite well, until … well, he didn’t. And his recent problem is totally heart-wrenching (pun fully intended! 😉😂) and really scary.
Ellery finally, finally loses his sh** over Jackson’s antics, and tbh, I can’t blame the guy. He knows he’s not perfect himself, but going through so much hurt and bone-deep worry over the person you love will leave you shaken and raw and just downright desperate if it’s going on and on.
I adore Ellery, full stop.
Wonderful moments between these two, lots of talking and moving forward, and so much tender love, so much passion and heat. Sigh. They’re just brilliant together, and I love all of it: the humour, the snark, the way they gel at work, the passion and understanding, .... I could go on.
Also had a great time with new addition Henry and the way he and Jackson eventually bond.
Henry is the brother of one of the ‘Johnnies’ (another series by Amy Lane) which I read quite a few years ago, and could only vaguely remember, but it was just enough to get by. But be aware a LOT of names float around in this book, so you might want to have a wee look at that series first (which is not a hardship, I assure you!)
Needless to say that the plot takes a dramatic turn toward the end and that, as always, our MCs manage to get right in the line of fire. But, it's good to have friends! Speaking of which ...
The shorts at the end of the book, revisiting Burton and Ernie and telling the tale of a special mother’s visit, are a lovely addition I enjoyed greatly.
Fabulous series!
Book 6 awaits. Enjoy!
August 13, 2019
Update: How fucking adorable is this cover!!!
FABULOUS news ... Amy Lane told me and confirmed that she is planning at least NINE books for Ellery & Jackson in total :-D!! This means we are TOTALLY going to get lots more of these glorious men <333!! WOO and HOO :-D!!!
*******************************
Rating this 5 stars to counter the fucking idiot who rated it 1 star before this has even been released, JUST to be nasty and petty >:-o!!! I highly HIGHLY doubt that this asshole got an ARC!!!
I'll properly rate this book AFTER I've gotten my hands on it - WOOHOOOO - though to be frank, I'm absolutely positive my rating will not change whatsoever, because this series is ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL, and I seriously ADORE Jackson and Ellery <333!!! May there be many many more of their books in this series :-D!!!
FABULOUS news ... Amy Lane told me and confirmed that she is planning at least NINE books for Ellery & Jackson in total :-D!! This means we are TOTALLY going to get lots more of these glorious men <333!! WOO and HOO :-D!!!
*******************************
Rating this 5 stars to counter the fucking idiot who rated it 1 star before this has even been released, JUST to be nasty and petty >:-o!!! I highly HIGHLY doubt that this asshole got an ARC!!!
I'll properly rate this book AFTER I've gotten my hands on it - WOOHOOOO - though to be frank, I'm absolutely positive my rating will not change whatsoever, because this series is ABSOLUTELY WONDERFUL, and I seriously ADORE Jackson and Ellery <333!!! May there be many many more of their books in this series :-D!!!
Read
September 20, 2022DNF 64% No rating
I can’t believe I am going to say this, but this just didn’t work for me. Right from the beginning, you are bombarded with characters from another series the author wrote (The Johnnies) that I did not read, nor do I want to. Yes, you get the rundown of who they are, but I just was not interested. Even when the story gets going, I practically needed a chart to keep track of everyone.
It breaks my heart to DNF this one because I adored Emery and Jackson, but in this book, they started getting on my nerves. Their relationship seems to go on emotional repeat and it’s exhausting.
I may take a break and then try to finish up the series with books 6 & 7.
I know I am the dissenting opinion because all of my GR friend loved this one. It’s definitely me being cranky again.
I can’t believe I am going to say this, but this just didn’t work for me. Right from the beginning, you are bombarded with characters from another series the author wrote (The Johnnies) that I did not read, nor do I want to. Yes, you get the rundown of who they are, but I just was not interested. Even when the story gets going, I practically needed a chart to keep track of everyone.
It breaks my heart to DNF this one because I adored Emery and Jackson, but in this book, they started getting on my nerves. Their relationship seems to go on emotional repeat and it’s exhausting.
I may take a break and then try to finish up the series with books 6 & 7.
I know I am the dissenting opinion because all of my GR friend loved this one. It’s definitely me being cranky again.
December 28, 2023
Audio: 5 stars Greg B/T
Book: 3.5-4 stars
I think since I didn’t read any of the “Johnnie’s” series so all of those characters I had no connection to. While yes you don’t have to read that series to enjoy this book I could see it making this one more enjoyable.
I do wonder if Henry has a book.. probably not on audio though..
I think compared to book 3 this one wasn’t as good….Jackson was regressing to his original mindset of not good enough to stay alive and I wanted to shake him to make him open his eyes!
I do also think this case wasn’t as good as the 3rd books… yes it was still engaging it just didn’t flow as well as the last one.
Overall I hope Greg B/T finishes the rest of the series for audio because he is the perfect voice for all these characters!
Book: 3.5-4 stars
I think since I didn’t read any of the “Johnnie’s” series so all of those characters I had no connection to. While yes you don’t have to read that series to enjoy this book I could see it making this one more enjoyable.
I do wonder if Henry has a book.. probably not on audio though..
I think compared to book 3 this one wasn’t as good….Jackson was regressing to his original mindset of not good enough to stay alive and I wanted to shake him to make him open his eyes!
I do also think this case wasn’t as good as the 3rd books… yes it was still engaging it just didn’t flow as well as the last one.
Overall I hope Greg B/T finishes the rest of the series for audio because he is the perfect voice for all these characters!
October 24, 2019
I can't say that this is the best story in the series...but...
I can say without reservation that for me, this is the best story to date and believe me when I say that's not an easy statement to make because I absolutely love this series. I have loved every word of every book.
Is this the best series ever written...I don't know and I really think that's a very subjective decision to be made but for me this series is absolutely delightful and I have read and/or listened to the audio books several times and I admit it, I wasn't even finished with this book before I started wondering how soon the audio book will be available.
If you read the last book than you know Jackson and Ellery were both left pretty battered and bruised at the end of things and to top it all off. The law firm that Ellery was with has cut him loose and without hesitation Jackson and Jade let them know how they felt about it when they resigned with a touch of class that only Jackson and Jade could manage.
There's a lot going on in this story with the new office and proving Henry's innocence and keeping their relationship on track and keeping Jackson in one piece because this man needs a village just to do that.
So here we are at the start of a new book and there's a new law office in town or there will be soon...but needless to say their first case isn't going to wait until they've officially opened their doors...so enter...Henry...some of you may recognize this name from one of Ms Lane's other series namely 'The Johnnies' and I have to admit I'm not part of that group but I plan on remedying that oversight one day soon. However, it does put me in the position of being able to say that you can easily read this story without benefit of having read 'The Johnnies' so carry on reading my friends you'll be fine.
As Ellery and Jackson race to prove that Henry didn't commit a murder that someone seems to really, really want Henry to take the fall for Jackson is also forced to take a closer look at who he is and what he wants but more importantly he has to come to come to grips with what he needs to do to get it because more than anything Jackson wants his dream the one that gives him his happily ever after with Ellery.
I really can't say that I have a favorite when it comes to Ellery and Jackson...just that I adore them both for different reasons but one of the things that I really love about Ellery is how determined he is to be the man that Jackson needs. On paper I'm not sure that Jackson and Ellery would work but in their world they work and they work well.
As I mentioned before I haven't read Ms Lane's 'Johnnies' series, not that hit hasn't been on my radar because it has and the glimpse that I got of some of the characters from that series in this story has convinced me that I need to remedy this situation and I'm sure that once I do, I'll be revisiting this story and enjoying it even more than I did the first time.
For as much as I enjoyed the mystery in this story and I did really enjoy it, I loved the growth that happened with and between Jackson and Ellery and for as much as I enjoyed this story and I totally loved this one...I also loved what came after the story...you see there's a bonus in this book after it's all said and done Ms Lane has given us more...LUCY SATAN!!! Otherwise known as Ellery's mom. Without fail she is my favorite book mother. This woman is simply the best. She's my role model and if my son ever says that I'm just like Lucy Satan than I'll know I did good.
Of all the m/m stories that I've read and there have been a few, if I had to list my top ten favorite couples Jackson and Ellery would absolutely be on that list and very probably in the top 5.
*************************
An ARC of "Fish on a Bicycle" was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
I can say without reservation that for me, this is the best story to date and believe me when I say that's not an easy statement to make because I absolutely love this series. I have loved every word of every book.
Is this the best series ever written...I don't know and I really think that's a very subjective decision to be made but for me this series is absolutely delightful and I have read and/or listened to the audio books several times and I admit it, I wasn't even finished with this book before I started wondering how soon the audio book will be available.
If you read the last book than you know Jackson and Ellery were both left pretty battered and bruised at the end of things and to top it all off. The law firm that Ellery was with has cut him loose and without hesitation Jackson and Jade let them know how they felt about it when they resigned with a touch of class that only Jackson and Jade could manage.
There's a lot going on in this story with the new office and proving Henry's innocence and keeping their relationship on track and keeping Jackson in one piece because this man needs a village just to do that.
So here we are at the start of a new book and there's a new law office in town or there will be soon...but needless to say their first case isn't going to wait until they've officially opened their doors...so enter...Henry...some of you may recognize this name from one of Ms Lane's other series namely 'The Johnnies' and I have to admit I'm not part of that group but I plan on remedying that oversight one day soon. However, it does put me in the position of being able to say that you can easily read this story without benefit of having read 'The Johnnies' so carry on reading my friends you'll be fine.
As Ellery and Jackson race to prove that Henry didn't commit a murder that someone seems to really, really want Henry to take the fall for Jackson is also forced to take a closer look at who he is and what he wants but more importantly he has to come to come to grips with what he needs to do to get it because more than anything Jackson wants his dream the one that gives him his happily ever after with Ellery.
I really can't say that I have a favorite when it comes to Ellery and Jackson...just that I adore them both for different reasons but one of the things that I really love about Ellery is how determined he is to be the man that Jackson needs. On paper I'm not sure that Jackson and Ellery would work but in their world they work and they work well.
As I mentioned before I haven't read Ms Lane's 'Johnnies' series, not that hit hasn't been on my radar because it has and the glimpse that I got of some of the characters from that series in this story has convinced me that I need to remedy this situation and I'm sure that once I do, I'll be revisiting this story and enjoying it even more than I did the first time.
For as much as I enjoyed the mystery in this story and I did really enjoy it, I loved the growth that happened with and between Jackson and Ellery and for as much as I enjoyed this story and I totally loved this one...I also loved what came after the story...you see there's a bonus in this book after it's all said and done Ms Lane has given us more...LUCY SATAN!!! Otherwise known as Ellery's mom. Without fail she is my favorite book mother. This woman is simply the best. She's my role model and if my son ever says that I'm just like Lucy Satan than I'll know I did good.
Of all the m/m stories that I've read and there have been a few, if I had to list my top ten favorite couples Jackson and Ellery would absolutely be on that list and very probably in the top 5.
*************************
An ARC of "Fish on a Bicycle" was graciously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review.
June 4, 2025
June 2025
Not sure why, but this time around this book spoke the most to me and I think it just upgraded to my favorite book so far in this series
funny how that goes
First review
I love this series and Ellery and Jackson ... therefore upgraded from 4,5 stars to 5 stars.
this is not the best book in this series but I really enjoyed it. I loved the secondary characters and can't wait to get the next book and I seriously hope there will be a next book for Ellery and Jackson ... and not as secondary characters!!!!!!!
Because Henry is nice and I think he deserves some attention and maybe even a book, but the main series has to be about Ellery and Jackson
(had to get that of my chest!)
But I am getting ahead of myself:
the story was a bit different then the others in this series because we had so many secondary characters. but I enjoyed it ... maybe because it felt not as serious as the last one.
till the last quarter: where I was biting my nails because of Jackson ... and it was not even his fault, really.
Ellery was great as ever. I liked that he snapped here once - although I did understand why he felt guilty about it afterwards, I thought he had earned it.
Jackson and Ellery are one of my favorite couples and their relationship in this book has grown so much. Loved that as well.
this is one series where you have to read the books in order - otherwise it will not be as much fun.
Not sure why, but this time around this book spoke the most to me and I think it just upgraded to my favorite book so far in this series
funny how that goes
First review
I love this series and Ellery and Jackson ... therefore upgraded from 4,5 stars to 5 stars.
this is not the best book in this series but I really enjoyed it. I loved the secondary characters and can't wait to get the next book and I seriously hope there will be a next book for Ellery and Jackson ... and not as secondary characters!!!!!!!
Because Henry is nice and I think he deserves some attention and maybe even a book, but the main series has to be about Ellery and Jackson
(had to get that of my chest!)
But I am getting ahead of myself:
the story was a bit different then the others in this series because we had so many secondary characters. but I enjoyed it ... maybe because it felt not as serious as the last one.
till the last quarter: where I was biting my nails because of Jackson ... and it was not even his fault, really.
Ellery was great as ever. I liked that he snapped here once - although I did understand why he felt guilty about it afterwards, I thought he had earned it.
Jackson and Ellery are one of my favorite couples and their relationship in this book has grown so much. Loved that as well.
this is one series where you have to read the books in order - otherwise it will not be as much fun.
July 28, 2020
4,5 stars
I have probably said it before – and most likely will do it again, but Fish out of Water is by far my favourite series by Amy Lane’s. There’s just so much to love about it, so many great characters you care for – even the ones you only meet in passing. I would have to agree with Ellery, there’s something with Jackson that draws people to him, like moths to flame we are all drawn to this battered man. I can’t believe it took me so long to get to this book. I mean I did try to hold out for the audio and Greg Tremblay, but I’m weak and caved…
When we catch up with Ellery and Jackson they are both recovering from their last battle. And the recovery is a rough one, months long even, but they are both determined to make it through, to start their new firm and for life to settle a bit. And for a while that plan works out well, they are mending and are in the process of finishing the renovations for their newly acquired office space, when a client walks in asking for their help. One is a lawyer (not yet able to practice law in the state) and one is Henry, a 27 year old army vet with a chip on his shoulder to rival the Empire State Building, and the baggage to match. How no one had strangled that man is a complete mystery to me, because when we first met him he was anything but pleasant to be around.
Also, holy moly the amount of angst that was jam packed into this story. I physically ached, while reading some parts, had tears in my eyes for others. And often did I want to hit someone, mostly Jackson or Henry, over the head for being stupid. I know they both had their reasons for being so closed off, I mean the shit they had in their baggage was enough to last ten people several lifetimes over. But still, for their sakes as well as the people that cared for them, I wanted them to open up a little, to share their hurt and be able to heal just a little bit. I don't think they will ever fully heal, especially not Jackson, but I wish for him to at least stop bleeding from his old wounds, that they could scab over or even scar. And I mean that literally as well as figuratively as he seems to always amass new injuries.
It would be nice to see Ellery and Jackson working smaller cases every once in a while. I mean there must be some cases out there not drenched layers and layers of conspiracies, assassins or kingpins? What was it Kryzynski said, “You can’t lift up a single goddamned rock and not find a goddamned fire-breathing dragon, can you?”, because man are there hoards of fire-breathing dragons in this series, I mean couldn’t they find a wolf or bear to wrestle with – you know it might be easier on their health and life expectancy.
I only have one negative thing for me and that was the crossover to yet another series. Personally I’m so rarely a fan of this, I don’t mind spin-offs, those are another chapter all together, but connecting books and series that have nothing in common don’t sit well with me, I’m sorry it feels like a marketing trick and on me it has the opposite effect than what I assume is the desired one – to buy and read the other series. Sadly I tend to go the other way. This is highly preferential and I know many, maybe even most readers love any and all cross-overs.
On a positive note I really like Henry and Jackson. I mean it was clear early on that the two of them were so similar that they would either end up killing each other (and they did a fine job trying to do just that, I might add), or end up on the same side fighting for those who can’t fight for themselves. I’m really looking forward to see where their partnership will lead them, because let’s face it, that’s where they are heading.
I'm addicted to Ellery and Jackson and even Billy Bob, and hope there will be more adventures in the future. I also hope that those adventures won't land any of them (or their loved ones) in the hospital, but going by experience, there will be many more scars to come.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
I have probably said it before – and most likely will do it again, but Fish out of Water is by far my favourite series by Amy Lane’s. There’s just so much to love about it, so many great characters you care for – even the ones you only meet in passing. I would have to agree with Ellery, there’s something with Jackson that draws people to him, like moths to flame we are all drawn to this battered man. I can’t believe it took me so long to get to this book. I mean I did try to hold out for the audio and Greg Tremblay, but I’m weak and caved…
When we catch up with Ellery and Jackson they are both recovering from their last battle. And the recovery is a rough one, months long even, but they are both determined to make it through, to start their new firm and for life to settle a bit. And for a while that plan works out well, they are mending and are in the process of finishing the renovations for their newly acquired office space, when a client walks in asking for their help. One is a lawyer (not yet able to practice law in the state) and one is Henry, a 27 year old army vet with a chip on his shoulder to rival the Empire State Building, and the baggage to match. How no one had strangled that man is a complete mystery to me, because when we first met him he was anything but pleasant to be around.
Also, holy moly the amount of angst that was jam packed into this story. I physically ached, while reading some parts, had tears in my eyes for others. And often did I want to hit someone, mostly Jackson or Henry, over the head for being stupid. I know they both had their reasons for being so closed off, I mean the shit they had in their baggage was enough to last ten people several lifetimes over. But still, for their sakes as well as the people that cared for them, I wanted them to open up a little, to share their hurt and be able to heal just a little bit. I don't think they will ever fully heal, especially not Jackson, but I wish for him to at least stop bleeding from his old wounds, that they could scab over or even scar. And I mean that literally as well as figuratively as he seems to always amass new injuries.
It would be nice to see Ellery and Jackson working smaller cases every once in a while. I mean there must be some cases out there not drenched layers and layers of conspiracies, assassins or kingpins? What was it Kryzynski said, “You can’t lift up a single goddamned rock and not find a goddamned fire-breathing dragon, can you?”, because man are there hoards of fire-breathing dragons in this series, I mean couldn’t they find a wolf or bear to wrestle with – you know it might be easier on their health and life expectancy.
I only have one negative thing for me and that was the crossover to yet another series. Personally I’m so rarely a fan of this, I don’t mind spin-offs, those are another chapter all together, but connecting books and series that have nothing in common don’t sit well with me, I’m sorry it feels like a marketing trick and on me it has the opposite effect than what I assume is the desired one – to buy and read the other series. Sadly I tend to go the other way. This is highly preferential and I know many, maybe even most readers love any and all cross-overs.
On a positive note I really like Henry and Jackson. I mean it was clear early on that the two of them were so similar that they would either end up killing each other (and they did a fine job trying to do just that, I might add), or end up on the same side fighting for those who can’t fight for themselves. I’m really looking forward to see where their partnership will lead them, because let’s face it, that’s where they are heading.
I'm addicted to Ellery and Jackson and even Billy Bob, and hope there will be more adventures in the future. I also hope that those adventures won't land any of them (or their loved ones) in the hospital, but going by experience, there will be many more scars to come.
A copy of this book was generously provided by the publisher in exchange for an honest review
January 21, 2020
I've given this a B+ at AAR, so that's 4.5 stars.
Jackson Rivers and Ellery Cramer are back – perhaps a little the worse for wear – in this fifth instalment of Amy Lane’s Fish Out of Water series, and they’re starting a new chapter of their lives. After being shot, stabbed and almost poisoned to death during their pursuit of Carl Lacey, the man responsible for turning trained assassins into serial killers, Jackson and Ellery have spent several months recovering from their injuries, and are, when Fish on a Bicycle opens, gearing up for the opening of their new law firm. But some injuries take longer to heal than others, and Jackson, already carrying a shedload of emotional scars that are barely scabbed over, seems only to have acquired more in the wake of the events that went down in the desert.
A Few Good Fish saw Jackson and Ellery teaming up with Ace and Sonny from the author’s Racing for the Sun and also served as the introduction to Lee Burton, a military assassin, and Ernie, his ‘witchy’ boyfriend who, besides being an awesome baker, is more than a little bit psychic. (Their story can be found in Hiding the Moon.) Fish on a Bicycle is something of a crossover story, too, in that it features Henry Worrall, brother of Dex from the author’s Johnnies series about a group of young men who work in the porn industry. I haven’t read any of those stories (although I have some on the TBR pile of dooooom!) and a number of the characters have cameo roles in this novel, but I didn’t feel I’d missed out by not having read any of their stories yet.
Henry shows up at the soon-to-be open offices of Ellery Cramer, Attorney at Law, and is clearly not happy at being there. With him is Galen Henderson, a very attractive and personable young man who explains that Henry is very likely going to be accused – wrongfully – of murder, and asks Jackson and Ellery if they’ll take on his case. Henry served almost a decade in the military but was recently railroaded out with a dishonourable discharge, and this, together with the fact that his brother runs an extremely successful (and legitimate) porn business, lessens Henry’s chances of a fair hearing. Cases like his – where prejudice is likely to prevent justice being done – are exactly the reason Ellery and Jackson have branched out on their own, and even though Henry behaves like a total dick, it’s obvious to both of them that he’s hiding something big and that beneath all the bluster, he’s pretty scared.
Henry is also pretty banged-up following a fight with Scott, aka Martin Sampson, a former Johnnies model who turned out to have been a nasty piece of work. Following his discharge, Henry – who is pretty deep in the closet – returned home only to be thrown out by his parents, and has travelled to Sacramento to ask his brother Davy (aka Dex) for help. Henry and Davy have never been close, and Henry obviously disapproves of what his brother and his husband do for a living (and also obviously disapproves of the fact his brother even has a husband!), but Davy gives him a place to stay and pays him to help out around the place. When Sampson was caught trying to deal drugs among the models at the apartment, Henry got into a fight with him – and over a week later, Sampson is found dead in the building’s dumpster. There’s no question things are looking bad for Henry, but as Jackson and Ellery start digging, it becomes clear that someone’s out to frame him for murder, that Sampson had somehow ended up in the middle of a drug war… and that a blast from Jackson and Ellery’s past might just be back to haunt them.
As before, Amy Lane has created a fabulous blend of mystery, suspense and romance with a healthy dose of humour and snark thrown in. The plot is intriguing and well-constructed, but the story’s real strength lies in its characters and the relationships that develop between them. Jackson’s take-no-crap attitude is just what Henry needs and I loved the way Jackson gradually gains his trust and helps Henry start to get his life back on track.
Jackson Rivers is an extraordinary individual. Apart from the fact he’s survived more shootings, concussions, knife-wounds and attempts to kill him than anyone has a right to, he’s smart, sarcastic, has very few fucks to give and is very damaged. He’s been through so much in his thirty-odd years, things which would probably have broken someone less strong and determined, yet still has the wherewithal to care deeply about injustice and is driven to help those who can’t, for whatever reason, help themselves. All that said, he’s no saint. He loves Ellery deeply and knows the feeling is reciprocated, but there’s still a little part of himself, deep down, that thinks he’s not worth loving or caring about, and that little bit makes him careless of himself. His deep-seated fear that one day, Ellery will wise up and realise he isn’t worth the effort leads him to… mislead Ellery about certain things, which doesn’t go over well. Ellery ‘gets’ Jackson on an intrinsic level and knows all too well how hard it is for Jackson to admit weakness, but with Jackson’s reticence only exacerbating Ellery’s fears for his health and safety, there is one almighty explosion in the offing –and when it happens it’s shocking and probably the most heart-wrenching moment in the book.
But these two are solid, and I loved watching them talk things through and come up with a way forward. For possibly the first time, Jackson comes to truly understand the dangers he’s facing, and Ellery realises he has some changes to make as well. For all Jackson’s swagger and snark and Ellery’s cool reserve, these two are a perfect fit and I’m so glad that this is a mature relationship where the people involved communicate and compromise in order to make things work, even though – for Jackson especially – talking about his problems is akin to having root canal without anaesthetic.
There’s a large secondary cast here, including the guys from Johnnies and the people who are part of Jackson and Ellery’s extended ‘chosen’ family – Jade and Mike, Kaden and his family, Lucy Satan, AJ, Crystal, Billy-Bob, Burton and Ernie – and I especially enjoyed the scene at the end when Jackson and Ellery host a party to celebrate the opening of their new business, and Jackson is completely oblivious to the degree to which he inspires love and loyalty in all the people there to celebrate with them – and the degree to which Ellery is proud of him because of it.
Fish on a Bicycle is an absorbing instalment in what has become one of my favourite series. The main storyline pulled me in from the start, and the relationship between Jackson and Ellery continues to strengthen despite the bumpy road they’re travelling together. Fans of the series will be pleased with this update on how our guys are doing, and will also be happy to know that there are more books to come.
Note: The last 15% of the digital edition is a short story about what happened when Lucy Satan came to visit.
Readers should be aware that there are mentions of childhood sexual abuse in this story.
Jackson Rivers and Ellery Cramer are back – perhaps a little the worse for wear – in this fifth instalment of Amy Lane’s Fish Out of Water series, and they’re starting a new chapter of their lives. After being shot, stabbed and almost poisoned to death during their pursuit of Carl Lacey, the man responsible for turning trained assassins into serial killers, Jackson and Ellery have spent several months recovering from their injuries, and are, when Fish on a Bicycle opens, gearing up for the opening of their new law firm. But some injuries take longer to heal than others, and Jackson, already carrying a shedload of emotional scars that are barely scabbed over, seems only to have acquired more in the wake of the events that went down in the desert.
A Few Good Fish saw Jackson and Ellery teaming up with Ace and Sonny from the author’s Racing for the Sun and also served as the introduction to Lee Burton, a military assassin, and Ernie, his ‘witchy’ boyfriend who, besides being an awesome baker, is more than a little bit psychic. (Their story can be found in Hiding the Moon.) Fish on a Bicycle is something of a crossover story, too, in that it features Henry Worrall, brother of Dex from the author’s Johnnies series about a group of young men who work in the porn industry. I haven’t read any of those stories (although I have some on the TBR pile of dooooom!) and a number of the characters have cameo roles in this novel, but I didn’t feel I’d missed out by not having read any of their stories yet.
Henry shows up at the soon-to-be open offices of Ellery Cramer, Attorney at Law, and is clearly not happy at being there. With him is Galen Henderson, a very attractive and personable young man who explains that Henry is very likely going to be accused – wrongfully – of murder, and asks Jackson and Ellery if they’ll take on his case. Henry served almost a decade in the military but was recently railroaded out with a dishonourable discharge, and this, together with the fact that his brother runs an extremely successful (and legitimate) porn business, lessens Henry’s chances of a fair hearing. Cases like his – where prejudice is likely to prevent justice being done – are exactly the reason Ellery and Jackson have branched out on their own, and even though Henry behaves like a total dick, it’s obvious to both of them that he’s hiding something big and that beneath all the bluster, he’s pretty scared.
Henry is also pretty banged-up following a fight with Scott, aka Martin Sampson, a former Johnnies model who turned out to have been a nasty piece of work. Following his discharge, Henry – who is pretty deep in the closet – returned home only to be thrown out by his parents, and has travelled to Sacramento to ask his brother Davy (aka Dex) for help. Henry and Davy have never been close, and Henry obviously disapproves of what his brother and his husband do for a living (and also obviously disapproves of the fact his brother even has a husband!), but Davy gives him a place to stay and pays him to help out around the place. When Sampson was caught trying to deal drugs among the models at the apartment, Henry got into a fight with him – and over a week later, Sampson is found dead in the building’s dumpster. There’s no question things are looking bad for Henry, but as Jackson and Ellery start digging, it becomes clear that someone’s out to frame him for murder, that Sampson had somehow ended up in the middle of a drug war… and that a blast from Jackson and Ellery’s past might just be back to haunt them.
As before, Amy Lane has created a fabulous blend of mystery, suspense and romance with a healthy dose of humour and snark thrown in. The plot is intriguing and well-constructed, but the story’s real strength lies in its characters and the relationships that develop between them. Jackson’s take-no-crap attitude is just what Henry needs and I loved the way Jackson gradually gains his trust and helps Henry start to get his life back on track.
Jackson Rivers is an extraordinary individual. Apart from the fact he’s survived more shootings, concussions, knife-wounds and attempts to kill him than anyone has a right to, he’s smart, sarcastic, has very few fucks to give and is very damaged. He’s been through so much in his thirty-odd years, things which would probably have broken someone less strong and determined, yet still has the wherewithal to care deeply about injustice and is driven to help those who can’t, for whatever reason, help themselves. All that said, he’s no saint. He loves Ellery deeply and knows the feeling is reciprocated, but there’s still a little part of himself, deep down, that thinks he’s not worth loving or caring about, and that little bit makes him careless of himself. His deep-seated fear that one day, Ellery will wise up and realise he isn’t worth the effort leads him to… mislead Ellery about certain things, which doesn’t go over well. Ellery ‘gets’ Jackson on an intrinsic level and knows all too well how hard it is for Jackson to admit weakness, but with Jackson’s reticence only exacerbating Ellery’s fears for his health and safety, there is one almighty explosion in the offing –and when it happens it’s shocking and probably the most heart-wrenching moment in the book.
But these two are solid, and I loved watching them talk things through and come up with a way forward. For possibly the first time, Jackson comes to truly understand the dangers he’s facing, and Ellery realises he has some changes to make as well. For all Jackson’s swagger and snark and Ellery’s cool reserve, these two are a perfect fit and I’m so glad that this is a mature relationship where the people involved communicate and compromise in order to make things work, even though – for Jackson especially – talking about his problems is akin to having root canal without anaesthetic.
There’s a large secondary cast here, including the guys from Johnnies and the people who are part of Jackson and Ellery’s extended ‘chosen’ family – Jade and Mike, Kaden and his family, Lucy Satan, AJ, Crystal, Billy-Bob, Burton and Ernie – and I especially enjoyed the scene at the end when Jackson and Ellery host a party to celebrate the opening of their new business, and Jackson is completely oblivious to the degree to which he inspires love and loyalty in all the people there to celebrate with them – and the degree to which Ellery is proud of him because of it.
Fish on a Bicycle is an absorbing instalment in what has become one of my favourite series. The main storyline pulled me in from the start, and the relationship between Jackson and Ellery continues to strengthen despite the bumpy road they’re travelling together. Fans of the series will be pleased with this update on how our guys are doing, and will also be happy to know that there are more books to come.
Note: The last 15% of the digital edition is a short story about what happened when Lucy Satan came to visit.
Readers should be aware that there are mentions of childhood sexual abuse in this story.
June 14, 2021
Ellery and Jackson are working on opening their office and while doing that, Jackson was struggling with nightmares and trying to hide his state of mind from Ellery. I really wished that Jackson would get it through his thick skull that Ellery is there for the long haul. We meet Henry, who doesn’t want to admit he his sexuality and has been really nasty to his brother who is married to another man. Henry just doesn’t get it. Henry is being accused of killing a former “Johnnies” boy that was his one-night stand. Not only are Jackson and Ellery trying to keep Henry out of jail...but also find out who the killer really is, and who is behind an influx of drugs. We have a bad guy popping up from the past and an assassin who is their friend that comes to their rescue. I’m really going to miss this series and Jackson and Ellery...but there is one more book after this and I can't wait.
October 27, 2019
4.25 stars!
I absolutely adore Ellery and Jackson so much. They're one of my favorite Amy Lane couples.
It was a little frustrating that Jackson was up to his ol' "I'm fine" shtick when he certainly wasn't, and by the 5th book it was getting a little tired, but I am happy that by the end Jackson was firm in finally taking care of himself, for the rest of his life if he needs to.
The case that they had and the crossover with the Jonnies series was fine, but it was slow at times for me. Maybe it was because I haven't read that series so I didn't know the characters and there were a lot, but maybe some of it was just that I wasn't too interested in the case at first. It eventually picked up and it was a doozy, but it too me awhile to get into it. I just wanted more Jackson and Ellery all the time.
They have some tough moments in this, but I love how they were able to talk it through - eventually - and get through and come out of it stronger than ever.
Jackson is like a walking attraction for danger though. Most of the time he's not trying to get into the situation, though....although sometimes he totally does and it's like...Jackson, don't! You need to go to the damn hospital! How ironic it is that someone who hates hospitals so much ends up in them all the time.
Jackson and Ellery's chemistry was on point, as usual, I loved it, I loved all their scenes together, especially this one scene where they make love...so amazing :D
There was a little extra story at the end of this for like the last 10% or so and that made me make this rating lower as well. It was fine, but there wasn't much Jackson and Ellery or romance at all and I don't think it was necessary to add to the story - and also I don't particularly like when authors add extra stories onto the end of the main story - different than a one chapter epilogue that is still in the story - it feels a little manipulative. Thankfully most of the book was the main story, but that last 10% could have been made into a .5 story instead.
But overall, I enjoyed this immensely and always love, love, love Ellery and Jackson together. Their love is just *happy sigh* Even when they have troubles and are fighting, I love them.
I hope that in a future installment they do get engaged or married because they were so husbands by the end of this! (Ellery telling the hospital he was his husband might have helped...but also it felt so right for them to be called husbands!)
Two thumbs up from me, recommended for those who have loved this series so far!
***ARC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review***
I absolutely adore Ellery and Jackson so much. They're one of my favorite Amy Lane couples.
It was a little frustrating that Jackson was up to his ol' "I'm fine" shtick when he certainly wasn't, and by the 5th book it was getting a little tired, but I am happy that by the end Jackson was firm in finally taking care of himself, for the rest of his life if he needs to.
The case that they had and the crossover with the Jonnies series was fine, but it was slow at times for me. Maybe it was because I haven't read that series so I didn't know the characters and there were a lot, but maybe some of it was just that I wasn't too interested in the case at first. It eventually picked up and it was a doozy, but it too me awhile to get into it. I just wanted more Jackson and Ellery all the time.
They have some tough moments in this, but I love how they were able to talk it through - eventually - and get through and come out of it stronger than ever.
Jackson is like a walking attraction for danger though. Most of the time he's not trying to get into the situation, though....although sometimes he totally does and it's like...Jackson, don't! You need to go to the damn hospital! How ironic it is that someone who hates hospitals so much ends up in them all the time.
Jackson and Ellery's chemistry was on point, as usual, I loved it, I loved all their scenes together, especially this one scene where they make love...so amazing :D
There was a little extra story at the end of this for like the last 10% or so and that made me make this rating lower as well. It was fine, but there wasn't much Jackson and Ellery or romance at all and I don't think it was necessary to add to the story - and also I don't particularly like when authors add extra stories onto the end of the main story - different than a one chapter epilogue that is still in the story - it feels a little manipulative. Thankfully most of the book was the main story, but that last 10% could have been made into a .5 story instead.
But overall, I enjoyed this immensely and always love, love, love Ellery and Jackson together. Their love is just *happy sigh* Even when they have troubles and are fighting, I love them.
I hope that in a future installment they do get engaged or married because they were so husbands by the end of this! (Ellery telling the hospital he was his husband might have helped...but also it felt so right for them to be called husbands!)
Two thumbs up from me, recommended for those who have loved this series so far!
***ARC generously provided by the Alpha Book Club in exchange for an honest review***
October 23, 2019
Loved this book ... Jackson & Ellery are beautiful characters- rough, refined, vulnerable and determined. Throw in Henry and the Johnnies and a new storyline evolves... add in Family & Friends and I don’t want the book to end ❤️ loved the pace, the drama and the love !
March 1, 2021
4.5 stars.
What a wonderful series this is turning out to be. I'm such a sucker for Ellery and Jackson. The secondary characters are pretty awesome too and I'm coming to love them just as much. This series is one I'd definitely re-read when the mood strikes!!
I also just saw that there might be a book for Henry?? Sign me up for that 👏🏻
What a wonderful series this is turning out to be. I'm such a sucker for Ellery and Jackson. The secondary characters are pretty awesome too and I'm coming to love them just as much. This series is one I'd definitely re-read when the mood strikes!!
I also just saw that there might be a book for Henry?? Sign me up for that 👏🏻
“Oh my God. Stop reading my mind!”
“Then stop being a decent human being with perfectly predictable emotional reactions!”
May 13, 2024
“Don’t leave me yet,” he begged. “I’m just starting to be worth your time.”
“I could never leave you,” Ellery whispered, smoothing his hair back from his face. “Dammit, Jackson, I can’t even take a step back to breathe. You are my heart and lungs…. How could I leave you? You’re the only reason I’m alive.”
They have climbed up to become one of my all time favorite couples.
“I could never leave you,” Ellery whispered, smoothing his hair back from his face. “Dammit, Jackson, I can’t even take a step back to breathe. You are my heart and lungs…. How could I leave you? You’re the only reason I’m alive.”
They have climbed up to become one of my all time favorite couples.
June 27, 2025
4.5 stars
October 20, 2019
WOW!!! Talk about an intertwining "family" reunion! LOL!!!
If you are an "old" Amy Lane fan then this book is going to bring back some old memories, and if you are a "new" Amy Lane fan you are going to find yourself running over to her profile page to see what wonderful books you have missed out on! We get visits from some of my favorite characters from The Johnnies series and of course, there is Billy Bob and Lucy Satan back to keep us amused! *grin*
As always, Jackson and Ellery make us laugh, cry and want to strangle them... just your everyday walk in the park with these two! But, the story is action-packed, and with some help from their friends to see that Jackson, and Ellery, don't get any more serious body damage if it can be helped, the guys manage to save the day, several times over! Well, maybe a bit beat up and bruised on Jackson's part! This IS Jackson we are talking about! *snort* LOL!!!
Ms. Lane may drag us through a large array of emotions from the very beginning of the story, but as always, I am left with a smile on my face at the end! *grin*
The only complaint that I have is that NOW, I have to wait for book 6... Jason? :D
If you are an "old" Amy Lane fan then this book is going to bring back some old memories, and if you are a "new" Amy Lane fan you are going to find yourself running over to her profile page to see what wonderful books you have missed out on! We get visits from some of my favorite characters from The Johnnies series and of course, there is Billy Bob and Lucy Satan back to keep us amused! *grin*
As always, Jackson and Ellery make us laugh, cry and want to strangle them... just your everyday walk in the park with these two! But, the story is action-packed, and with some help from their friends to see that Jackson, and Ellery, don't get any more serious body damage if it can be helped, the guys manage to save the day, several times over! Well, maybe a bit beat up and bruised on Jackson's part! This IS Jackson we are talking about! *snort* LOL!!!
Ms. Lane may drag us through a large array of emotions from the very beginning of the story, but as always, I am left with a smile on my face at the end! *grin*
The only complaint that I have is that NOW, I have to wait for book 6... Jason? :D
April 1, 2020
I gotta admit, I kinda love how Amy Lane is tying all of her different series into this one. Of course we've already had the Racing in the Sun tie-ins and now we're adding in Johnnies. Definitely makes me smile. Of course all the insanity has to kick it up a notch for Jackson and Ellery. They can't have an easy case ever, and well it wouldn't be their first case as an independent outfit without some Jackson death possibilities.
There's a drug ring, some porn stars, and of course some left over military crazies to deal with. But it also brings with it a new friend, and maybe a new partner for Jackson so Ellery can quit worrying quite so much. I enjoyed Henry a lot. He's a fun "kid" though kid he really isn't he definitely has his moments of acting like it. He's a good compliment to Jackson and has just as much of the I'm stupid adrenaline seeking gene. The boys are collecting quite the group of new potential co-workers in this story. They're going to have quite the law firm by the time everything is said and done.
I enjoyed this story a lot and I can't wait to see where the series goes in the future. There's a lot of great tie in's already and I love checking back in with Johnnie's boys. Henry's got lots of potential in his love interest in that area. ;)
There's a drug ring, some porn stars, and of course some left over military crazies to deal with. But it also brings with it a new friend, and maybe a new partner for Jackson so Ellery can quit worrying quite so much. I enjoyed Henry a lot. He's a fun "kid" though kid he really isn't he definitely has his moments of acting like it. He's a good compliment to Jackson and has just as much of the I'm stupid adrenaline seeking gene. The boys are collecting quite the group of new potential co-workers in this story. They're going to have quite the law firm by the time everything is said and done.
I enjoyed this story a lot and I can't wait to see where the series goes in the future. There's a lot of great tie in's already and I love checking back in with Johnnie's boys. Henry's got lots of potential in his love interest in that area. ;)
December 15, 2019
I hadn't thought I'd get to see Jackson and Ellery again, so this was a delight! These guys. All of these guys. Even the new guys. Gah! I love the intersection of all these series at once. Seeing all of them again -- the meeting in John's office, hanging out with Dex and Kane and Frances, even seeing the guys staying in the flophouse -- it was a little like getting the updates on friends in a Christmas letter. And Jackson and Ellery...I could spend years more with them sorting out their shit together, getting angry and sad and scared and eventually, finally, back to happy and content again together. I love them to pieces! I love how their pet names for each other are Counselor and Detective, teasing each other with formality. I don't want to put these two through more than they've already got on their docket, but...more please?!
December 28, 2024
How could I not ADORE this book? It was an epic crossover with one of my favorite series of all-time, The Johnnies!!!! Le sigh . . . . Plus the action, the mystery, and the craziness that seem to follow Jackson and Ellery always make for an amazing time! This one left me guessing and slack-jawed at every revelation. It was just . . . twisted. An instant classic! I can't wait to read Henry's full story in Shades of Henry!!!
November 6, 2019
Oh, well, Amy has put us through the wringer again.
If you haven't read the previous books, start with them.
And if you haven't read the Johnnies - no worries, this is not going to hamper your love, pain and fun with this book...but it'll make you want to read them, too. So these are the side effects.
On the book itself, what can I say? It's all these books always are. Snark, tension, fun, banter, sex, heatbreak and everything tied up with a pretty bow. Pleeeeaze Amy, can you write more? And next time please refuse from nearly breaking Jackson, can you do that?
If you haven't read the previous books, start with them.
And if you haven't read the Johnnies - no worries, this is not going to hamper your love, pain and fun with this book...but it'll make you want to read them, too. So these are the side effects.
On the book itself, what can I say? It's all these books always are. Snark, tension, fun, banter, sex, heatbreak and everything tied up with a pretty bow. Pleeeeaze Amy, can you write more? And next time please refuse from nearly breaking Jackson, can you do that?
October 30, 2019
I really enjoyed this series and I’m hoping there are more stories to come. Seems like we could have a story about Jai, Henry, Jason (!), and maybe AJ. Lots of characters to mine so I’m keeping my fingers crossed.
February 19, 2025
Cinquième tome (en comptant le spin-off) d'une série qu'il est impératif de lire dans l'ordre et qui est toujours aussi addictive en action et en personnages, et qui semble s'améliorer en fluidité au niveau de la traduction.
Nous sommes quelques semaines après la fin du tome précédent et Ellery, après s'être fait virer du cabinet d'avocats où il était associé, ouvre son propre cabinet, avec bien sûr Jackson en enquêteur et Jade en assistante juridique (ils ont bien entendu quitté le cabinet avec une magnifique lettre de démission quand Ellery s'est fait virer).
Et la première affaire ne tarde pas, alors même que les peintures ne sont pas encore sèches : un jeune vétéran qui risque d'être accusé d'un crime qu'il n'a pas commis. Les voilà donc partis dans une enquête palpitante où vont se mêler trafic de drogue, stars du pornos, médecins peu recommandables, relations père fils, vétéran traumatisé, sans oublier bien sûr la trame principale, commencée au premier tome, qui n'est pas encore totalement résolue.
Ajoutez à ça Jackson qui ... fait son Jackson et qui fonce tête baissée vers les emmerdes et qui réfléchit après (quoique, réfléchir, c'est surfait, il a pas le temps), Ellery qui ... fait son Emery, c'est à dire qu'il s'inquiète en permanence pour son homme, Billy Bob qui fait des câlins, beaucoup de palpitations, Burton et Ernie qui viennent faire un coucou (fort heureusement d'ailleurs), une sorte de spin-off avec encore une autre série de l'auteur, Johnnies, dont le premier tome est traduit, et embarquez pour l'aventure.
Ce tome est cependant un peu plus calme au niveau explosions que les précédents, mais tout aussi intense dans l'enquête et dans les évènements qui s'enchainent. Ellery et Jackson consolident leur relation, après tout, tout est allé tellement vite ... et agrandissent leur famille de cœur, avec l'ajout de membres plutôt intéressants.
L'auteur nous offre un petit bonus à la fin, qui lie finalement bien le tome précédent et celui-ci, où il est question d'un sniper, de Lucy Satan et d'un bibelot en verre.
J'aime décidément beaucoup la dynamique de ce couple, ce qui les unit, les amis qui gravitent autour d'eux, et j'apprécie aussi la parfaite balance entre romance et enquête, entre sexe torride et bastons, entre tendresse et suspens, tout ça avec une touche d'humour, tout est parfaitement équilibré.
Nous sommes quelques semaines après la fin du tome précédent et Ellery, après s'être fait virer du cabinet d'avocats où il était associé, ouvre son propre cabinet, avec bien sûr Jackson en enquêteur et Jade en assistante juridique (ils ont bien entendu quitté le cabinet avec une magnifique lettre de démission quand Ellery s'est fait virer).
Et la première affaire ne tarde pas, alors même que les peintures ne sont pas encore sèches : un jeune vétéran qui risque d'être accusé d'un crime qu'il n'a pas commis. Les voilà donc partis dans une enquête palpitante où vont se mêler trafic de drogue, stars du pornos, médecins peu recommandables, relations père fils, vétéran traumatisé, sans oublier bien sûr la trame principale, commencée au premier tome, qui n'est pas encore totalement résolue.
Ajoutez à ça Jackson qui ... fait son Jackson et qui fonce tête baissée vers les emmerdes et qui réfléchit après (quoique, réfléchir, c'est surfait, il a pas le temps), Ellery qui ... fait son Emery, c'est à dire qu'il s'inquiète en permanence pour son homme, Billy Bob qui fait des câlins, beaucoup de palpitations, Burton et Ernie qui viennent faire un coucou (fort heureusement d'ailleurs), une sorte de spin-off avec encore une autre série de l'auteur, Johnnies, dont le premier tome est traduit, et embarquez pour l'aventure.
Ce tome est cependant un peu plus calme au niveau explosions que les précédents, mais tout aussi intense dans l'enquête et dans les évènements qui s'enchainent. Ellery et Jackson consolident leur relation, après tout, tout est allé tellement vite ... et agrandissent leur famille de cœur, avec l'ajout de membres plutôt intéressants.
L'auteur nous offre un petit bonus à la fin, qui lie finalement bien le tome précédent et celui-ci, où il est question d'un sniper, de Lucy Satan et d'un bibelot en verre.
J'aime décidément beaucoup la dynamique de ce couple, ce qui les unit, les amis qui gravitent autour d'eux, et j'apprécie aussi la parfaite balance entre romance et enquête, entre sexe torride et bastons, entre tendresse et suspens, tout ça avec une touche d'humour, tout est parfaitement équilibré.
July 19, 2021
Ellery and Jackson are back and have struck out on their own as the story begins with Ellery taking on his first client and Jackson trying to relax by painting and decorating (with help from Jade) their new offices.
Their first client is a country boy who happens to be Dex's younger brother Dex in Blue so we get to spend time with all the Johnnies boys. Then, because nothing is ever simple in their life, the drug dealing bad guy is apparently one of the renegade former soldiers that Burton and his boss, Jason Constantine have been hunting. So a visit with the characters from Hiding the Moon, including Ernie and his intuitive baking. Lucy Satan comes for a visit and Ernie makes Burton drop off a box of apple fritters for her. Don't ask. It does indeed tie in.
There's more injuries in store for Jackson as this story kicks off a new round of adventures and even Jackson's brother and their family make an appearance. Jackson's heart isn't working so good after his injury in the last story and is a focal point of his health issues. Amy Lane, who is well known for angst and pain, makes the most of that and includes Ellery in our terror for his man. The story underlying all the reunions is complex and exciting and it's not until the last possible minute that we realize Ellery is indeed safe and ready to take on another adventure with Jackson at his side.
One more book in the series to go. And here's hoping Jackson's heart (and mine) last through another of these stories so I can finally put Ellery and Jackson into the happy place in my mind where Deacon and Crick, Shane and Mikhail, and Xander and Chris reside.
Their first client is a country boy who happens to be Dex's younger brother Dex in Blue so we get to spend time with all the Johnnies boys. Then, because nothing is ever simple in their life, the drug dealing bad guy is apparently one of the renegade former soldiers that Burton and his boss, Jason Constantine have been hunting. So a visit with the characters from Hiding the Moon, including Ernie and his intuitive baking. Lucy Satan comes for a visit and Ernie makes Burton drop off a box of apple fritters for her. Don't ask. It does indeed tie in.
There's more injuries in store for Jackson as this story kicks off a new round of adventures and even Jackson's brother and their family make an appearance. Jackson's heart isn't working so good after his injury in the last story and is a focal point of his health issues. Amy Lane, who is well known for angst and pain, makes the most of that and includes Ellery in our terror for his man. The story underlying all the reunions is complex and exciting and it's not until the last possible minute that we realize Ellery is indeed safe and ready to take on another adventure with Jackson at his side.
One more book in the series to go. And here's hoping Jackson's heart (and mine) last through another of these stories so I can finally put Ellery and Jackson into the happy place in my mind where Deacon and Crick, Shane and Mikhail, and Xander and Chris reside.
August 27, 2024
There isn't anything Jackson and Ellery can't accomplish together, whether that's in the relationship department or when solving a case. I just love them working together and living together. I especially love all of the people they pick up along the way and add to their band of misfits. The audiobook is fantastic!
December 26, 2023
It finally came out on audio and I missed it for at least a month. I have the same feelings as I did when I read the book, but loved having Greg Tremblay narrate it. I really hope the remaining books do come out on audio, though I am slowly trying to read through them.
October 15, 2019
Possible triggers: pedophilia, father molesting son, and there’s drugs and murder. If it’s a trigger, please be careful. Otherwise, don’t miss out on this amazing book and if you’re just getting started. You need to start with book 1!
I knew better. I so knew better. You NEVER read an Amy book without tissues and oh my gah! You’re killing me here. Jackson?? Ellery?? Major intenseness going on and yeah I’m sure that’s not a word but still. I am very happy, though, to see how Amy is intertwining a lot of these series. It’s been so interesting and fun to watch. Although this one was a rough one. And for Jackson and Ellery, that’s saying a lot.
So in this one, we get to see a lot of the Johnnies crew. Dex’s brother ends up showing up battered and bruised, with a chip the size of Texas on his shoulder and a lot of secrets he’s hiding as to why. But now he’s about to be in major trouble as Scott, the druggie that got John hooked worse and more, is dead. And Henry is going to be blamed because he slugged the guy after Scott was trying to peddle drugs to the guys. John’s man, Galen, came to Ellery and Jackson for help for Henry, but all Henry is doing is pissing people off with his attitude. Mainly about gays. What’s funny about the whole thing, you will find out eventually, because as usual, Jackson worms it out of him. Once Ellery and Jackson start digging into this, they realize they have stumbled on to a huge mess. And an old enemy who’s come to town to play. But the more mess they find out, the more they feel sorry for Scott and the life he was forced into. And the more they want the parties involved to pay. But as they are getting to the bottom of things, Jackson’s health is fading fast. He’s missed cardiologist appointments, he’s not talking to the rabbi anymore, he’s not eating again and the nightmares are back in full swing. When he gets kidnapped, Jackson realizes this may be finally the end. And if he lives, he knows he has to make sure Ellery knows what he means to him. But as he’s standing there with a gun trained on him, he doesn’t know if he’s going to make it.
It was so so good to see the Johnnies crew again. And to see them all thriving and trying to make something of there lives. I love Jackson so much as it is, but when I saw him befriend and defend Reg, it became a love of no bounds. Reg is still just the sweetest man ever and he just wants a few friends and people to love him. When he’s threatened, he makes a fast friend in Jackson and it made me so happy, because it was like a kid at Christmas with the grin he had. It was also great to see Burton and Ernie and the guys again. Even if only briefly.
But this one, I have to admit, was one of the hardest of the series. Both Jackson and Ellery are no strangers to almost dying. Hell, with those two, it seems like it’s almost a daily basis. But this one pushes Jackson’s health to the brink he may not come back from this time and it about killed me. I didn’t know who to cry for more. Jackson, for going through it, or Ellery, for having to go through it as well and having no outlet for dealing with it. It actually came to a head at one point and I bawled like a baby, because they have come so far with everything, but when one holds back and the other constantly worries and knows nothing, it’s bound to blow up. But they push through, like they always do. They fight, they rage, they cry, they love. It’s who they are. And I have loved every minute of this series. It has been amazing. I’m already ready for book 6.
And as a sidenote….we still need Jai’s story lol. *wink wink*
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
I knew better. I so knew better. You NEVER read an Amy book without tissues and oh my gah! You’re killing me here. Jackson?? Ellery?? Major intenseness going on and yeah I’m sure that’s not a word but still. I am very happy, though, to see how Amy is intertwining a lot of these series. It’s been so interesting and fun to watch. Although this one was a rough one. And for Jackson and Ellery, that’s saying a lot.
So in this one, we get to see a lot of the Johnnies crew. Dex’s brother ends up showing up battered and bruised, with a chip the size of Texas on his shoulder and a lot of secrets he’s hiding as to why. But now he’s about to be in major trouble as Scott, the druggie that got John hooked worse and more, is dead. And Henry is going to be blamed because he slugged the guy after Scott was trying to peddle drugs to the guys. John’s man, Galen, came to Ellery and Jackson for help for Henry, but all Henry is doing is pissing people off with his attitude. Mainly about gays. What’s funny about the whole thing, you will find out eventually, because as usual, Jackson worms it out of him. Once Ellery and Jackson start digging into this, they realize they have stumbled on to a huge mess. And an old enemy who’s come to town to play. But the more mess they find out, the more they feel sorry for Scott and the life he was forced into. And the more they want the parties involved to pay. But as they are getting to the bottom of things, Jackson’s health is fading fast. He’s missed cardiologist appointments, he’s not talking to the rabbi anymore, he’s not eating again and the nightmares are back in full swing. When he gets kidnapped, Jackson realizes this may be finally the end. And if he lives, he knows he has to make sure Ellery knows what he means to him. But as he’s standing there with a gun trained on him, he doesn’t know if he’s going to make it.
It was so so good to see the Johnnies crew again. And to see them all thriving and trying to make something of there lives. I love Jackson so much as it is, but when I saw him befriend and defend Reg, it became a love of no bounds. Reg is still just the sweetest man ever and he just wants a few friends and people to love him. When he’s threatened, he makes a fast friend in Jackson and it made me so happy, because it was like a kid at Christmas with the grin he had. It was also great to see Burton and Ernie and the guys again. Even if only briefly.
But this one, I have to admit, was one of the hardest of the series. Both Jackson and Ellery are no strangers to almost dying. Hell, with those two, it seems like it’s almost a daily basis. But this one pushes Jackson’s health to the brink he may not come back from this time and it about killed me. I didn’t know who to cry for more. Jackson, for going through it, or Ellery, for having to go through it as well and having no outlet for dealing with it. It actually came to a head at one point and I bawled like a baby, because they have come so far with everything, but when one holds back and the other constantly worries and knows nothing, it’s bound to blow up. But they push through, like they always do. They fight, they rage, they cry, they love. It’s who they are. And I have loved every minute of this series. It has been amazing. I’m already ready for book 6.
And as a sidenote….we still need Jai’s story lol. *wink wink*
http://lovebytesreviews.com/
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