Always Waiting

Always #2

by Lee McCormick, R.S. McKenzie

Sometimes love is worth the danger.

Atlas

The sins of my past have chased me all my life, and now they’re colliding with the one thing I want the most. Calvin is perfect. From the moment I saw him, I felt drawn to him—to his light, his smile, his warmth.

We both have secrets, and deadly people are working together to keep us apart as those secrets come to light. I’m willing to do anything to protect the one thing I want to be mine… whatever it takes.

Calvin

I’ve lived a quiet life the past few years. With my past, quiet suits me just fine. Then Atlas blows into my life like a whirlwind, making me think I can have something more. That I don’t have to live without feeling.

When my past rears its ugly head and my secrets are exposed, I know I have to protect Atlas from the fallout. I just hope we come out the other side unscathed.

~~~

Always Waiting is a Dual POV dark MM romance featuring a retired killer and a nurse with a dark past willing to do whatever it takes to keep each other safe. HEA guaranteed.

Genres: M M Romance, Dark, Dark Romance, Found Family, Nursing, LGBT, Crime

274 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 10, 2026

About the author

Lee McCormick has been writing since they were very young, and they've finally found the courage to offer up some of their favorite ideas to the world. Parent to two amazing kids and three pretty fantastic dogs, they've always been fascinated with dark romance and love that transcends time and reason.

When they aren't busy working on their novels, you can usually find them browsing queer romance recommendations or playing a video game. 

Reviews

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 ⭐️
Atlas + Calvin 🖤
Contract killer | Nurse | Age gap | Silver fox | First times


A 50 year old killer that hasn't been on a date since before his adult son was born and the younger nurse who always ends up working the ER anytime the family has "construction accidents".

Been waiting for daddy Atlas's book since we met him in North's book. I liked it. I liked it for sure. But it did lack a little for me compared to book 1.
It was very refreshing to see a book where both MCs were celibate for a long time and took sex seriously rather than one or both of them just fucking anything that moved.

I look forward to Wylder's book.



⚠️ potential spoilers below in detailed tropes, content and warning lists






Tropes/content:
Nurse
Contract killer
Age gap (37 and 50)
Silver fox
Buys him flowers for their first date
Drives him home after long shift so he doesn't fall asleeo at the wheel then picks him up for his next shift
Fuck it moment
Reassurances
Atlas was married to a woman before she was killed
Calvin is divorced and his ex is the only person he's ever slept with
Both MCs dont believe in hook-up culture and have been celibate for a long time
Atlas's first time with a man
"Sweetheart"
Rimming
Hurt comfort
Supply room BJs
Cum as lube
Outdoor sex
Calvin wasnt a damsel
Doctor patient roleplay
Strict roles
Epilogue 1 month later - didnt really learn anything about their future, roleplay scene, they already moved in together earlier in the book



Warnings:
Stab wound to MC
Atlas's wife (his sons' mom) was murdered
Threats to both MCs lives
Crazy drug dealing ex who escaped prison
On page murder to bad guys
Emotional man flipping tables and breaking dishes
Grief



Bigger spoilers:
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
.
Calvins best friend gets murdered by his ex
Mitchell, Calvin's ex husband gets killed
Keegan, the man who killed Atlas's wife gets killed at the end of the book
Calvin quits the hospital his friend was killed at

[Renae Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this fun and entertaining romance between Nurse Calvin and hired killer Atlas. These two could not be more opposite in personality, and watching them navigate their growing feelings for one another creates such a fun dynamic.

I also enjoy the fun antics Atlas and his sons get into. Everyone knows there is a slight danger to this growing relationship, but Calvin and Atlas cannot deny their mutual attraction to one another, which creates such a great story that I could not get enough of. Overall, this was a story that kept you invested while anxiously anticipating the next entry.

[S.S · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was reading always watching book and at ch 5 just read the small Convo between atlas and calvin.......my god I just ran to check if they have a book.....mymymy and yes there is going to be a book about them 😃 I'm so happy.

[Christina Sturgill · Rating 5 out of 5]

Rating: 4.5/5 🌟
Spice: 3/5 🌶️
Heroes: Atlas and Calvin

I have been so excited to get Atlas's story since book one and this absolutely did not disappoint.
It's dark with lots of violence but also has a ton of swoon, sweet and soft romantic moments, and steam. It had me laughing, giggling and kicking my feet, blushing, and cheesy smiling from start to finish. We also get some really touching family scenes that hit me right in the feels.

Atlas is hunting down the people employed by the man responsible for his wife's death. He's also a bit hung up on the nurse he met at the hospital (in book one). When a distracted moment leads him back to that hospital, he decides to take advantage and convince said nurse to go on a date with him.
Calvin is the nurse and while he finds Atlas very attractive, he's a bit reluctant to date again. He's divorced and his ex was a horrible person that kept secrets from him the entire time they were together. He's scared to open himself up to that again. He's also a bit helpless to say no to Atlas though so he eventually agrees. And they are a perfect match despite both of them keeping secrets from one another. Those secrets do eventually come out though, mostly because they are forced to when Calvin's ex becomes a problem.

I ate this up in one sitting. Calvin was sweet, smart, supportive, and I loved that he wanted to be part of everything right alongside Atlas. And I was obsessed with Atlas. He carried a lot on his shoulders, was the perfect gentleman, but also showed a bit of vulnerability and insecurity at times. And I absolutely love how involved he was with his boys.

I'm so intrigued and desperate to get Wylder's story now!

[Denise · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was so excited for this book ever since I had read book one, Always Watching last year. We had caught a glimpse of both Atlas and Calvin in book one and I just knew I was going to love seeing their story come to life. If you haven't read either of these, then I highly recommend you do!

Atlas is a retired killer who still dabbles in the murder business, but only if he needs to. His wife was taken from him twenty years ago and he has yet to track down her killer and seek out his revenge for her death. While he knows who it is, the coward stays in hiding and refuses to show his face again. So, Atlas keeps taking out his minions little by little to send him a message that he will never give up trying to find him.

He met Calvin in the first book, who works as a nurse in the hospital he went to visit Ranen in, who is his son's boyfriend. From that moment on, he has been drawn to Calvin and wanting to get to know him. He makes him feel things he hasn't in so long. Calvin has his own demons and thought he had rid himself of them. But the closer he gets to Altlas, the more those demons come to light.

I loved these two together. I loved how they supported one another, how they stuck together and only got closer despite everything thrown at them. How possessive they were of eachother. It was also nice seeing North and Ranen again, along with the other brother Wylder. This was an overall great read and I am so looking forward to Wylder and Mateo's story!

[Seraphina Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always Waiting
Always book 2
Lee McCormick & RS Mckenzie

Calvin & Atlas


Oh my, this was fantastic

After reading always watching with North and Ranen I could not wait to read this with atlas and Calvin

These two were so good. Their chemistry and attraction was everything

Atlas was so smooth. He had his eye set on Calvin and was willing to go the extra mile for him

I love the mystery and intrigue in this

I also adored seeing North ans Ranen and Wylder again too

Also looking forward to learning more about Mateo 👀

Lee McCormick and RS Mckenzie can do no wrong. I love when they co write together

This was so good. Sweet spicy lots of plot and mystery.

Can't wait for more from this world

So thankful for this arc

[Alia · Rating 4 out of 5]

There is nothing I didn’t love about Atlas and Calvin, Mr Sinclair and Nurse Hayes. They are couple goals. How Calvin wanted to be included and to be recognized as Atlas’s partner and how Atlas was onboard with it melted my heart. There is an age gap, but because they are both already older they had great communication. The spice was perfect. They waited a bit, but not too long. I a looking forward to book 3.

“I don’t just love you, I need you. You’re my world, Altas Sinclair. My whole fucking world. “

[Jessica · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love it when two men knows what they want and that's each other 🥰 a perfect read for Valentines Day. I liked the plot, loved the found family. I'm excited to read Wylder's book!

[Julia (bookish.jka) · Rating 4 out of 5]

"He melts against me, his body moulding perfectly to my front, and I realize how whole I feel for the first time in a long time. All those missing pieces suddenly realigned in the shape of him."

Always Waiting is the second book in the Always series by Lee McCormick and R.S. McKenzie and whilst I love both their individual writing styles, their co-writes never quite hit the same mark for me.

This is Atlas and Calvin's story, and whilst this book has dark elements, it wasn't what I'd call a dark romance. The sweetness and honest communication between these two added to the romance, even with the revenge trope playing out in the background.

Whilst this can be read as a standalone, you really need to read the series in order (book 1 and book 3 are the brothers, North and Wylder's stories - Calvin is their father) to appreciate the overarching story arc and the characters' roles within that.

What To Expect:

🖤MM romance
🖤Revenge trope
🖤Spicy first times
🖤Dark themes
🖤Opposites attract
🖤Age gap
🖤Found family
🖤HEA

Looking forward to Wylder and Mateo's story in Always Wanting.

3.75 stars rounded up

[DeeReads412 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely love when Lee and RS come together to tell a story! They write together so seamlessly and create pure magic on the page. This book is no different.

I was so intrigued by Atlas and Calvin when we met them in the first book, and man they did not disappoint! Atlas is so protective, and would do absolutely anything for his family. Calvin has such a sweet nature and huge heart, but also has backbone of steel people underestimate.

My absolute favorite part of this book was that Atlas and Calvin understood each other so thoroughly. They listened to each other, and always acted together (even if it went against Atlas' protective nature most of the time). They always respected each other’s needs, and that created such a strong bond between them.

Calvin was so strong. Having survived something that would have broken most people, he picked himself up and kept living his most authentic life. Atlas was happy with his son's but Calvin brought him happiness after being alone for so long. Their love story may not have been conventional, but they carved it out together and that is what made it so beautiful!

[369Pages · Rating 4 out of 5]

4⭐️
If you read book one, you’ll know that North’s silver fox dad, Atlas, absolutely had a thing for the nurse at the local hospital. This book follows their story!
Atlas is persistent in his pursuit of Calvin, and Calvin is happy to be pursued 😈

This book was actually quite refreshing! Though it dealt with a lot of dark romance content like:
-m*rder (check TW)
-dark pasts
-action and violence

It also had a shockingly healthy relationship. These two aren’t toxic with each other at all. Their communication is great. They respect each other. They’re thoughtful about each other’s needs. They’re honest. I loved that 😂

This book also has:
-age gap 38/50
-nurse / hired killer
-attentive older MC
-a friendly murder family
-getting back at evil people

Though the plot was basic and easy to follow, it was satisfying for both MCs, and got me excited for the next book. I loved that the dynamic between Calvin and Atlas was fresh and healthy!

[Wicked River Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this series so much!!! I’ve loved Calvin ever since we were introduced to him in book one as Ranen’s spit fire no nonsense nurse and Atlas is so smooth for a killer who has raised killers!! I loved their dynamic and I really appreciated that Atlas wanted to make sure there were no lies between them before anything truly developed. The morning coffees were sweet and their communication was great to see! They established themselves as a team and made sure to uphold this when times got hard. I really liked that Atlas paid enough attention to Calvin to know when he may need someone or something other than him to help Calvin through his difficult times. These two dealt with a lot of past trauma and seeing them get through it in current circumstances together was nice. I always have a good time when North and Wylder pop up! I’m excited for book three!!

🩵ARC REVIEW🖤

☑️ Trigger Warnings

[The Naughty Booknook · Rating 5 out of 5]

Atlas, every time I read him, say sweetheart. I think my heart melted just smidge. Something about reading an older character that says sweetheart just gets to me every single time. I'm not sure why, but it just does. And Calvin, I really loved the few glimpses we got of him in book one. Their dynamics together were perfect. The sexy scenes were smoking hot and how their painful pasts brought them even closer well lets just say justice was served.

I am beyond excited for Wylders and Mateo's book because I have a feeling that one is going to be ride.



❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
🔥🔥🔥🔥

[Mariansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was just as amazing as book 1!
It’s thrilling, spicy and with some snarky moments that I just loved!
Love Atlas so much, and the way he just knows Calvin is his! Without hesitation!
Calvin was a surprise. I did not see his protective side coming 💛 Love the dynamic between them!

[Katelyn · Rating 4 out of 5]

Like a 3.75.

[SM2024L · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF @45%
The characters are plain, plot is not exciting. Just meh

[Cecilia · Rating 2 out of 5]

2.5 ⭐️

I’m not going to pretend this was good but I’m also not going to pretend like I didn’t download it the day it came out and read it in less than 24 hours.

[Alex's Books and Brews · Rating 4 out of 5]

ℝ𝕖𝕧𝕚𝕖𝕨
𝔸𝕝𝕨𝕒𝕪𝕤 𝕎𝕒𝕚𝕥𝕚𝕟𝕘
𝕃𝕖𝕖 𝕄𝕔ℂ𝕠𝕣𝕞𝕚𝕔𝕜, ℝ 𝕊 𝕄𝕔𝕂𝕖𝕟𝕫𝕚𝕖
Always book two

𝕆𝕧𝕖𝕣𝕒𝕝𝕝 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
ℙ𝕝𝕠𝕥 📚📚📚📚
𝕊𝕡𝕚𝕔𝕖 🌶🌶🌶

I was excited for Atlas and Calvin after the first book, and their story wastes no time picking up. From the start, there’s tension, secrets, and that undeniable pull between them. Both men are carrying things they’re not proud of — and when those truths are finally trusted to each other, it doesn’t weaken them. It strengthens them. Their relationship isn’t built on perfection, it’s built on choice.

Atlas has crafted this monster persona — the man who believes in bullets, in control, in being feared. But Calvin quietly dismantles that image. He sees the father. The protector. The man who loves fiercely. Watching Calvin break through those walls without trying to change who Atlas is — just loving him fully — was such a powerful thread through the story.

What stands out most is that Atlas is a father first. His boys are his priority, and that depth adds weight to every decision he makes. Calvin fitting into that family (and his friendship with Ranen) brings a warmth that balances the darker elements beautifully.

We are reminded that Atlas is older, but wow - for an inexperienced old dude he sure can deliver a hell of a lotta spice! And not to spoil anything, but Dr Sinclair? Whew! What a way to end!

The main conflict resolves fairly quickly, but the strength of the story is in the build-up and the family unity. It’s about standing together. About refusing to see the man you love as a monster.

And now I am more than ready for Wylder and Mateo. Their dynamic already feels different… and I need to see how that unfolds.

[VicReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

𝙰𝚕𝚠𝚊𝚢𝚜 𝚆𝚊𝚒𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐

🄰🅁🄲 🅁🄴🅅🄸🄴🅆

4.5/5 ⭐️
1/5 🌶️

↓↓
Ok Daddy!!!! I love a silver fox, they just do something for me. Add in a little dark side but also an absolute gentlemen and you have yourself a perfect man, aka Atlas. He really deserved to find someone who loves and accepts him for him.

Calvin is just the sweetest. He was a little apprehensive in the beginning but I love how he opened up and could look past Atlas job as a "retired" contract killer. Atlas really showed up for Calvin with the coffee's, the dates, the little things that he did to show he cared.

For this to be a bit of a darker book with some heavy topics at times, these two surprisingly had a nice, sweet, toxic free, relationship. It worked really well for them, it was like the world around them was going to shit from their past but when they were together it was as if nothing else was happening.

One of my biggest thing is communication, is it a turn on, eh who knows, maybe. But these two, had me squealing with joy with their impeccable communication. It took a little time for them to open up about their past but once they did, there was never any doubt of lies or secrets between them.

North and Wylder are absolutely hilarious and the connection they have with their dad is incredible. They accepted Calvin for their dad and in to the mix with no questions asked. I can't wait to see what happens in the next book!

𝕋𝕣𝕠𝕡𝕖𝕤 / 𝕎𝕙𝕒𝕥 𝕥𝕠 𝔼𝕩𝕡𝕖𝕔𝕥
🗡Revenge
🖤 Hurt/Comfort
🗡Killer x Nurse
🖤Age Gap
🗡Protective/Possessive x2
🖤Found Family
🗡Pan-Awakening

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

I absolutely love the pairing of McCormick and McKenzie. Both are fantastic authors alone, but together they are a powerful combo. Always Waiting is book two in the Always series. While it could be read as a standalone, there are characters and references here from book 1. This book is dark romance lite. Yes, there is stabby stabby, but it is low angst and even a bit fluffy at times. It has an age gap, a sort of bi-awakening, and some hurt/comfort vibes.

Calvin is a nurse. We met him in book one, but now we learn more about him. His ex is in prison, and Calvin has made a new life for himself. He has made a great friend. He likes his job. And now he has a cute silver fox trying to take him on dates. Atlas makes it hard for him to say no.

Atlas has been smitten with Calvin from the first time he saw him. So what that he hasn't dated men before. When you know, you know, right? Atlas has been busy getting his revenge against the man who killed his wife by taking out everyone who works for him. But when Calvin gets pulled into the danger, Atlas knows it is time to end it, once and for all.

Calvin and Atlas are adorable together. Atlas is all in, and Calvin is so understanding and supportive. I liked that he didn't cower away from Atlas's darker side. He insists on being a part of it. They had excellent chemistry from the start, and that only strengthened as they faced down people from their past.

I loved seeing North and Ranen again, and this book only made me more excited about the story these two authors will create with Wylder.

[angie_bookrecs · Rating 5 out of 5]

If Always Watching introduced us to obsession and survival, Always Waiting proves this series isn’t just about darkness - it’s about devotion.

I loved this one just as much as the first, but for completely different reasons.

North and Ranen are still absolutely top tier. Their bond is intense, morally complicated, and built on fire, and blood, and unwavering loyalty. They remain the heartbeat of this world for me. Watching their dynamic evolve without losing that edge? Incredible.

But Atlas and Calvin bring something new to the table. Where the first book thrived on raw obsession, this one leans into emotional steadiness without losing its bite.
Atlas is a true Daddy - protective, grounded, solid. But make no mistake, he’s still dangerous when it matters. That duality makes him magnetic. And Calvin? Exactly what Atlas needed. Their connection feels softer, but never weak. It’s strength wrapped in tenderness.

What I love about this series is that it doesn’t dilute it's darkness to make room for romance. It lets love exist inside it. These men are still killers. Still morally gray. Still capable of violence. But they’re also fiercely loyal to the people they claim as family.
And that’s the real magic here.

This little psycho killer family has completely stolen my heart, and I’m already counting down the seconds for Wylder and Mateo’s book. If the hints are anything to go by, we’re in for something explosive...and I can’t wait.

[Betty · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun dark mm romance. Low angst between our mc’s, some good danger elements and fun side characters.

Calvin ❤️ Atlas

Atlas (50) meets Calvin when his son and partner make a visit to the ER and Calvin is their nurse. Atlas is immediately smitten, sees him again in the ER when he’s stabbed, and then asks him to coffee. Feelings and sparks fly from there.

Drama comes from outside threats to both Atlas and Calvin. Atlas is hunting the man who killed his wife 20 yrs ago and Calvin’s ex-husband, who was a drug kingpin, escapes from jail and is looking for him.

- No third act breakup
- No miscommunication
- Insta
- Contract killer and nurse
- Age gap - Atlas (50) and Calvin (37)
- Both celibate for an extended period. Atlas since before his adult son was born and several years for Calvin.
- Forced proximity - Calvin moves in w Atlas bc neither wants to be out of the others sight. Both are equally protective of the other.
- Love and affection feels equally balanced.
- Calvin - out/gay; Atlas - gay for you/no angst about this at all
- No OM/OW
- Found family vibes w Atlas two sons (North and Wylder)
- Dead Spouse - Atlas’ wife was killed by Atlas’ nemesis
- On page violence; death of best friend (we see the body but not how it happened)
- Dual POV; HEA, but no engagement, etc

This was a fun easy read! I really liked how the MC’s are both green flags for each other. Fully supportive, fully equal.

[Mikaela (risqué.romance) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always Waiting - Lee McCormick & RS McKenzie
4.5/5✨🌟

* SPOILERS *

I really love this series. I knew when we got the ending of the last book that I needed Atlas and Calvin’s story and man, I was not disappointed by these two. The push and pull we got with these two was more than everything I could ever ask for. I love a good awakening and man, this was absolutely perfect.

I loved Atlas so much because this man would do anything for his family and the things he would do for Calvin was everything. He was so sweet and I just love how Calvin was the first person he was with ever since his wife.

I was so happy that in the end, Calvin got his revenge. He needed to be the one to do it and I was here for it because it just showed us exactly how strong he truly was. Calvin definitely through a lot but thank goodness he had people that truly looked out for him.

I loved Atlas that we got the other cameos from the first book. I really love how North is with his dad. What I really loved that made me love this book so much was how Calvin showed Atlas just how spectacular he truly is and that he’s not the monster he thinks he is.

I cannot wait for the next book. I need more from this series because I’m definitely intrigued what’s next.

I received a copy of this book and this is my honest review.

[Betty Loves Books Galore · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an opposites attract dark romance, featuring Atlas and Calvin, and is book two in the Always series.

Atlas and Calvin are drawn together despite dangerous pasts and secrets that put them both at risk. As threats close in, they must decide if love is worth the danger.

This was a great read. Atlas and Calvin are both carrying heavy pasts, but watching their walls slowly crack as their feelings grow was deeply satisfying. I loved the protective energy between them, not just one saving the other, but both willing to burn the world down to keep each other safe. The secrets and outside threats kept the stakes high, but at the centre of this story, is two men choosing love even when it’s scary.

Things to expect in this book are:
Book 2 in series
MM dark romance
Check CW
Opposites attract
Retired killer x nurse
Age gap (50/37)
Revenge plan
Hurt / Comfort
Both protective / possessive
Brings him flowers
Dates & blushing
Secrets revealed
Light stalking
Pan awakening
Spicy times & dirty talk
Cum play
Over stimulation
Praise kink
Medical kink
Carries him
Wears his clothes
Gives him a massage
Calls him sweetheart
Threats from his ex
Loss of a friend
Found family
HEA

[Shyandmoodreader · Rating 5 out of 5]

✨ ARC Review ✨

McCormick & McKenzie have done it again! Totally blasted through my heart with this phenomenal read 😈🫣. I mean I've been obsessed with Atlas since Always Watching and this was everything I needed 😉. Atlas & Calvin are utter perfection together. They compliment each other so well and are able to lift each other up when the other is faltering and it's just so beautiful 🫶.

Give me a dark romance, age gap and some serious morally grey MC's with hearts of gold (when it comes to each other) and I am SOLD 🥵. McKenzie & McCormick just have such a way with words and work so well together! The revenge plot was especially so well done 👌 and I loved watching this entire family work together. I seriously cannot wait until Wylder's book 👀😈.

The flirting and banter between Calvin & Atlas is enough for you to be invested but throw in some seriously epic spicy scenes and I'm melted 🫠. Done for. Throw me away and leave me there until the next book is out 😍💯.

If you loved North & Ranen's book then I highly suggest this one because it has all the touch him & d*e, protective & possessive vibes you could ask for 🔥.
Calvin & Atlas are such a perfect team, complete equals in every way and I LOVED that 💜. Seriously, I don't want to continue rambling about this book and give it away so just go check it out 😁, it's spectacularly dark and yet so sweet & romantic 🥹😏.

[Madeline Peterson · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book was good overall. I really enjoyed finally getting more insight into North’s father, Atlas, and seeing his character develop—especially watching his relationship with Calvin unfold. It was wonderful to see Atlas grow and experience that kind of love.

That said, there were parts that felt a little lacking compared to the first book. At times, the story felt rushed. I would have loved to see Atlas and Calvin’s relationship build more slowly and naturally instead of progressing so quickly. I understand that there were threats on both sides and outside pressures driving the pacing, but Calvin’s acceptance of Atlas did feel just a bit too fast.

However, I can see why it may have unfolded that way. Since Calvin had previously been married to someone in a similar profession, it makes sense that he might have been more understanding and able to look past certain things—especially knowing he was in danger and that Atlas could help protect him.

Even with those critiques, I’m still invested in this series. I’m especially excited for the third book featuring Wilder and Mateo. From the small glimpses we’ve gotten of them so far, they seem like incredibly intriguing characters, and I’m really looking forward to diving into their story when it releases.

[True Loveislovereview · Rating 5 out of 5]

Atlas Sinclair is a fifty-year-old killer, he has probably killed more people than Calvin saved. Atlas is damn handsome and charming.
Calvin Hayes is thirty-seven, he’s a nurse, he met Atlas a few times at the ER, he did try to resist him, but at some point he couldn’t anymore, the man is too damn magnetic.

Atlas is ten steps ahead of the present; he’s head over heels; he imagines Calvin as his, with security, in his home. He can’t kidnap him, but gosh he would love to.
Both men have something to hide. Dangerous pasts. When those pasts collide, it could break their relationship; instead, this is exactly what made it unbreakable.

As a team Atlas, Calvin, and Atlas’ sons, have to fix what’s wrong, and oh my goodness fasten your seatbelts.
It’s harsh and cruel, there’s angst, but in between there’s Calvin and Atlas’ love that gets stronger by the day.

Wow, I loved this strongly-written story, it was balanced, with enough room for romance, and enough room for the harder parts. I loved the whole content. The MCs were solid personalities and so lovable, the sons were hugely interesting. I didn’t read book 1, but bought it right away.
These two authors, what a great combination!

[Ashley Dead.inside_but_reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a Dark Romance so make sure you check the TWs before hopping in! There is a HEA though so your good there! 🖤 This is Book 2 in the Always Series and they are written as stand alones but you will get more by reading them in order!

🌶🌶🌶

ATLAS!!!! uggghhh Atlas!! I knew I was going to love Atlas from book 1 and just his couple moments with Ranen 🥹 but I mean Atlas AND Calvin....just perfection

Ok spoiler free review...
In this book we find out in more detail what happened to Atlas's wife and that he has been on a revenge mission of his own since her death. Calvin our protector nurse from book 1 who caught Atlas's eye, we find out also has a past of his own. When Atlas's past collides with Calvin's you would think that it would be something that drives these two apart....but it in fact ties them together 🥰 They become this kick ass take no shit team! Now I will say this story has a couple bombs like the first one but they are not the twisty kind they are the heart wrenching kind I audibly gasped at one part...like completely shocked me. So this is your warning to stay on your toes!
We get a little peek at Wylder and Mateo and I will say my interest is absolutely piqued! I cannot wait for more of these guys!

[Whisper Wallen · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️🌶️

Honestly I liked it but didn’t love it. I really liked Atlas and Calvin as a couple I guess they were sweet for each other. But something just didn’t sit right with parts of the story. I mean, I understand Calvin‘s ex and the stuff that he went through with that. I just didn’t fully understand the “we’re doing this together” aspect. When it felt like it was just so out there for Calvin. I mean Atlas has been a contract killer for decades he knows what he’s doing. I guess I just couldn’t see that happening out of nowhere where all of a sudden Calvin was a okay with being in the middle of the action. There’s a difference in protecting yourself and going into the fire. I mean it worked for them and it was a good read. It was just something about that that I just couldn’t comprehend. The writing was great as usual I just don’t think I liked the story as much as I really wanted to. I’m excited for Wylder and Mateos story. The interactions between them seems like it will be really interesting to read.

[SNik · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second in series (Always), but can be read as a standalone. Age gap. Found family. Dual POV. Heed content warnings.

There’s something about Calvin, the nurse he meets in the ER, that has Atlas thinking about dating for the first time in years. But Atlas is a semi-retired contract killer, and Calvin has his own secrets, and the danger increases as they get closer.

What starts out as a sweet, slightly obsessed desire to date Calvin, brings Atlas an entirely fierce man in his own right that wants to protect Atlas just as equally. I absolutely loved that Atlas is honest with Calvin before either man gets in too deep; it was unexpected, and allowed us to see that Calvin is a different kind of man that can wholly accept Atlas’s darker side. There is plenty of steam, no hesitation of Atlas’s family welcoming Calvin, and a story where two men fall quickly and deeply for someone that they find a special kind of connection with. If you can accept morally grey killers and murder as a love language, then this couple, and family, will provide an entertaining read. 4.5 rounded up