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Frankie #4
Jordan & Rhys
A Novella in Frankie's Series
Eight months after the assault in which his sub and lover was killed, Jordan Nicholls isn’t making much progress in his recovery. Marchant and Ed, Jordan’s friends from the BDSM club, stage an intervention.
They employ a carer to look after Jordan. Rhys may be a sub, but he’s forceful, making Jordan eat and exercise rather than live on coffee and cigarettes. Despite Jordan’s protests, Rhys slowly forces him back to life.
But Rhys wants to be Jordan’s sub, and despite being protective of Rhys, Jordan’s not sure he can ever return to the BDSM lifestyle. In order for their relationship to continue, they’ll need to find a compromise that meets both their needs.
Eight months after the assault in which his sub and lover was killed, Jordan Nicholls isn’t making much progress in his recovery. Marchant and Ed, Jordan’s friends from the BDSM club, stage an intervention.
They employ a carer to look after Jordan. Rhys may be a sub, but he’s forceful, making Jordan eat and exercise rather than live on coffee and cigarettes. Despite Jordan’s protests, Rhys slowly forces him back to life.
But Rhys wants to be Jordan’s sub, and despite being protective of Rhys, Jordan’s not sure he can ever return to the BDSM lifestyle. In order for their relationship to continue, they’ll need to find a compromise that meets both their needs.
128 pages, Kindle Edition
First published November 25, 2015
About the author
Sue Brown
146 books841 followersHot guys, big hearts, Sue's world.
Sue Brown is a Londoner with a dream to live on a small island. Coffee fuels her addiction to writing romance with hot guys loving each other, and her Adorkadog snores in harmony as she creates.
Sue Brown is a Londoner with a dream to live on a small island. Coffee fuels her addiction to writing romance with hot guys loving each other, and her Adorkadog snores in harmony as she creates.
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
February 26, 2016
A Hearts On Fire Review
3.75 HEARTS--Great finish to the series!!
Sue Brown ends Frankie's Series with the fourth installment, "Jordan & Rhys". And it continues that light angst/sweet feel. This book features fan favorite Jordan, the damaged ginger haired Dom and new character, Rhys, a sub who is looking for scenes in all the wrong places.
Though this could be read as a standalone (I started the series on book #2 and wasn't lost), I liked reading book #3 before this one. It helped with Jordan and Anthony (star of book #3)'s background and friendship.
Triggers: violent gay bashing and the aftermath
Jordan is attacked with his newly collared sub Mike. This story starts months later after the attack. Jordan is a shell of his vibrant self, still recovering and not taking care of himself. His well meaning albeit meddlesome (yeah I said it) interfere and get him a carer, Rhys, a submissive who understands the lifestyle and...has a connection to the one Jordan grieves.
The story was interesting. I love grieving romances, gingers and spunky characters. Basically, this story had a lot of win factor for me. This author got a little deep but didn't get extremely depressing. Also as the main point was hurt/comfort and healing from PTSD, there wasn't much sex or BDSM scenes. Also, a bigger win for me because it would have been inappropriate for Jordan's character.
I do love a red haired character. *grins* But surprisingly, though Jordan, dominated (see what I did there?) the book with his grief, stubbornness to accept help...it was Rhys who stole the show for me. And we didn't get as much back story about him as we have with Jordan. But he was able to read Jordan so well.
Rhys might read stubborn to some but all I see is a person who cares. He's spunky and doesn't like to hear BS. He knows what's best. A man after my own heart. It was love at first read for me and Rhys. I think he's my favorite character of this series.
The men buck heads and are contentious in the beginning, slowly growing into friends and then lovers. I liked the pace a lot. There were time jumps but it helped speed up the healing process for a few key parts to the plot. But it wasn't a 5 Heart read for me.
The story could have went a little deeper in the feels department, Rhys could have been fleshed out more (maybe knowing how he came to the club or sought out the sort of behavior he did). If the last part didn't happen at 82%, this would have been a solid 4 Hearts for me, easy. I felt that last 'hurt' scene was laying it on a bit too thick.
I do like Jordan and Rhys together. They're able to read each other's moods and needs. They communicate. And I think that whatever mistakes happen in the future, they'd learn from one another.
Recommended for fans of Sue Brown, novellas that are a little spicy and sweet, and headstrong (some might misinterpret for bossy) subs.
3.75 HEARTS--Great finish to the series!!
"Did you two ever...?"
Rhys shook his head. "We thought about it, but it would never have worked. Both of us are--were--screaming bottoms."
"Screaming?"
"Loudly."
Sue Brown ends Frankie's Series with the fourth installment, "Jordan & Rhys". And it continues that light angst/sweet feel. This book features fan favorite Jordan, the damaged ginger haired Dom and new character, Rhys, a sub who is looking for scenes in all the wrong places.
Though this could be read as a standalone (I started the series on book #2 and wasn't lost), I liked reading book #3 before this one. It helped with Jordan and Anthony (star of book #3)'s background and friendship.
Triggers: violent gay bashing and the aftermath
Jordan is attacked with his newly collared sub Mike. This story starts months later after the attack. Jordan is a shell of his vibrant self, still recovering and not taking care of himself. His well meaning albeit meddlesome (yeah I said it) interfere and get him a carer, Rhys, a submissive who understands the lifestyle and...has a connection to the one Jordan grieves.
The story was interesting. I love grieving romances, gingers and spunky characters. Basically, this story had a lot of win factor for me. This author got a little deep but didn't get extremely depressing. Also as the main point was hurt/comfort and healing from PTSD, there wasn't much sex or BDSM scenes. Also, a bigger win for me because it would have been inappropriate for Jordan's character.
I do love a red haired character. *grins* But surprisingly, though Jordan, dominated (see what I did there?) the book with his grief, stubbornness to accept help...it was Rhys who stole the show for me. And we didn't get as much back story about him as we have with Jordan. But he was able to read Jordan so well.
Rhys might read stubborn to some but all I see is a person who cares. He's spunky and doesn't like to hear BS. He knows what's best. A man after my own heart. It was love at first read for me and Rhys. I think he's my favorite character of this series.
The men buck heads and are contentious in the beginning, slowly growing into friends and then lovers. I liked the pace a lot. There were time jumps but it helped speed up the healing process for a few key parts to the plot. But it wasn't a 5 Heart read for me.
The story could have went a little deeper in the feels department, Rhys could have been fleshed out more (maybe knowing how he came to the club or sought out the sort of behavior he did). If the last part didn't happen at 82%, this would have been a solid 4 Hearts for me, easy. I felt that last 'hurt' scene was laying it on a bit too thick.
I do like Jordan and Rhys together. They're able to read each other's moods and needs. They communicate. And I think that whatever mistakes happen in the future, they'd learn from one another.
Recommended for fans of Sue Brown, novellas that are a little spicy and sweet, and headstrong (some might misinterpret for bossy) subs.
December 4, 2015
Review originally posted at Sinfully
3.5 stars
Jordan is still suffering the physical effects from the bashing eight months prior that left him seriously injured and killed his sub, Mike. More than the physical, it is the emotional pain that is holding him back. Jordan has dreams and flashbacks of the attack, he feels enormous guilt about surviving and he has lost interest in the most basic aspects of his life, holing up in his home.
His friends’ concern has led Marchant to hire Rhys, a new sub at the club, to be Jordan’s caretaker. While Rhys is a sub and Jordan Dom, those roles are pushed aside to start as Rhys takes his job seriously and is determined to get Jordan to start living again. He understands the pain Jordan feels at what happened to Mike more than Jordan expects. Rhys is just the right mix of bossy and nurturing and as he moves in with Jordan and takes over his life as a carer. As the two begin to form a trust in each other, Jordan realizes that Rhys wants more from him, but Jordan isn’t ready and isn’t sure he ever will be.
Although the story could work as a standalone, all the characters from the prior books are back, and the events in Anthony & Leo have a lot to do with this story as well. Jordan is feeling like he missed out on pursuing more with his best friend Tony who is happy with Leo as his lover and Dom. While Jordan did everything he could to bring Tony and Leo together and he would never do anything to mess with Tony’s relationship, it is just one more thing on his mind. Tony is fiercely protective of Jordan as well and is a bit unsure of what he sees as Rhys’ agenda.
I enjoyed the way Jordan having Rhys in his house started to naturally bring back out the Dom in him, especially when he realizes Rhys is looking for scenes and is not necessarily going about finding it in the best way. The fact that Jordan, as a Dom, is all about control and Rhys just swoops in and takes over shows just how low Jordan has sunk. The story builds slowly and it takes a while for the two men to move towards a relationship or even consider trying scenes together, which was perfectly fitting for the situation. I really appreciated that Sue Brown stayed away from the “magic sex cure” and Jordan really had to work to get his life back together. There were some time jumps in the story that resulted in telling as opposed to showing the men get closer and I did feel that took a little bit away from the story.
Although the series is set around the BDSM club and all the players are involved in the lifestyle, this story is light on that aspect, focusing more on the developing friendship between Jordan and Rhys as they get to know each other and Jordan’s continued healing. There was a bit more serious tone to this story, but still plenty of lighter times, especially when all the friends got together to help Jordan out.
Jordan and Rhys were both strong, likable characters and the epilogue left me feeling that Jordan had finally found his way back to being comfortable with all aspects of his life. This was a good addition to the series.
3.5 stars
Jordan is still suffering the physical effects from the bashing eight months prior that left him seriously injured and killed his sub, Mike. More than the physical, it is the emotional pain that is holding him back. Jordan has dreams and flashbacks of the attack, he feels enormous guilt about surviving and he has lost interest in the most basic aspects of his life, holing up in his home.
His friends’ concern has led Marchant to hire Rhys, a new sub at the club, to be Jordan’s caretaker. While Rhys is a sub and Jordan Dom, those roles are pushed aside to start as Rhys takes his job seriously and is determined to get Jordan to start living again. He understands the pain Jordan feels at what happened to Mike more than Jordan expects. Rhys is just the right mix of bossy and nurturing and as he moves in with Jordan and takes over his life as a carer. As the two begin to form a trust in each other, Jordan realizes that Rhys wants more from him, but Jordan isn’t ready and isn’t sure he ever will be.
Although the story could work as a standalone, all the characters from the prior books are back, and the events in Anthony & Leo have a lot to do with this story as well. Jordan is feeling like he missed out on pursuing more with his best friend Tony who is happy with Leo as his lover and Dom. While Jordan did everything he could to bring Tony and Leo together and he would never do anything to mess with Tony’s relationship, it is just one more thing on his mind. Tony is fiercely protective of Jordan as well and is a bit unsure of what he sees as Rhys’ agenda.
I enjoyed the way Jordan having Rhys in his house started to naturally bring back out the Dom in him, especially when he realizes Rhys is looking for scenes and is not necessarily going about finding it in the best way. The fact that Jordan, as a Dom, is all about control and Rhys just swoops in and takes over shows just how low Jordan has sunk. The story builds slowly and it takes a while for the two men to move towards a relationship or even consider trying scenes together, which was perfectly fitting for the situation. I really appreciated that Sue Brown stayed away from the “magic sex cure” and Jordan really had to work to get his life back together. There were some time jumps in the story that resulted in telling as opposed to showing the men get closer and I did feel that took a little bit away from the story.
Although the series is set around the BDSM club and all the players are involved in the lifestyle, this story is light on that aspect, focusing more on the developing friendship between Jordan and Rhys as they get to know each other and Jordan’s continued healing. There was a bit more serious tone to this story, but still plenty of lighter times, especially when all the friends got together to help Jordan out.
Jordan and Rhys were both strong, likable characters and the epilogue left me feeling that Jordan had finally found his way back to being comfortable with all aspects of his life. This was a good addition to the series.
December 23, 2015
I truly adore this series. I think, after reading each story that the book I just finished, is my favorite couple but honestly, I think Jordan & Rhys may be my favorite now.
I really wanted Jordan's story as we know the heartache he as suffered when his submissive, Mike was murdered. Just knowing that bit of information would have to be tackled had me cringing in the beginning but once Rhys is hired by the ever meddling and wonderful Dom Marchant to take care of Jordan, things got interesting.
Let me say, what this book doesn't do, it doesn't use sex to solve problems. Sure, Jordan and Rhys fit nicely into the D/s roles but that is not something that happens right away nor is the kink heavy in this book. The men, they become friends and confidants first and really begin to value the other in their life. It's refreshing and this installment of the Frankie Series is not as Insta-lovey as the previous one. This was just nice and the pace was slow as it should be when you have someone like Jordan really recovering from this traumatic experience.
I liked Jordan when we met him in the series but I adored him here. Seeing his natural Dom come out when it concerned Rhys was lovely and seeing Rhys give the possession right back, was perfect.
I felt for Jordan so much, having been attacked and injured himself, he is lost with his day to day life and is WAY out of touch with his kink life. Rhys is a submissive, but now his carer and it's a treat to see how these two dance around one another in their roles. And Rhys, ever patient, ever caring, ever waning Rhys. Sigh. The man was amazing.
It was of course, great to see the three couples from the first books as well. I like that Ed and Frankie are so close and how all the Dom's kinda group together as their subs do as well and they just form this wonderful kinky family.
The end did seem a bit rushed but the epilogue gives us a nice glimpse into the future the men have together.
At the end of it all, this w as another great addition to the series.
I really wanted Jordan's story as we know the heartache he as suffered when his submissive, Mike was murdered. Just knowing that bit of information would have to be tackled had me cringing in the beginning but once Rhys is hired by the ever meddling and wonderful Dom Marchant to take care of Jordan, things got interesting.
Let me say, what this book doesn't do, it doesn't use sex to solve problems. Sure, Jordan and Rhys fit nicely into the D/s roles but that is not something that happens right away nor is the kink heavy in this book. The men, they become friends and confidants first and really begin to value the other in their life. It's refreshing and this installment of the Frankie Series is not as Insta-lovey as the previous one. This was just nice and the pace was slow as it should be when you have someone like Jordan really recovering from this traumatic experience.
I liked Jordan when we met him in the series but I adored him here. Seeing his natural Dom come out when it concerned Rhys was lovely and seeing Rhys give the possession right back, was perfect.
I felt for Jordan so much, having been attacked and injured himself, he is lost with his day to day life and is WAY out of touch with his kink life. Rhys is a submissive, but now his carer and it's a treat to see how these two dance around one another in their roles. And Rhys, ever patient, ever caring, ever waning Rhys. Sigh. The man was amazing.
It was of course, great to see the three couples from the first books as well. I like that Ed and Frankie are so close and how all the Dom's kinda group together as their subs do as well and they just form this wonderful kinky family.
The end did seem a bit rushed but the epilogue gives us a nice glimpse into the future the men have together.
At the end of it all, this w as another great addition to the series.
November 25, 2015
REVIEWED FOR PRISM
4.5 Stars
Without a doubt my favourite of the series.
This is a sad story but there was always hope as the men of Frankie’s try to comfort and put back together one of their own.
If you have followed the series then you will be aware of what happened to Jordan. He was attacked with his sub on the street for something as simple as holding hands. His sub Mike died from the assault and Jordan has been living as a ghost for the past few months. Still in pain from the attack, still suffering debilitating side effects of a head injury and slowly slipping into depression where he feels there is no point in carrying on.
The men at his local BDSM club decide it’s time for an intervention and it comes in the form of the least submissive sub of the series. Rhys is a carer, he was also Mike’s best friend and he holds a special place in his heart for Jordan. He seems to be the one man that can railroad Jordan into doing what he needs to do and start on the long road back to recovery.
Sue Brown did a great job with this story and the characters. There was no quick solve to Jordan’s issues but more a slow and steady battle that Rhys was determined to win. I’m glad it wasn’t solved with sex or scenes. Jordan needed to heal and to deal with the pain in his heart. He also needed to get over his survivors guilt and realise that he was still living and with Rhys gently pushing him along he was able to achieve this and so much more.
4.5 Stars
Without a doubt my favourite of the series.
This is a sad story but there was always hope as the men of Frankie’s try to comfort and put back together one of their own.
If you have followed the series then you will be aware of what happened to Jordan. He was attacked with his sub on the street for something as simple as holding hands. His sub Mike died from the assault and Jordan has been living as a ghost for the past few months. Still in pain from the attack, still suffering debilitating side effects of a head injury and slowly slipping into depression where he feels there is no point in carrying on.
The men at his local BDSM club decide it’s time for an intervention and it comes in the form of the least submissive sub of the series. Rhys is a carer, he was also Mike’s best friend and he holds a special place in his heart for Jordan. He seems to be the one man that can railroad Jordan into doing what he needs to do and start on the long road back to recovery.
Sue Brown did a great job with this story and the characters. There was no quick solve to Jordan’s issues but more a slow and steady battle that Rhys was determined to win. I’m glad it wasn’t solved with sex or scenes. Jordan needed to heal and to deal with the pain in his heart. He also needed to get over his survivors guilt and realise that he was still living and with Rhys gently pushing him along he was able to achieve this and so much more.
March 30, 2016
3.5 stars
The fourth book in this series has a more serious tone than any of the last three. Jordan is dealing with the death of his sub, and Rhys is able to break threw the walls he has put up. The book is very light on the BDSM, but I think it was appropriate for the story. I'm not sure if you would enjoy it as much if you haven't read the first three. This one features all of the previous couples throughout.
The fourth book in this series has a more serious tone than any of the last three. Jordan is dealing with the death of his sub, and Rhys is able to break threw the walls he has put up. The book is very light on the BDSM, but I think it was appropriate for the story. I'm not sure if you would enjoy it as much if you haven't read the first three. This one features all of the previous couples throughout.
December 27, 2015
3.75 stars
December 31, 2019
3,5*
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
PLEASE READ MY RATING SYSTEM!!!
To my ratings:
A 3,5* is clicked with a 4* but in review marked as 3,5*:
5* - very very good and rare (it would be a Blow-Away-book like ‘Jesse's Smile’ or ‘Joey’ from Angelique Jurd, ‘Save the the kids’ series
from EM Leya, ‘Love’s Tethered Heart’ from C.L. Etta or ‘Liberty’ from Seth King),
it's like an A+
4* - very good and will be often reread and is a WOW-book with interesting plot and surprises (like most of Andrew Grey books and Davidson Kings 'Haven Hart'-series)
it's like an A
3,5* - a really good book, which will be reread a few times (most romances where you can enjoy for relaxing and during waiting times in
hospitals). I can recommend them definitively!
It's like an B+
3* - it could be more then a one-time-reader (2-3 times a year),
it's like a B
2* - it was ok to read, but it's more a one-time-reader (I wouldn't recommend it heartily, but it was ok)
It's like a C-, D
1* - sorry, but that isn't really a book for me (too many mistakes, not nice plot, illogical, so an absolute NO-GO). It's like failure in the
whole line, dismissed, repeat the class
June 23, 2021
This was a nice story. Jordan has barely been living life after being assaulted and his sub being killed. His friends bring in a carer to help him fully recover and Rhys is just the person he needs. I liked that Rhys could stand up to Jordan’s grumpiness but I had a little trouble with their relationship because I just didn’t “see” it build and it sounded like Rhys already had feelings for Jordan prior to them meeting. This was an okay series with short stories but in the end I was left wanting and I am not sure why.
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
I received a copy of this book and am giving an honest review
May 27, 2017
Hoopla
June 2, 2021
Sweet & Heartwarming
Jordan and Rhy's story was sweet, and so damn heart warming. Loved all the caretaking and hurt/comfort aspects. Now on to read Tony's story.
Jordan and Rhy's story was sweet, and so damn heart warming. Loved all the caretaking and hurt/comfort aspects. Now on to read Tony's story.
December 21, 2022
Sweet story of Rhys helping Jordan begin to heal from a tragedy. I liked Rhys's sassiness to make Jordan see that he was wanted.
December 30, 2015
5 Heart Review by Cindy
I am a Sue Brown fan and the “Frankie” series is a personal favorite of mine so I was happy to pick this book up and review it. And man am I glad I did.
This story swept me away. Rhys snarked his way into my heart in minutes and Jordan, well, the empathy that I started with for this man soon gave way to a lot of admiration.
Jordan has had a terrible time since his lover was killed. He’s finding it almost impossible to emerge from the pain and apathy that has settled over him and that’s when his friends step in to help him.
It was good to see all these amazing men again. It feels like visiting old friends and I love the little look we get at the happily-ever-afters that Frankie and Al, Anthony and Leo and Ed and Marchant got in their own stories. They all make an appearance but the most important thing about them in this book is that they brought Rhys to Jordan.
Rhys is a care-giver who seems to know just what Jordan needs to bring him out of his depression. A little snark, a little TLC and a lot of love. There is nothing about Rhys that doesn’t warm my heart. Jordan is a lucky man to have friends who care about him so much, and he’s even luckier that Rhys is stubborn and determined to help him get better.
I loved watching the relationship develop between them, the give and take that goes into building the best kind of love and it was a happy ending I had no doubt was coming, but as usual, the journey to get there is as good as the ending itself.
The author doesn’t back down when showing us how the gay-bashing that almost crippled Jordan and killed his sub keeps affecting his life and it’s been a long time since I’ve wanted to wrap a character up in a hug so very badly. It’s a good thing he has his friends and Rhys to do it for me.
There’s a little angst and Jordan needs a little time to get his head straightened around but it all comes together perfectly in the end.
I have to admit that this is probably my favorite of the series and definitely one that I will go back to more than once.
The characters are well defined, interesting and compelling to read. Once I started I couldn’t put it down and it left me a little breathless in some parts and for more than one reason! (Insert leering wink here)
I have absolutely no problem recommending this beautiful story to everyone.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
I am a Sue Brown fan and the “Frankie” series is a personal favorite of mine so I was happy to pick this book up and review it. And man am I glad I did.
This story swept me away. Rhys snarked his way into my heart in minutes and Jordan, well, the empathy that I started with for this man soon gave way to a lot of admiration.
Jordan has had a terrible time since his lover was killed. He’s finding it almost impossible to emerge from the pain and apathy that has settled over him and that’s when his friends step in to help him.
It was good to see all these amazing men again. It feels like visiting old friends and I love the little look we get at the happily-ever-afters that Frankie and Al, Anthony and Leo and Ed and Marchant got in their own stories. They all make an appearance but the most important thing about them in this book is that they brought Rhys to Jordan.
Rhys is a care-giver who seems to know just what Jordan needs to bring him out of his depression. A little snark, a little TLC and a lot of love. There is nothing about Rhys that doesn’t warm my heart. Jordan is a lucky man to have friends who care about him so much, and he’s even luckier that Rhys is stubborn and determined to help him get better.
I loved watching the relationship develop between them, the give and take that goes into building the best kind of love and it was a happy ending I had no doubt was coming, but as usual, the journey to get there is as good as the ending itself.
The author doesn’t back down when showing us how the gay-bashing that almost crippled Jordan and killed his sub keeps affecting his life and it’s been a long time since I’ve wanted to wrap a character up in a hug so very badly. It’s a good thing he has his friends and Rhys to do it for me.
There’s a little angst and Jordan needs a little time to get his head straightened around but it all comes together perfectly in the end.
I have to admit that this is probably my favorite of the series and definitely one that I will go back to more than once.
The characters are well defined, interesting and compelling to read. Once I started I couldn’t put it down and it left me a little breathless in some parts and for more than one reason! (Insert leering wink here)
I have absolutely no problem recommending this beautiful story to everyone.
This book was provided free in exchange for a fair and honest review for Love Bytes. Go there to check out other reviews, author interviews, and all those awesome giveaways. Click below.
November 28, 2015
To say this book starts with a bang would be a gross understatement. What happened in the prologue didn’t come as a surprise and yet still left me shattered. Of course it also had me 100% invested in the story right from the get-go.
This book could have been written just for me. It is a gentle story. Jordan’s lack of progress up to the point when Rhys starts caring for him, makes perfect sense, as does Jordan’s reluctance to Rhys upsetting the (bad) routine he’s slipped into. I loved watching their relationship grow while neither of them seemed to be aware that was exactly what was happening. I’m so glad there was no miraculous turn-around and recovery for Jordan and that Rhys wasn’t all saint and self-sacrificing.
These two characters and the situation they find themselves in were realistic. I often finish a book feeling that I actually know the characters in it on a personal level. I guess that’s the way I read; total immersion. It went further in this book though. Rhys and Jordan and the way they interacted struck a chord deep inside me.
It was wonderful to read a story without huge fights, people storming off or other grand gestures of anger and/or frustration. When it does appear that going their separate ways might be the best idea, it is a calm—if very hard—decision rather than a dramatic eruption of emotion. I was also delighted that this issue between them resolved itself organically, even if it did involve a heart stopping moment.
And of course it was delightful to reconnect with the main characters from the previous books: Frankie & Al, Ed & Marchant and Anthony & Leo. It was wonderful to see the three couples still going strong and getting stronger as time goes by. The interactions between these friends went from endearing to hilarious and left me feeling joyous. It also reminded me that I still haven’t read Frankie & Al; there are no prices for guessing what’s next on my reading schedule.
I’m afraid I’m not doing a very good job reviewing this book. It’s funny how I become less coherent about a book the more I love it. The paragraphs above are a clear indication that I adored this book, the characters in it, the way the story was told and how it unfolded. Sue Brown shot this one straight into my personal bull’s eye.
This book could have been written just for me. It is a gentle story. Jordan’s lack of progress up to the point when Rhys starts caring for him, makes perfect sense, as does Jordan’s reluctance to Rhys upsetting the (bad) routine he’s slipped into. I loved watching their relationship grow while neither of them seemed to be aware that was exactly what was happening. I’m so glad there was no miraculous turn-around and recovery for Jordan and that Rhys wasn’t all saint and self-sacrificing.
These two characters and the situation they find themselves in were realistic. I often finish a book feeling that I actually know the characters in it on a personal level. I guess that’s the way I read; total immersion. It went further in this book though. Rhys and Jordan and the way they interacted struck a chord deep inside me.
It was wonderful to read a story without huge fights, people storming off or other grand gestures of anger and/or frustration. When it does appear that going their separate ways might be the best idea, it is a calm—if very hard—decision rather than a dramatic eruption of emotion. I was also delighted that this issue between them resolved itself organically, even if it did involve a heart stopping moment.
And of course it was delightful to reconnect with the main characters from the previous books: Frankie & Al, Ed & Marchant and Anthony & Leo. It was wonderful to see the three couples still going strong and getting stronger as time goes by. The interactions between these friends went from endearing to hilarious and left me feeling joyous. It also reminded me that I still haven’t read Frankie & Al; there are no prices for guessing what’s next on my reading schedule.
I’m afraid I’m not doing a very good job reviewing this book. It’s funny how I become less coherent about a book the more I love it. The paragraphs above are a clear indication that I adored this book, the characters in it, the way the story was told and how it unfolded. Sue Brown shot this one straight into my personal bull’s eye.
November 27, 2015
2.5 rushed and opportunities missed
I've read many in the m/m genre now, everything from crime/mystery romance, to paranormal and bdsm. And I have to say I think I'm getting rather picky now, not to mention fed up with plots that sound great from the blurb then just don't match up to their potential. This was one of them. Now I haven't read the others in the series,but that has nothing to do with my problems with this novella.
I avoided the others because the reviews spoke mainly of rushed plots and I just didn't have a connection with the blurbs. However, this plot interested me as I am always intrigued by stories where the vulnerability of the Dom was interwoven with the strength of the sub.
This started well, gave me some background so I understood things even though I had not read the others. I also felt for Jordan, and liked Rhys. But something was missing...more depth in their interactions...there were lots of opportunities missed throughout this story and this lead to my very biggest pet hate as a reader-that of skipping time..days, weeks and months. This novella does that a lot, then tells me about how they have done scenes and Rhys' struggles, but seeing as that would have been a huge step in their relationship...and this is supposed to be a story ' about their relationship' all I get is the cliff notes!
In my experience with reading shorter stories of around 100-150 pages, I have had a real problem finding enough depth in the plot and characters. There have only been a couple that stood out in the shorter books...not this one though...this one goes in the very large pile of short stuff that missed it's opportunity to be really excellent...this author has the ability..I liked her style and if she only added another 5+ chapters with more content and showing instead of telling, I would have been a lot happier.
I seem to be giving up on many books in this genre at the moment, this kept me reading...but only just.
I've read many in the m/m genre now, everything from crime/mystery romance, to paranormal and bdsm. And I have to say I think I'm getting rather picky now, not to mention fed up with plots that sound great from the blurb then just don't match up to their potential. This was one of them. Now I haven't read the others in the series,but that has nothing to do with my problems with this novella.
I avoided the others because the reviews spoke mainly of rushed plots and I just didn't have a connection with the blurbs. However, this plot interested me as I am always intrigued by stories where the vulnerability of the Dom was interwoven with the strength of the sub.
This started well, gave me some background so I understood things even though I had not read the others. I also felt for Jordan, and liked Rhys. But something was missing...more depth in their interactions...there were lots of opportunities missed throughout this story and this lead to my very biggest pet hate as a reader-that of skipping time..days, weeks and months. This novella does that a lot, then tells me about how they have done scenes and Rhys' struggles, but seeing as that would have been a huge step in their relationship...and this is supposed to be a story ' about their relationship' all I get is the cliff notes!
In my experience with reading shorter stories of around 100-150 pages, I have had a real problem finding enough depth in the plot and characters. There have only been a couple that stood out in the shorter books...not this one though...this one goes in the very large pile of short stuff that missed it's opportunity to be really excellent...this author has the ability..I liked her style and if she only added another 5+ chapters with more content and showing instead of telling, I would have been a lot happier.
I seem to be giving up on many books in this genre at the moment, this kept me reading...but only just.
November 27, 2015
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This book was on my list of Most awaited ones since I read about Jordan’s assault and how hard he was taking Mike’s death. Jordan was in need of an “intervention” and Marchant decided that Rhys was the perfect person to help him to recover.
All Jordan wanted was to be left alone to mourn the loss of his lover and sub… He was dealing as best as he could and he didn’t need anyone interfering.
Rhys arrived in Jordan’s life like a hurricane! One moment Jordan was spending his days alone as he pleased, (ok, he wasn’t recovering from the assault as he should, but that was his problem, right?) and in the next moment, he was being bossed around by a sub!
I loved the way that Rhys took care of Jordan, making him eat, sleep and exercise… I especially loved how Rhys became the support and the confidant that Jordan really needed at the moment… Jordan finally had a reason to get out of bed every morning, and to leave the past behind…
Those two are funny, sassy, bossy and loving together and really, really hot!
Their story is a perfect addition to this series that I love! Don’t miss it.
This book was on my list of Most awaited ones since I read about Jordan’s assault and how hard he was taking Mike’s death. Jordan was in need of an “intervention” and Marchant decided that Rhys was the perfect person to help him to recover.
All Jordan wanted was to be left alone to mourn the loss of his lover and sub… He was dealing as best as he could and he didn’t need anyone interfering.
Rhys arrived in Jordan’s life like a hurricane! One moment Jordan was spending his days alone as he pleased, (ok, he wasn’t recovering from the assault as he should, but that was his problem, right?) and in the next moment, he was being bossed around by a sub!
I loved the way that Rhys took care of Jordan, making him eat, sleep and exercise… I especially loved how Rhys became the support and the confidant that Jordan really needed at the moment… Jordan finally had a reason to get out of bed every morning, and to leave the past behind…
Those two are funny, sassy, bossy and loving together and really, really hot!
Their story is a perfect addition to this series that I love! Don’t miss it.
June 8, 2016
~I received a free copy of this book to read for Inked Rainbow Reads in exchange for an honest review~
5 stars M/M
If you have read previous books in this series you know who Jordan is and how fun loving and always moving he is. Jordan and his sub Mike were attacked one night, Mike didn’t make it. Jordan is barely surviving, he is the shell of the man he used to be. Jordan’s friends can’t stand to see him like this anymore so Marchant hires Rhys to take care of him, bring him back to life. Jordan hates the idea but gives in because his friends make him. Rhys is actually really good for him and even Jordan can tell an improvement after a while. Rhys knew Mike and now he wants to know Jordan and help him. It was a long process but Rhys brings Jordan back to life and in the process falls in love with him and wants to be Jordan’s sub. Jordan isn’t ready for that and is letting Rhys go, until tragedy strikes once again. This was was a beautiful love story and I hope there is more to the series so we can see these guys again.
5 stars M/M
If you have read previous books in this series you know who Jordan is and how fun loving and always moving he is. Jordan and his sub Mike were attacked one night, Mike didn’t make it. Jordan is barely surviving, he is the shell of the man he used to be. Jordan’s friends can’t stand to see him like this anymore so Marchant hires Rhys to take care of him, bring him back to life. Jordan hates the idea but gives in because his friends make him. Rhys is actually really good for him and even Jordan can tell an improvement after a while. Rhys knew Mike and now he wants to know Jordan and help him. It was a long process but Rhys brings Jordan back to life and in the process falls in love with him and wants to be Jordan’s sub. Jordan isn’t ready for that and is letting Rhys go, until tragedy strikes once again. This was was a beautiful love story and I hope there is more to the series so we can see these guys again.
December 10, 2015
I love this series and every couple is unique. Of all the characters Frankie is my favorite, but Rhys is giving him a run for his money. His strong personality has Jordan questioning many times if he is truly a submissive. Of course Rhys is just what Jordan needs to get his life back together after the event that changed his life forever. Love the meddling of the other couples from previous books and the way they show they care.
January 14, 2016
More like 2.75
It was OK, nothing special, but it wasn't horrible.
The book skips time fairly quickly, but there's no sense of a connection between the men; no sense of intimacy. The friends are too much involved for no reason. I wish the author would have focused more on the couple and made that story more believable.
It was OK, nothing special, but it wasn't horrible.
The book skips time fairly quickly, but there's no sense of a connection between the men; no sense of intimacy. The friends are too much involved for no reason. I wish the author would have focused more on the couple and made that story more believable.
November 29, 2015
I enjoyed this. In fact, I enjoyed it enough and liked everybody in it to go back and read all the previous books. I had not previously because I'm not into BDSM and it's all set around a BDSM club. But the characters were strong enough and likeable enough for me to enjoy this book.
December 27, 2023
Another great book in this series.
Jordan’s journey was so sad through this and I’m glad that he had Rhys to help him heal and that they get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Jordan’s journey was so sad through this and I’m glad that he had Rhys to help him heal and that they get their HEA.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 12, 2016
3.75 stars
Great ending of the Frankie series ♡.
Great ending of the Frankie series ♡.
November 30, 2015
I love every book in this series but this one is the best. Definitely reading again. I love Sue Brown's writing!
April 3, 2016
3.75 stars
June 29, 2016
Jordan and Rhys is a cute m/m romance. There's talk of bdsm but not really any actual hard core scenes. Overall enjoyed this book.
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